‘We want to know he’s safe’ — family awaits Israeli response on detained Gaza doctor after court order
DUBAI: The son of detained Gaza hospital director Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya said the family was “anxiously awaiting” Israel’s response to concerns over the doctor’s deteriorating condition in custody.
Elias Abu Safiya’s remarks came after the Israeli Supreme Court on Sunday ordered the government to respond within two days to allegations that Abu Safiya has been subjected to torture and is facing life-threatening deterioration in prison.
The court instructed the state to submit by Tuesday its response to a petition filed by Physicians for Human Rights Israel in April. The petition sought the immediate release of 14 Palestinian doctors held without charge, while specifically addressing serious allegations concerning Abu Safiya’s physical and psychological state.
Speaking to Arab News, Elias said the family hoped the court order would finally compel Israeli authorities to disclose his father’s condition after more than 18 months in detention without charge.
