Israeli forces arrested Dr. Mohammed al-Haj, a prominent Palestinian physician widely known as the 'doctor of the poor,' at a military checkpoint in the occupied West Bank on Thursday, according to his family and medical officials.
Arrest at Hawara Checkpoint
The 58-year-old doctor was detained at the Hawara checkpoint south of Nablus while traveling to treat patients in a remote village. Witnesses said soldiers pulled him from his vehicle, blindfolded him, and took him to an undisclosed location. His family reported that they have not received any information about his whereabouts or charges.
Doctor's Humanitarian Work
Dr. al-Haj has dedicated his career to providing free medical care to impoverished Palestinians in the West Bank. He runs a mobile clinic that serves over 200 patients per month in areas with limited access to healthcare. Colleagues describe him as a tireless advocate for health equity, often working 16-hour days.
According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, Dr. al-Haj has treated more than 10,000 patients since 2010, many of whom are Bedouin communities and refugees. His arrest has disrupted medical services for hundreds of vulnerable individuals.
Condemnation and Calls for Release
The Palestinian Authority condemned the arrest, calling it a violation of international law and medical neutrality. Dr. Mustafa Barghouti, a Palestinian physician and politician, said: 'This is an outrageous attack on healthcare. Dr. al-Haj is a healer, not a security threat. Israel must release him immediately.'
Human rights groups, including Physicians for Human Rights Israel, have urged the Israeli military to disclose his status. The International Committee of the Red Cross has also expressed concern.
An Israeli military spokesperson stated that the arrest was based on 'security reasons,' but provided no details. The arrest has drawn international attention, with the World Health Organization calling for his protection under humanitarian law.
Impact on Healthcare
The arrest has left a critical gap in medical services. The mobile clinic Dr. al-Haj operated has suspended operations indefinitely. Local health officials warn that patients with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension, are at risk without his care.
This incident is part of a broader pattern of restrictions on Palestinian healthcare workers in the occupied territories. Over the past year, at least 15 medical personnel have been detained by Israeli forces, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.
