Israel pushes back on growing calls to free Gaza terror doctor

Israel is refuting international calls for the release of Hussam Abu Safiya, director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza, whom it identifies as a Hamas colonel. Abu Safiya was arrested on December 27, 2024, under Israel's Unlawful Combatants Law, after Israeli forces found the hospital was being used as a Hamas terror center, with over 240 terrorists located there, including some who participated in the October 7 massacre. Following claims of torture by his attorney, Nasser Odeh, organizations like Amnesty International and U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez demanded his release. Israel's Permanent Mission to the UN in Geneva stated that Abu Safiya "enabled Hamas terrorist activity against Israeli forces" and exploited his position to redirect humanitarian aid for terrorist purposes. They also deny claims of his deteriorating health, asserting he is under continuous medical supervision. NGO Monitor uncovered a photo of Abu Safiya in a Hamas uniform, with its founder Prof. Gerald M. Steinberg stating, "The massive and highly orchestrated propaganda campaign for Abu Safiya highlights his importance to Hamas and its allies."