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Written question asked by Lord Alderdice (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 6 January 2025, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 20 January 2025. It was answered by Lord Collins of Highbury (Labour) on Monday, 13 January 2025 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Hussam Abu Safiya

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Israel on the safety and release of Dr Hussam Abu Safiyeh, director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza; and what representations they have made to facilitate him to re-institute emergency medical facilities.

Answer

We are concerned by the reports of the IDF operation at Kamal Adwan hospital, and the reported detention of Dr Hussam Abu Safiya and others. In recent weeks, the Minister for the Middle East raised this case, along with the wider need to ensure healthcare facilities in northern Gaza are protected, and to enable WHO and ICRC access, with both Israel's Ambassador to the UK, and Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Haskel. Israel must allow medical staff to carry out their work unimpeded, and to travel around Gaza as needed. On 27 December, the Minister for the Middle East made it clear to Israel's government that the situation in Northern Gaza cannot continue and raised our serious concern about repeated strikes on Kamal Adwan hospital, and the safety of civilians and medical workers there.

Furthermore as the Minister for the Middle East reiterated on the 8th of January, Israel must urgently clarify the reasons for detaining health workers in Gaza, including Hassam Abu Safiya and Mohammed Hamouda, to ensure Gazans have access to effective healthcare and that civilians are protected at all costs.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL3707
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Health services Gaza Abu Safiya, Hussam
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk