"Gaza Doctor Recounts Israeli Detention Ordeal"

Dr. Said Abdulrahman Maarouf, a Palestinian doctor from al-Ahli al-Arab hospital in Gaza City, was detained by Israeli forces in December during their hospital raid.

He faced 45 days of harsh treatment including sleep deprivation, continuous shackling, and blindfolding before his release.

During his captivity, Maarouf endured sleepless nights on pebbly surfaces without basic comforts, accompanied by loud music. Despite losing over 25 kilograms and suffering both physically and mentally, he was given no explanation for his imprisonment. The Israeli military has yet to comment on the incident.

Maarouf was unaware of his detention location and still hasn't received news about his family’s safety since he was last in contact. The Gaza conflict, which intensified with cross-border violence by Hamas militants and an Israeli military offensive, has resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread devastation, disrupting communication and displacing families.

Despite the trauma, Maarouf, a paediatrician of 23 years, has resumed his medical duties in Gaza, clinging to his commitment to healing amidst the ongoing turmoil.