The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed concern about the fate of the head of Gaza City’s al-Shifa Hospital, Muhammad Abu Salmiya, who was detained by Israel this week.
On Friday, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced that the head of the largest hospital in the embattled Palestinian territory, along with five other healthcare professionals, was apprehended on Wednesday during their participation in a United Nations mission aimed at evacuating patients.
“Three individuals from the Palestine Red Crescent Society and three from the Ministry of Health were taken into custody,” stated the WHO.
As of now, reports indicate that two out of the six individuals have been released. However, the well-being of the remaining four healthcare professionals, including the director of Al-Shifa hospital, remains unknown, according to the statement. The World Health Organization
The WHO has urged for the full observance of their legal and human rights during detention.
In response, a spokesperson for the Israeli army revealed on Saturday that Abu Salmiya, the detained hospital director, is undergoing questioning. Doron Spielman, the Israeli military spokesperson, asserted that the interrogation is focused on Abu Salmiya’s role as the head of a hospital allegedly linked to a broader terror network. Spielman questioned how Abu Salmiya could be unaware of activities transpiring within the hospital, citing hostages captured on CCTV within the medical facility.