US lawmakers call on Israel to release imprisoned doctor Hussam Abu Safia

What the report says

A group of six progressive members of the US Congress has issued a statement calling on Israel to release Palestinian doctor Hussam Abu Safia and condemning what they describe as the abuse and detention of Palestinian healthcare workers. Al Jazeera reported that the statement, released on Tuesday, was signed by Representatives Rashida Tlaib, Ilhan Omar, Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, Summer Lee, Pramila Jayapal and Delia Ramirez.

According to the article, Abu Safia has been held in Israeli detention since December 2024, after Israeli forces arrested him in Gaza when he and other medical staff reportedly declined to evacuate Kamal Adwan Hospital. The lawmakers’ statement highlights broader attacks on Gaza’s health system and says Palestinian doctors, nurses and paramedics have been killed or detained during the war.

The report says lawyers for Abu Safia allege that he has faced mistreatment in custody, including torture, sleep deprivation and beatings. It also notes that no charges have been filed and that he has not had a trial. Israeli officials have said they target medical facilities because Palestinian armed groups use them, a claim rights groups and other observers have disputed.

The case has become part of wider criticism of Israel’s conduct in Gaza, where hospitals and medical infrastructure have suffered extensive damage. The lawmakers’ intervention adds political pressure in the US and reflects growing attention from rights organizations and UN-related voices on the treatment of Palestinian medical workers.