Dr. Ahmed Muhanna, a senior anaesthesiologist and emergency care consultant from Gaza, was released after 22 months in Israeli prisons and detention centers, having been detained in December 2023. Upon his return, he observed significant destruction across Gaza and at his hospital, al-Awda. He reported that during his detention, inmates were isolated from external information.
Healthcare System Impact
Muhanna stated that the healthcare system in Gaza faces ongoing challenges despite a ceasefire. He reported that al-Awda Hospital had lost staff, medical equipment, and medicine. According to Muhanna, 75 colleagues from al-Awda were killed during his detention. Healthcare Workers Watch reported that 1,200 Palestinian healthcare workers have been killed and 384 detained by Israel's military since October 7, 2023.
The World Health Organization (WHO) stated that 77% of the population, including 100,000 children, experience high levels of acute food insecurity. Muhanna and his team continue to treat severely malnourished children.
International human rights organizations, including a UN commission, have concluded that Israel has committed genocide in Gaza, citing the blocking of humanitarian aid and the destruction of the healthcare system. The UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) reported that 94% of Gaza's hospitals have been damaged or destroyed. Muhanna noted that Gaza currently has no functional MRI machines and only one CT scanner, affecting diagnostic capabilities.
The situation is further complicated by Israel's decision to revoke the licenses of 37 international non-governmental organizations (INGOs), including Médicins Sans Frontières (MSF), operating in Gaza and the West Bank. This action may impact the delivery of medical aid.
Detention Experience
Dr. Muhanna stated that during his detention, he experienced torture, humiliation, and deprivation of food and medical treatment. He was held at Sde Teiman detention center and later at a facility in al-Naqab. He reported being blindfolded and tied for 24 days at Sde Teiman. During a transfer, he stated he was beaten, resulting in a broken rib, and denied painkillers. Muhanna described a lack of medical services in detention and stated he witnessed two deaths due to insufficient medical care, which he considered preventable. He also reported minimal food and restricted access to bathrooms. Muhanna was never formally charged.
Post-Release and Outlook
Following his release, Muhanna immediately resumed work, noting a lack of time to process his experiences. He expressed concern for the future of his children in Gaza, citing the extensive damage and absence of recreational spaces. He reunited with his mother, wife, and children, describing the reunion as a moment of happiness despite the overwhelming challenges.