An NHS doctor has been suspended for 15 months pending an inquiry into allegations of antisemitic social media posts, the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) has ruled.
Dr Rahmeh Aladwan, a British Palestinian trainee in trauma and orthopaedics, faces claims that she posted content justifying terrorism, denying sexual violence, and expressing support for proscribed groups including Hamas and Palestine Action.
The General Medical Council (GMC) launched an investigation after complaints from the Jewish Medical Association UK and the Campaign Against Antisemitism. The GMC's counsel, Emma Gilsenan, told the MPTS that Aladwan allegedly referred to the Royal Free Hospital as a 'Jewish supremacy cesspit' and doxed colleagues who raised concerns.
Aladwan's lawyer, Kevin Saunders, argued the posts constituted legitimate political speech and denied racist or hate speech. However, tribunal chair Lee Davies said the alleged conduct 'may impact on patient confidence' and noted 'additional information' indicating an escalation in tone.
The interim suspension took effect on Wednesday and will be reviewed within six months. The health secretary, Wes Streeting, has called for an overhaul of the medical regulatory system, saying it is 'completely failing to protect Jewish patients and NHS staff'.
