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The release of Mohammad Abu Salmiya, the director of Gaza’s largest hospital Al-Shifa, after more than seven months in Israeli detention without charges has sparked controversy and tensions. Abu Salmiya was taken into custody during an Israeli raid while evacuating patients, with Israeli officials accusing Hamas of operating from within the hospital. His release was met with criticism from Israeli politicians, including accusations of “security negligence” and “moral failure.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant both distanced themselves from the decision to release Abu Salmiya, prompting calls for elections from former war cabinet member Benny Gantz. Abu Salmiya claimed he and other detainees, including medical workers, were subjected to torture during their detention.
The release of Abu Salmiya highlighted the mistreatment of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody, as human rights groups called for the release of other detained medical workers in Gaza. The Israeli Supreme Court is currently considering a petition to close the army barracks turned jail, Sde Teiman, where many Gazan detainees are held.
The controversy surrounding Abu Salmiya’s release has exposed divisions among Israeli officials regarding detainee policies and raised questions about the treatment of Palestinian prisoners. The health ministry in Gaza has called for the release of all medical workers detained by Israeli forces, emphasizing the need to protect those providing healthcare in the region.
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