The ethics department of the doctors’ union (Israeli Medical Association, Histadrut Refuit) recently sent a letter to hospitals, reminding them that doctors have a duty to treat patients, even if they are Hamas militants. This information was reported by the Mako website. The letter was specifically addressed to hospital directors and was prompted by protests in various medical institutions when Hamas militants were receiving treatment.
According to the letter, the ethics rules of the Israeli Medical Association require doctors to provide medical care during armed conflicts, regardless of the patient’s identity. The only consideration that should be taken into account is the patient’s health condition. The trade union organization’s Ethics Department emphasizes that this approach aligns with international conventions, declarations, and Israeli law.
Despite the reprehensible actions of Hamas, the letter emphasizes that as doctors, they must provide necessary assistance to allow the legal system to bring them to justice. This commitment to providing medical care to all individuals, regardless of their background or actions, is a fundamental principle upheld by the medical community.