A faction of six progressive members of the United States Congress has issued a joint statement strongly condemning the Israeli regime's treatment of Palestinian healthcare workers, drawing specific attention to the case of Gaza physician Hussam Abu Safia, who has been held in detention since 2024.

The Tuesday statement highlights the systematic targeting and detention of medical personnel during the ongoing military campaign in Gaza. The document was signed by Representatives Rashida Tlaib, Ilhan Omar, Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, Summer Lee, Pramila Jayapal, and Delia Ramirez.

According to the lawmakers, the Israeli regime has allegedly dismantled the healthcare infrastructure in Palestine, resulting in the deaths of at least 1,700 medical professionals and the destruction of numerous hospitals. The statement further claims that hundreds of healthcare workers have been arbitrarily detained, with at least 16 physicians reportedly enduring inhumane conditions.

Among those detained is Dr. Abu Safia, whose legal representation alleges he has been subjected to severe abuses, including torture, sleep deprivation, and physical beatings. Abu Safia was apprehended by soldiers in December 2024 after reportedly refusing to abandon Kamal Adwan Hospital, and to date, no formal charges or trials have been initiated against him.

While various human rights organizations and United Nations officials argue that the systematic destruction of medical facilities is part of a broader strategy to deprive Palestinians of essential services, Israeli officials maintain that such facilities are targeted due to their alleged military use by armed groups—assertions that have frequently been challenged by independent forensic investigations and rights monitors.

Source: www.aljazeera.com