A year after his release from Israeli prison, Gaza nurse Wissam Hassan al-Sakani says he is still waiting to feel free. Detained during an Israeli raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital in December 2024, the 40-year-old nurse spent nearly 11 months in Israeli custody without charge before being released as part of a ceasefire agreement.
Al-Sakani described harsh conditions during his detention, including sleep deprivation, inadequate medical care, and the withholding of medication. He said he was accused of being affiliated with Hamas simply because he worked at the hospital. The Israeli military declined to comment on the specifics of his arrest, while the Israel Prison Service stated that its operations comply with the law and are subject to oversight.
The International Committee of the Red Cross has been unable to visit Palestinian detainees in Israeli facilities since October 2023, citing limitations on access granted by Israeli authorities.
Al-Sakani was freed in October 2025 during a ceasefire deal that led to the release of hostages held by Hamas and nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. However, his return to Gaza has not brought an end to his struggles. He currently earns approximately 1,000 Israeli shekels, about $250, every three months, highlighting significant financial hardship.
The return has also been marked by profound personal loss. During his imprisonment, al-Sakani was separated from his wife, Iman, and their 3-year-old daughter, Misk. He also returned to a family grieving the death of their 8-year-old son, Hassan, who was killed on his birthday, November 23, 2023, when an explosive barrel destroyed their home and buried him under rubble.
Describing his current reality, al-Sakani said, "Gaza is a huge prison. It's hell. I went from a small hell to a much bigger one." He expressed a desire to leave Gaza to forget the painful memories and start a new life, stating, "I want to leave with nothing. I don't want anything."