The decision comes amid growing human rights warnings, as Abu Safiya is one of at least 14 doctors from Gaza held in Israeli prisons for over a year without charge. Naji Abbas, head of the prisoners and detainees department at Physicians for Human Rights, said the court claimed to base its ruling on “secret materials” inaccessible to Abu Safiya or his defense team. The court’s spokesperson declined to comment. Abbas criticized the legal mechanism, stating: “The message is clear: a doctor can be deprived of freedom indefinitely without charge and without authorities presenting evidence in open session.”

Defense lawyers and rights groups demand his immediate release, alleging he suffers assaults in prison and is denied adequate food. Israeli prison authorities deny these claims. Physicians for Human Rights reported Abu Safiya has been in solitary confinement for 13 days. He appeared via video link at last Wednesday’s hearing, showing noticeable weight loss.

The Israeli army alleges Abu Safiya is affiliated with Hamas, though no evidence has been presented. Gaza’s Health Ministry and Hamas categorically deny the accusation. Abu Safiya is known for his humanitarian stance, having refused to leave Kamal Adwan Hospital during Israeli evacuation orders in 2023, choosing instead to remain with dozens of newborns under his care during the genocide in Gaza.