Gaza hospital chief in Israeli prison reported in critical condition

Elyas Abu Safia, a resident of the West Bank town of Qalqilya, reported that his father, Hussam Abu Safia, is experiencing severe respiratory distress and loss of speech after more than 555 days of continuous detention in an Israeli prison. According to the family, Hussam was arrested in early 2025 on security‑related charges and has remained in custody without a trial, despite repeated requests for medical evaluation. The family’s statement, released to local media on Tuesday, said that Hussam can barely breathe and is unable to speak, conditions they attribute to inadequate medical care and prolonged confinement.

Human rights organizations have previously highlighted concerns over the treatment of long‑term detainees in Israel’s security system, noting that limited access to healthcare can exacerbate existing illnesses. Israeli prison officials have not commented on the specific health claims, but a spokesperson for the prison service reiterated that all inmates receive “regular medical monitoring” in accordance with national regulations. The Abu Safia family’s appeal underscores ongoing disputes over detainee rights and the transparency of health assessments within the Israeli penal system.