Fears rising for Gaza doctor held by Israel for 200 days
Dr Hossam Abu Safiya, director of Gaza's Kamal Adwan Hospital, was arrested in late December after refusing repeated Israeli orders to leave the medical complex and its patients. He has since been held in an Israeli jail in 'extremely harsh and degrading conditions', said his son, Idrees Abu Safiya.
'The lawyer told us he has been subjected to verbal and physical abuse, humiliation and mistreatment throughout his detention,' the son told The National. 'My father now suffers from multiple health issues due to a lack of medical care and continuous torture in Israeli prisons."
The Palestinian paediatrician is being held in solitary confinement, with no sunlight or fresh air, his lawyer said. He is also being starved and has lost more than a third of his weight since being arrested, his son said.
He said Dr Abu Safiyah has sustained severe bruising to his face, head, neck and back from being physically assaulted, but the most pressing health concern he faces is his 'irregular and unstable heartbeat, a condition that could become fatal at any moment". His son says the doctor has been denied medical attention.
'The occupation authorities continue to deny him proper medication and refuse to provide the necessary treatment,' he told The National." He has not been examined by any medical specialists to this day."
Dr Abu Safiyah was arrested last year during a prolonged Israeli raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital, featuring ground assaults that left it without basic medical necessities and a siege that left patients and medical teams stranded.
Israeli bombing reduced many of the hospital's departments to rubble, including the intensive care unit – the only one in northern Gaza – as well as the maternity ward and neonatal unit.
Aside from being a lifeline for injured Gazans, the hospital also sheltered hundreds of displaced families. Anyone who stepped out into the hospital courtyard was 'immediately targeted', Dr Abu Safiyeh told The National in an interview last year.
The Palestinian doctor has been 'arbitrarily detained' for seven months, according to Amnesty International. It says he is being held under what it calls Israel's "repressive Unlawful Combatants Law", which allows indefinite detention without charge based on suspicion alone.
Israel has accused Dr Abu Safiya of being a terrorist and of "holding a rank" in Hamas, a claim his family denies.
'The army claims my father has ties to Hamas, a complete fabrication,' his son told The National. "My father is a doctor, committed solely to serving the Palestinian people through his humanitarian mission in medicine."
Experts have warned the targeted detention of medical workers is part of a wider campaign against Gaza's health care system.
'We have documented a significant number of arrests and forced disappearances among Gaza's medical staff,' Ghazi Al Majdalawi, a researcher at the Palestinian Centre for the Missing and Forcibly Disappeared, told The National. 'The evidence indicates a deliberate strategy by the Israeli military to dismantle Gaza's medical infrastructure.
'Doctors are being tortured, humiliated, denied legal counsel and cut off from their families,' he added. 'These acts constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
5 hours ago
- Zawya
Dubai Health, GE HealthCare to enhance Point-of-Care Ultrasound education, practice in MENA region
Dubai Health and GE HealthCare, a leading global medical technology and digital solutions innovator, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on enhancing Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) practices and co-developing innovative AI solutions to support clinical decision-making, ultimately enhancing patient care and outcomes across the UAE and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The collaboration combines Dubai Health's academic and innovation expertise with GE HealthCare's advanced technological capabilities to enhance medical education, strengthen clinical decision-making, and improve health outcomes throughout the UAE and the broader MENA region. The MoU will establish Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) as a POCUS Education Center of Excellence and a pioneer in Point-of-Care Ultrasound education across the MENA region. Key initiatives include: a 'Train-of-Trainer (TOT)' structured program to build capacity in certified facilitators and trainers. The Facilitator Training Program will also enhance the scalability and effectiveness of POCUS programme delivery and execution across a broader geographical region, enabling wider participation of attendees, students, and delegates. In addition, the collaboration will extend to the co-development of AI solutions through Dubai Health Innovations, which supports transformative solutions that enhance patient care, drive medical advancements, and improve health outcomes. This partnership will focus on the development and validation of emerging AI technologies in areas of mutual interest, such as radiology and computer vision, aiming to improve diagnostic accuracy, streamline clinical workflows, and facilitate early detection of medical conditions. Through this joint effort, both parties seek to foster innovation, accelerate adoption of cutting-edge AI tools, and contribute to the advancement of healthcare delivery in the region. Dr. Hanan Al Suwaidi, Acting Chief Academic Officer of Dubai Health and Provost of MBRU said, 'This collaboration reflects Dubai Health's commitment to delivering on our 'Patient First' promise through the integration of care, learning, and innovation to elevate healthcare standards. By building capacity in POCUS education and co-developing AI-powered solutions, we are empowering clinicians with next-generation technologies to improve patient outcomes.' President of GE HealthCare EAGM (Eurasian and African Growth Markets), Konstantinos Deligiannis, said, 'This MoU marks a pivotal moment for POCUS advancement in the MENA region. We are excited to partner with Dubai Health to build skills, accelerate knowledge transfer, and strengthen the local and regional healthcare expertise. By combining our advanced ultrasound technology with innovative AI solutions, we are committed to enhancing diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, ultimately contributing to the region's broader healthcare objectives.' Dr. Rasha Buhumaid, Vice Dean of Graduate Medical Education, Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine, and Programme Director of POCUS at MBRU, further commented, 'This partnership is a significant step toward realising our vision of positioning MBRU as a Centre of Excellence for Point-of-Care Ultrasound education. Through the Facilitator Training Programme and other initiatives, this collaboration enables us to strengthen the integration of POCUS into clinical practice, build sustainable expertise, and support better outcomes at the point of care and across the health system.' Professor Nabil Zary, Senior Director of the Institute of Learning at Dubai Health, also noted, 'Education is at the heart of sustainable healthcare transformation. This partnership with GE HealthCare enables us to deliver high-impact, evidence-based training in POCUS that not only equips clinicians with advanced skills but also fosters a culture of continuous learning and innovation.' The MoU between the two parties will be in effect for two years and is renewable by mutual agreement.
UAE Moments
6 hours ago
- UAE Moments
Indoor Mindfulness & Meditation Strategies for Long Summers
When the scorching heat outside feels like it's frying your soul (and your hair), it's time to turn the focus inward. Long Gulf summers might be brutal for beach days and outdoor adventures, but they're also the perfect excuse to finally start a mindfulness or meditation practice indoors — no sweat involved. Whether you're a seasoned meditator or just starting your wellness journey, these indoor strategies are your go-to toolkit for staying grounded, cool, and mentally refreshed all summer long. Here's your ultimate guide to indoor mindfulness and meditation strategies during the endless summer stretch, especially tailored for Gulf expats and residents battling those 45°C days. 1. Create Your Zen Den: A Chill Meditation Space at Home You don't need an entire room—just a cozy corner. Grab some floor cushions, light a few candles, add a calming scent (think lavender, frankincense, or oud if you're feeling regional), and voila! You've got a personal oasis away from the chaos (and heat). Bonus tip: Use blackout curtains and a small fan to make your space literally cooler. 2. Start With Guided Meditations (Because Silence Can Be Loud) Not everyone can jump straight into complete stillness—especially with your phone buzzing and the AC humming. Use apps like Calm, Insight Timer, or Headspace to guide you through 5–10 minute sessions. Many platforms also offer meditations specifically for stress, sleep, focus, and even cooling breath techniques. SEO Tip: 'Best meditation apps for Gulf residents' is a great keyword phrase to add to your bookmarks. 3. Practice Cooling Breathwork (Yes, That's a Thing) Breathing techniques like Sitali Pranayama are known for their cooling effects. Stick your tongue out like a taco, inhale through it, and exhale through your nose. It looks silly but feels amazing. This simple mindfulness breathing exercise can lower body temperature and anxiety—win-win! 4. Try Body Scans (Perfect for Siesta Hours) If you're feeling sluggish from the heat and can't focus, body scan meditations are ideal. Lie down, close your eyes, and slowly bring awareness to each part of your body. Apps can guide you through this or you can DIY with some soft ambient music. 5. Journaling: Mindfulness with a Pen Grab a journal and let it all out. Morning pages, gratitude lists, or simple 'how I'm feeling today' check-ins can keep you emotionally balanced and self-aware. Pair it with a cup of mint tea and boom—you're basically a walking wellness Pinterest board. 6. Try Walking Meditation… Indoors Pacing your living room might sound weird, but walking meditation helps connect mind and body while keeping you moving (without heatstroke). Walk slowly and intentionally, noticing the sensation of each step. Pro tip: Pair with a playlist of chill beats or nature sounds. 7. Incorporate Aromatherapy & Sound Healing Sound bowls, wind chimes, and soft gongs can enhance your practice. Don't have those? YouTube and Spotify have sound healing playlists galore. Add a diffuser with cooling essential oils like peppermint or eucalyptus to complete the sensory vibe. 8. Set a Mindfulness Routine That Matches Your Energy Summer burnout is real. Whether you're working remotely or staying inside to beat the sun, create a summer mindfulness routine that includes 5-minute check-ins, mid-day meditations, or even mindful meal prep. Consistency is key—not intensity. 9. Digital Detox: Mindfulness for the Scroll-Weary Challenge yourself to unplug. Turn off social media for an hour or a full day. Use that time to connect with yourself, meditate, stretch, or even just sit and sip something cool. Mindfulness during Gulf summer also means knowing when to rest your mind from the digital noise. 10. Group Zoom Meditations (Yes, They're a Thing!) Just because you're indoors doesn't mean you're alone. Join virtual meditation groups hosted by local wellness studios, international mindfulness teachers, or even wellness hubs in the Gulf like SEVA Experience Dubai, or Inner Seed Abu Dhabi. These sessions are usually donation-based or free—and they're a great way to stay socially connected while feeding your soul. 11. Mindful Movement That Doesn't Make You Sweat Forget high-intensity workouts—summer is the time to embrace slow yoga flows, yin yoga, or gentle stretching routines. YouTube is filled with 10- to 30-minute sessions that are low-impact and high-vibe. Add mindful breathing and boom: instant zen mode. 12. Mindful Screen Time (Netflix, But Make It Nourishing) Swap out intense thrillers or overstimulating content for something soothing. Think nature documentaries, calming podcasts, or even ambient TV like slow living vlogs or cooking ASMR. It's all about conscious entertainment that helps you wind down, not hype up. 13. Cool Down with Mindful Eating Hot summer days can mess with your appetite or have you grabbing junk just to cope. Try mindful eating by slowing down, savoring flavors, and really paying attention to how your food makes you feel. Seasonal cooling foods like cucumber, yogurt, and watermelon? Chef's kiss 🍉 Let's be real: when you're stuck indoors while the world outside sizzles at 45+ degrees, your mental health can start to feel just as fried. But creating a few simple, daily moments of mindfulness can totally change your summer. You don't need a retreat in Bali—you just need your breath, a quiet corner, and maybe a fan. So go on, take a deep breath, light that incense, and let the heat be your cue to chill from the inside out.
Middle East Eye
6 hours ago
- Middle East Eye
'Biggest disaster': Gaza infants' lives at risk amid fuel shortages
Palestinian infants reliant on incubators in Gaza are fighting for their lives amid a critical fuel shortage, exacerbated by Israel's increasingly stringent blockade on aid and essential supplies. For several days, hospitals and humanitarian agencies in Gaza have issued urgent appeals for international intervention to secure fuel deliveries, as shortages continue to paralyse vital services for over two million Palestinians. Multiple healthcare centres have warned that operations may grind to a halt, with Israel maintaining restrictions on fuel entering the besieged territory, further straining an already overwhelmed healthcare system. Mohammed Tabaja, head of the paediatric ward at al-Helou Hospital in Gaza City, said the facility is '100 per cent dependent on the generator'. His department is responsible for the intensive care of newborns weighing less than 1.5 kilograms, as well as infants suffering from oxygen deprivation and congenital abnormalities, all of whom require uninterrupted electricity. New MEE newsletter: Jerusalem Dispatch Sign up to get the latest insights and analysis on Israel-Palestine, alongside Turkey Unpacked and other MEE newsletters 'We have a problem in the nursery ward: there is no uninterruptible power supply (UPS). The motor shuts down every two hours due to the fuel shortage. When that happens, the electricity cuts out,' he explained, noting that the hospital currently relies entirely on generators. 'This impacts the babies' lives, as we must restart the ventilators and CPAP [continuous positive airway pressure] machines, all of which require electricity. We've been requesting a UPS for three months, but there are no batteries available in Gaza,' he told MEE. Incubators in the ward are still operating, however, the paediatric department is severely overcrowded, with 12 incubators used for at least 22 cases - an occupancy rate exceeding 180 percent (MEE/Ahmed Dremly) Tabaja said that while the incubators in the ward remain operational for now, the department is severely overcrowded and operating beyond capacity, with 12 incubators being used for at least 22 cases, an occupancy rate of more than 180 percent. The paediatric specialist notes a significant increase in premature births and underweight infants as a consequence of the ongoing war. He explained that the extreme stress of the situation has led to growing levels of malnutrition among pregnant women, resulting in a higher incidence of premature deliveries. 'The department faces persistent issues with oxygen, air, and electricity supplies, all of which directly affect the lives of the children. Last month and the month before, we lost infants due to these shortages,' he said. 'Our fear is that we will reach the point where there's no electricity' - Mohammed Tabaja, head paediatric, al-Helou Hospital 'Fuel is critical, as electricity is not available 24 hours a day. We do not have an oxygen generator and instead rely on manually operated oxygen cylinders. "This places an enormous burden on staff and creates further shortages. If a cylinder runs out, it could endanger a child's life,' he added. Dr Ziad al-Masry, a fellow paediatrician at al-Helou Hospital, warned that the lives of 22 infants are currently at risk due to the fuel shortage, which has caused power outages that disrupt artificial respiration and modern monitoring systems. 'Without this equipment, caring for the children becomes extremely difficult - and in some cases, impossible - as many are directly connected to ventilators,' he said. In a joint statement issued on Sunday, municipal authorities in central and southern Gaza announced the suspension of essential public services due to what they described as 'the complete interruption of fuel' required to operate vital equipment. The halted services include 'water well operations, sanitation, waste collection, rubble removal, and the use of heavy machinery to open roads. 'The occupation's continued refusal to allow the entry of fuel, despite repeated appeals, has brought municipal services to a standstill, even as local authorities attempt to maintain a minimum level of operations under extraordinary circumstances,' the statement concluded. Manual intervention and lack of aid Last week, the UN confirmed that Israel permitted a limited shipment of fuel into Gaza, the first in over four months. However, the 75,000-litre delivery was far from sufficient, failing to cover even a single day's needs. Moreover, Israel has been severely limiting the flow of life-saving aid delivery into the besieged enclave - including nutritional relief and medical supplies. Why Israel is waging war on Palestinian children Read More » Tabaja said that the paediatric ward is facing critical shortages of oxygen, compressed air, electricity, infant formula, and nappies. 'The Ministry of Health used to provide eight nappies per child per day. Now we receive just one or two, meaning we're forced to keep a child in the same nappy for 24 hours," he explained. "Our fear is that we will reach the point where there's no electricity supply for the department at all, and that would be the biggest disaster," he added. Masry echoed the urgent need for essential supplies to enter Gaza. He stated that repeated requests for fuel had been made to international organisations, including Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders), but to no avail. 'The siege has only worsened over the past two months. No fuel or baby formula has reached our hospital in nearly four months.' Due to the fuel crisis, the paediatric unit has been forced to increase staffing and rely on manual respiratory support to keep newborns alive, a method he stressed is not a substitute for mechanical ventilation. "We are relying on manual intervention until fuel is restored, and this has had a significant impact on the lives of the infants."
