On Monday morning, Israeli authorities released Abu Salmiya after a seven-month detention, which began on November 23 of last year.

This decision, which included the release of over 50 Palestinian detainees from Gaza, has led to calls for the dismissal of Shin Bet (General Security Service) head Ronen Bar and the replacement of other security leaders.

The release of Dr. Mohammad Abu Salmiya Details

Diaspora Minister Amichai Chikli expressed his frustration on the “X” platform, calling the release of Abu Salmiya without any exchange “intolerable.” He criticized the decision, stating, “This decision was not passed by the government or the mini-cabinet, and whoever is behind it must be held accountable for this negligent and harmful decision to Israel’s security.” Chikli added, “This is one of the dumbest decisions made here since the beginning of the war, and whoever approved it should go home now.”

Israeli media, including the official broadcasting authority, published an image of ministers’ discussions on a government WhatsApp group. Settlement Minister Orit Strock wrote, “It’s inconceivable that such a thing happens without a government meeting!” She demanded an immediate halt to all activities and the convening of a government meeting.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir also voiced his concerns, calling for the dismissal of Shin Bet head Ronen Bar. “He does what he wants,” Ben-Gvir said, adding that Defense Minister Yoav Gallant supports Bar’s actions. He further commented on the overcrowded conditions in prisons holding thousands of Palestinian detainees, suggesting a lack of concern for their humanitarian conditions, which violates international laws.

Communications Minister Moshe Kahlon called for new security leadership in Israel, emphasizing the need for leaders committed to the spirit and bravery of soldiers, akin to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “The sooner, the better,” he stated.

According to the official broadcasting authority, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant was unaware of the decision to release the director of Al-Shifa Hospital. Relatives of Israeli prisoners in Gaza expressed their outrage in a statement, accusing Israel of releasing “the killer and collaborator with Hamas, the director of Al-Shifa Hospital, who concealed Hamas nests, including weapons and hideouts.” They criticized the decision to release Abu Salmiya instead of using him as a bargaining chip.

Haaretz reported that about three weeks ago, the state informed the Israeli Supreme Court that all Palestinian prisoners held in Sde Teyman Detention Center (southern Israel) would either be transferred to other detention facilities or returned to the Gaza Strip. Reports from Palestinian, Israeli, and international sources have highlighted widespread abuses against detainees in Sde Teyman prison, where hundreds of Palestinians from Gaza are held. The Israeli Supreme Court is currently considering a petition demanding the closure of the prison.