Israeli Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu has ordered an immediate investigation into the release of Mohammad Abu-Salmiya, director of the Shifa hospital in Gaza, along with other Palestinian detainees. This decision has stirred controversy and criticism from both the majority and the opposition. Netanyahu's office stated that the release followed arguments in the Supreme Court against detention in the Sde Teiman center, and the identities of those released are determined independently by security forces based on professional assessments.
Palestinian sources reported that Abu-Salmiya, after seven months of detention, was released along with approximately 55 other Palestinian prisoners captured by the IDF after October 7, during the war in the Gaza Strip. All detainees were returned to Gaza.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant's office claimed no prior knowledge of the release of the director of Al-Shifa hospital. This follows harsh criticism from some ministers who demanded clarification on the release. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli were among those who voiced strong objections, questioning the rationale behind releasing individuals associated with Hamas activities.
The Israeli army reported a salvo of '20 projectiles' fired from the southern Gaza Strip towards Israeli territory, an attack claimed by the armed wing of the Palestinian group Islamic Jihad. The al-Quds brigades announced they had 'struck' Israeli localities around the Gaza Strip with rockets in response to what they termed 'crimes of the Zionist enemy against our Palestinian people.' The Israeli army noted that some projectiles were intercepted while others fell in southern Israel, causing no injuries.
The release of Abu-Salmiya and other prisoners has sparked significant debate within the Israeli government. Former War Cabinet Minister Benny Gantz criticized the decision, calling it an operational and moral error. The release has also raised questions about the use of hospitals for military purposes by Hamas, which Israel accuses but Hamas denies.
- The release of Palestinian prisoners, including the director of Al-Shifa hospital, has been met with mixed reactions. Some ministers have called for immediate explanations and accountability, with National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir suggesting that the head of the Shin Bet should be dismissed.
- The Israeli army is also investigating the deaths of several Palestinians in custody since October 7, following claims by Palestinian associations that detainees, including a doctor from Al-Shifa, died due to 'torture' and lack of treatment. The army has stated it was not informed of such incidents.
- The conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to escalate, with both sides suffering significant casualties. The recent projectile attacks from Gaza and the subsequent Israeli artillery response highlight the ongoing tensions and the fragile nature of the ceasefire agreements.
