A senior NHS doctor is facing serious professional consequences after footage emerged showing him refusing to condemn Hamas's October 7 massacre and wearing what appeared to be celebratory jewellery commemorating the attacks.
Controversial Public Appearance
Dr. Ahmed Al-Saqqa, a consultant at University Hospitals Sussex, sparked outrage during a Brighton and Hove City Council meeting when he explicitly declined to denounce the terrorist organisation. The incident occurred during discussions about displaying the 'We Stand With Israel' message on public buildings.
The Necklace Controversy
Eyewitnesses reported seeing Dr. Al-Saqqa wearing a distinctive necklace featuring the number 7 in Arabic script, which some interpreted as celebrating the date of Hamas's brutal attacks that claimed over 1,200 Israeli lives. When questioned about the jewellery, the doctor reportedly smiled and remained silent.
NHS Response and Investigation
University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust has confirmed they are treating the matter with "the utmost seriousness" and have launched a formal investigation. A trust spokesperson stated: "We expect all our staff to uphold the highest professional standards both inside and outside the workplace."
Community Backlash
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from local community leaders and politicians. Conservative councillor Samer Bagaeen described the doctor's behaviour as "utterly unacceptable," while Jewish community representatives expressed deep concern about the implications for community safety and trust in public institutions.
Professional Standards Under Scrutiny
The case raises important questions about the boundaries of free speech for healthcare professionals and their responsibility to maintain public confidence in the NHS. Medical ethics experts suggest that while doctors have personal political views, publicly celebrating or refusing to condemn terrorist acts crosses professional boundaries.
The investigation continues as pressure mounts for decisive action from NHS authorities regarding Dr. Al-Saqqa's future within the health service.
