Palestinian physician Dr. Hussam Idris Abu Safiya, who remains imprisoned by Israeli occupation authorities, has been awarded the 2026 Arab Doctor Award in the "Medicine of Resilience" category in recognition of his medical and humanitarian efforts in the Gaza Strip.

The award was presented during the 65th session of the Council of Arab Health Ministers, held Tuesday at the Arab League headquarters in Cairo, Egypt.

Palestinian Health Minister Majed Abu Ramadan received the award on Abu Safiya's behalf from Egyptian Health and Population Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, who chairs the Council of Arab Health Ministers.

Palestine nominated Abu Safiya in recognition of his dedication to providing medical care under Israel's devastating military assault on Gaza, particularly his efforts to keep healthcare services operating despite relentless attacks, severe shortages of essential medical supplies and the collapse of much of the enclave's health infrastructure.

The ceremony was attended by several Arab health ministers, Palestine's Permanent Representative to the Arab League, Ambassador Muhannad al-Aklouk, and representatives of the Arab League's General Secretariat.

Abu Safiya became an international symbol of medical dedication and resilience during Israel's military offensive in northern Gaza, where he continued serving as director of Kamal Adwan Hospital despite repeated Israeli attacks, widespread destruction and increasingly desperate humanitarian conditions.

He remained at his post as doctors and medical personnel struggled to save lives amid shortages of medicines, medical equipment, fuel and other essential supplies, while Israeli military operations and restrictions on humanitarian access further undermined the healthcare system.

On Dec. 27, 2024, Israeli occupation forces arrested Abu Safiya during a military raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital, forcing the facility out of service.

His arrest came as northern Gaza's healthcare system was collapsing under Israel's military assault, the blockade and repeated attacks on hospitals and medical personnel.

Abu Safiya remains in Israeli custody following his arrest. According to the information provided in the award announcement, he is being held under administrative detention without formal charges or trial.

His continued imprisonment has drawn renewed attention to the treatment of Palestinian medical personnel and the dangers faced by healthcare workers attempting to provide lifesaving services during Israel's war on Gaza.

The Arab Doctor Award recognizes Abu Safiya's professional career and humanitarian commitment while highlighting the courage of Palestinian doctors who continued treating patients despite bombardment, displacement, shortages and the destruction of medical infrastructure.

His recognition also serves as a reminder of the thousands of Palestinian patients and medical workers who have endured the devastating consequences of Israel's assault on Gaza, where the healthcare system has suffered extensive destruction.

The award comes amid continuing calls for the protection of Palestinian healthcare workers, accountability for attacks on medical facilities and the release of detained medical personnel. (ILKHA)