In an alarming development, Hamas, the Palestinian Islamist political organization and militant group, has voiced out against the arrest of the director of Al-Shifa Hospital and his colleagues. The incident has sparked a wave of concern about the impact on healthcare services and the welfare of patients at Al-Shifa, the largest medical complex in the Gaza Strip.

Doctor Mohammad Abu Salmiya, along with several senior doctors from Al-Shifa Hospital, were reportedly taken into custody by Israeli forces on Thursday. The arrest comes in light of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has been escalating since the militants’ attacks on October 7.

As the war enters its 48th day, the focus has shifted to negotiations between the warring sides regarding the release of hostages taken by Hamas during their attack. An agreement was reached on Wednesday for the release of 50 hostages, including women and children, in exchange for a four-day truce.

In its statement, Hamas has called upon the International Red Cross and other international organizations to take action towards ensuring the release of the detained hospital staff. The organization’s appeal to international bodies emphasizes the gravity of the situation and the need for external intervention.

The arrest of the hospital staff, coupled with the ongoing conflict, has put a strain on the healthcare services in Gaza, affecting the well-being of patients at Al-Shifa Hospital. This incident underscores the need for immediate action and intervention from international bodies.