World

Missing Palestinian Medic Detained in Israel Amid Controversial Attack

2025-04-13

Author: Jia

Tragic Turn for Palestinian Paramedic

A Palestinian paramedic, who vanished following a brutal assault on medical personnel in Gaza, has reportedly been detained in Israel, according to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The ordeal began on March 23 when Israeli troops attacked ambulances responding to injured colleagues in Rafah, leaving the fate of Assad al-Nsasrah uncertain for weeks.

A Gruesome Attack Unfolds

The attack was catastrophic, claiming the lives of 15 Palestinian paramedics and rescue workers, including a United Nations employee. Survivors described a harrowing scene where medics were shot 'one by one', with their bodies reportedly buried under a bulldozer in an apparent attempt to erase the evidence.

Calls for Accountability and Justice

Accusations of a grave breach of international law have led the Palestinian Red Crescent to demand a thorough investigation. Nsasrah, a seasoned medic with 16 years of service, has not been seen since the ambush. Witness Munther Abed stated he observed Nsasrah being taken away by Israeli officers while blindfolded.

ICRC's Urgent Plea

On Sunday, the ICRC confirmed it had received word that Nsasrah is detained in an undisclosed Israeli facility, although they have been denied access to him. An ICRC spokesperson emphasized the organization's commitment to ensuring all detainees are treated humanely.

International Community Steps In

The PRCS has urged global leaders to intervene for the release of Nsasrah, describing his abduction during humanitarian missions as unacceptable. As a father of six, his family's plight has added urgency to the calls for action.

IDF's Shifting Narrative

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have faced scrutiny due to inconsistencies in their account of the attack. Initially justifying their fire on grounds of suspicion, they have since retracted their statements following the emergence of video evidence showing the ambulances clearly marked and operating with emergency lights.

A Survivor's Harrowing Experience

Abed, who survived the ambush, recounted his horrifying experience of being detained, beaten, and interrogated by Israeli forces before being released. The IDF has stated it is reviewing operational protocols to understand these conflicting narratives and is conducting an investigation into the incident.

No Proof Against the Victims

Despite claims from the IDF that some casualties were linked to Hamas, no evidence has surfaced to support these allegations, leaving many questioning the legitimacy of the military's actions during the tragic event.