In violation of international laws and treaties that safeguard doctors during conflicts, the Israeli army treats healthcare workers in Gaza as legitimate targets. Using tactics such as threats, intimidation, and even targeted killings, the occupation seeks to silence Gaza's medical professionals. This assault on doctors is coupled with the deliberate destruction of Gaza’s healthcare system, targeting hospitals and medical infrastructure to completely disrupt operations.

Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, is a prime example of this resilience. Despite severe shortages in medical supplies and personnel, he continued to serve approximately 150,000 residents, often appealing to the international community for help, but with little response. His commitment made him a symbol of resistance, but it also made him a target for the occupation.

On October 5, the Israeli army began a bombardment of the Jabalia refugee camp, surrounding Kamal Adwan Hospital and halting medical assistance. Despite being injured by the occupation’s forces, Dr. Abu Safiya refused to abandon his mission, continuing to care for the wounded. He stated, "My blood is not more valuable than that of Palestinians," illustrating his unwavering dedication to saving lives under dire circumstances.
Dr. Abu Safiya's image became an icon of resistance after a photograph captured him walking through the rubble of his destroyed hospital, facing Israeli tanks with nothing but his white coat. His resilience in the face of constant bombardment and violence served as a testament to the spirit of Gaza's doctors, who continue to fight against overwhelming odds to provide medical care.

Following the destruction of Kamal Adwan Hospital, the occupation detained Dr. Abu Safiya and dozens of others under the pretext of suspected Hamas affiliation. This justified the arrest and further attempts to erase him from public memory, but instead, he became a symbol of the indefatigable spirit of Gaza’s medical professionals, continuing his work despite everything the occupation threw at him.