GAZA: The European Parliament named detained Palestinian doctor Hussam Abu Safiya among nominees for its 2026 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought on Thursday.
The Greens and The Left political groups nominated the paediatrician, who formerly directed Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza. Israeli forces detained him in December 2024, and he remains in Israeli custody without charge or trial.
Israel alleges that Abu Safiya is affiliated with Hamas, but his lawyers and family deny the allegation. Rights groups have also raised concerns about his health and treatment in detention.
The annual prize recognises individuals and organisations defending human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Meanwhile, the Socialists and Democrats nominated the International Criminal Court and its officials. President Nayib Bukele of El Salvador received a nomination from the Europe of Sovereign Nations group.
Read: WHO Raises Alarm Over Lost Contact with Gaza’s Al Shifa Hospital
Tanzanian opposition figure Tundu Lissu is another candidate, nominated jointly by the European People’s Party and European Conservatives and Reformists.
Read: Gaza Satellite Images Show Ruins as UN Puts Damage at 82%
Patriots for Europe put forward Iranian activists Taraneh and Romina Rahimi, while Renew Europe nominated Standing Together, an Israeli Jewish-Palestinian grassroots movement.
Next, the parliament’s Foreign Affairs and Development committees are due to choose a shortlist of three nominees in Strasbourg on October 19. The laureate will be selected on October 22.
Abu Safiya is among six nominations for the European Parliament’s 2026 Sakharov Prize.
