UPDATE: As of today, December 27, 2025, it has been exactly one year since Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya was abducted by Israeli forces from the Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza. Advocates are urgently demanding the release of Dr. Abu Safiya and over 360 health workers still imprisoned by Israeli occupation forces.
On this grim anniversary, voices from around the globe are calling for action. Dr. Yipeng Ge, a member of Doctors Against Genocide, stated on social media, “Free Hussam Abu Safiya. Free them all.” This sentiment was echoed by activist Petra Schurenhofer, who emphasized the inhumane conditions faced by Dr. Abu Safiya during his year-long detention.
Dr. Abu Safiya, the 52-year-old director of Kamal Adwan Hospital, was taken on December 27, 2024, amid ongoing Israeli military operations that have devastated healthcare facilities across the region. According to reports, the IDF alleged, without evidence, that the hospital was a Hamas command center. Tragically, during a previous attack, Dr. Abu Safiya’s 15-year-old son was killed in a drone strike.
Reports from credible sources indicate that Dr. Abu Safiya has suffered severe mistreatment while in custody, including torture and medical neglect. He was initially held at Sde Teiman prison, known for its harsh conditions, before being transferred to Ofer Prison in the West Bank. Activists stress that he has not been charged with any crimes and remain concerned for his health and safety.
“Save my husband before it is too late,” pleaded Albina Abu Safiya, his wife, highlighting the emotional toll on families of those detained. “His only ‘crime’ was saving the wounded and tending to the wounds of children.”
The United Nations has condemned the ongoing violence against healthcare personnel, with an independent commission reporting that Israel has intentionally targeted Gaza’s healthcare system as part of a broader military strategy. This includes the destruction of nearly all hospitals in Gaza due to relentless attacks since October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of over 1,500 Palestinian health workers.
Israeli authorities face increasing scrutiny and allegations of war crimes, including a genocide case filed by South Africa at the International Court of Justice. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant are wanted by the International Criminal Court for alleged crimes against humanity.
As the world marks this tragic anniversary, advocates urge the public to rally for the release of Dr. Abu Safiya and all detainees. The call to action is clear: “Don’t forget him. And don’t stop calling for his release.”
With the situation in Gaza continuously evolving, it remains imperative for global citizens to stay informed and engaged. What happens next could change the course of lives still held in captivity.
