Beer Sheva, Israel – A doctor at a field hospital for detained Palestinians on an Israeli army base in Sde Teiman has raised concerns over the appalling conditions and routine amputations due to handcuff injuries. The doctor’s exclusive report, detailed in Haaretz, sheds light on the health compromises and ethical violations faced by inmates at the Sde Teiman field hospital.
In a letter addressed to Israel’s attorney general and defense and health ministers, the doctor highlighted the detrimental impact of the conditions at the field hospital on the health of detainees, emphasizing the violation of medical ethics. The doctor expressed distress over the routine amputations required due to handcuff injuries, raising questions about the quality of care provided at the facility.
The report from Haaretz also revealed that detainees at the Sde Teiman field hospital are subjected to dehumanizing conditions, including being fed through straws, wearing diapers, and being constantly restrained, violating both medical ethics and the law. The doctor’s concerns point towards a systematic issue that goes against principles of medical care and human rights.
In response to the claims, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reaffirmed their commitment to operating within the law and treating detainees with dignity and respect. The IDF spokesperson emphasized the importance of following procedures and ensuring the safety and well-being of both detainees and medical staff at the facility.
Despite the IDF’s reassurances, a medical source with experience at the Sde Teiman field hospital corroborated the reports of detainees being held in constant restraints and shackles, raising further concerns about the quality of care provided. The source highlighted the challenges faced by medical staff in delivering appropriate treatment under the restrictive conditions at the facility.
The establishment of the Sde Teiman field hospital and detention facility following Hamas’ attacks has drawn attention to the treatment of Gazan detainees in Israeli military facilities. Reports from humanitarian organizations like Physicians for Human Rights-Israel have documented ethical failures and highlighted the need for improved care and conditions for detainees. Concerns raised by medical professionals and human rights advocates underscore the importance of upholding standards of care and respect for human rights in detention facilities.