Israel released the chief of Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza Strip, Mohammad Abu Salmiya, after more than seven months of detention, where he had been captured during an attempt to evacuate patients from the hospital. He was accused of being involved in Hamas operations at the hospital, although no charges were made public. His release led to differing reactions, with human rights groups criticizing his prolonged detention without charge, while Israeli officials condemned the decision to release him.
Dr. Abu Salmiya, visibly frail, described extreme torture during his detention, including broken fingers and repeated beatings. The Israeli Prison Service denied his claims, stating that prisoners are detained according to the law. The release of Dr. Abu Salmiya was attributed to a lack of space in detention centers by the Shin Bet, Israel’s domestic intelligence agency.
Israeli politicians criticized the government for the release, with some labeling it as a security negligence. The release comes amid increased tensions in Gaza, with at least 20 rockets fired towards Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that the fighting may be winding down, but stated that they would continue to eliminate Hamas’s terrorist army.
More than 9,600 Palestinians are held in Israeli prisons, with many detained without charges. The raid on Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza remains a controversial issue, with Gazans perceiving it as a disregard for Palestinian life, while Israelis view it as Hamas’s exploitation of civilian infrastructure. The release of Dr. Abu Salmiya has further highlighted the deep-rooted tensions and complexities in the region.
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