UPDATE: A senior paediatrician in London, Dr. Ellen Kriesels, has been referred to a disciplinary tribunal by the General Medical Council (GMC) after publicly defending Hamas on social media. This developing situation raises significant concerns about her professional conduct and the implications for her medical practice.
Dr. Kriesels, who works at Whittington Hospital in North London, has sparked outrage with her controversial online statements. In posts made in August, she expressed support for Hamas, labeling it as a political party rather than a terrorist organization. She stated, “Do not whitewash the murder of Hamas members. They are… oppressed resistance fighters. NOT terrorists.” Her remarks have drawn widespread condemnation, particularly from the Jewish community.
In a series of tweets, Dr. Kriesels criticized Jewish perspectives on the ongoing conflict, claiming that many Jews promote a narrative of victimhood. She stated, “Jewish supremacy is the ideology at the root of all this evil,” further inflaming tensions. Her rhetoric has led to her participation in pro-Palestine protests, where she was photographed holding an Israeli flag adorned with inflammatory messages.
The GMC’s referral comes amid escalating scrutiny of Dr. Kriesels’ behavior, which has already resulted in her removal from her position at the hospital. A tribunal hearing is scheduled for November 14, 2023, to determine whether she will be allowed to continue practicing medicine. This decision could have lasting implications for her career and the reputation of the healthcare institution.
A spokesperson for Whittington NHS Health Trust stated, “We can confirm that we have heard the concerns raised about one of our employees. The employee concerned is not currently scheduled to be working at the Trust.” The Trust emphasized that it prioritizes the care of the local community and does not endorse discriminatory views expressed by its staff.
The GMC has declined to provide additional information regarding the tribunal proceedings, emphasizing the confidentiality of the internal management issue. As this case unfolds, it highlights the ongoing tension surrounding freedom of speech and professional accountability in the medical field.
The emotional impact of these events is palpable, as they resonate deeply within communities affected by the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As the hearing date approaches, all eyes will be on the GMC’s decision, which could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops. For more news, click here to sign up for our free daily newsletter.
