WHO calls on Israel to release detained director of Gaza hospital

Germany has called on Israel to grant the International Red Cross access to the director of Gaza's Kamal Adwan Hospital, Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, who has been detained since December 27.

The German government insisted that he be treated in accordance with international standards, granted access to legal support, and allowed contact with the Red Cross. However, Germany did not demand his release.

Dr Abu Safiya's detention followed a raid by Israeli forces on the hospital, which remains non-operational. The World Health Organization (WHO) also echoed calls for his release, with WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stressing the urgent need for hospitals and healthcare professionals to be protected in Gaza. Tedros reiterated that the safety and well-being of Dr. Abu Safiya have remained unclear since his arrest, and the hospital's continued closure exacerbates the humanitarian crisis in the region.

The detention of Dr Abu Safiya and the ongoing closure of Kamal Adwan Hospital come amidst Israel's continued military operations in Gaza, which have led to the deaths of more than 45,800 people since October 2023. Calls for a cease-fire and an end to attacks on healthcare facilities continue, with the International Criminal Court (ICC) having issued arrest warrants for Israeli officials over alleged war crimes in Gaza.