7 July 2026

SDLP Foyle MP Colum Eastwood has called for the immediate release of Dr Hussam Abu Safiya and said the Israeli Government must be held accountable for human rights abuses in Gaza.

It comes after reports detailing the condition of Dr Abu Safiya following 18 months in Israeli detention without trial.  

On Sunday, four-month-old Palestinian baby Ahmad Maarouf Zaid died after his family was prevented from reaching an ambulance at an Israeli checkpoint.

Foyle MP Colum Eastwood said:

“These latest reports from Gaza show that the Israeli Government continues to inflict horrific suffering on Palestinians despite the existence of a ceasefire agreement. The reported treatment of Dr Hussam Abu Safiya, who has been detained without charge or trial for 18 months, is deeply disturbing. They point to serious human rights abuses that cannot be ignored.

“To prevent a four-month-old baby from reaching urgent medical treatment, leading to his death, defies belief. The idea that anyone could show such cruelty to an innocent child in desperate need of help should shock us all.

“Dr Hussam Abu Safiya should be released immediately. It is clear there are grave concerns for his life and I call on the UK Government and the wider international community to intervene and secure his release.

“The Israeli Government cannot continue to act with impunity. It must be held to account for alleged human rights abuses and international law must be upheld before more innocent lives are lost.”