Dr. Lina Qasem Hassan: Medical Ethics in a Divided Nation
Dr. Lina Qasem Hassan, a Palestinian citizen of Israel and a family physician, has emerged as a significant figure in the intersection of healthcare, ethics, and human rights. Following the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas and the subsequent war in Gaza, Dr. Hassan mobilized resources with Physicians for Human Rights Israel (P.H.R.I.) to support evacuees from Kibbutz Be’eri at a temporary clinic in Ein Bokek. Her actions highlighted the role of medical professionals in emergency response during politically sensitive and emotionally charged events.
Medical Neutrality and Professional Challenges
While offering medical assistance to Israeli victims, Dr. Hassan also mourned the loss of her own relative—a paramedic killed in Gaza on the same day. Her dual identity brought challenges. Despite her commitment to universal medical care, she faced accusations of political bias. A televised interview in February 2024, where she discussed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and raised concerns about international law violations, led to patient complaints demanding her dismissal.
An internal review by Clalit, Israel’s largest healthcare organization, cleared her of wrongdoing. However, the case underscores the precarious position of Arab medical professionals in Israel, particularly in the aftermath of national trauma. According to 2023 data, Arab citizens represent 25% of doctors and nearly half of all pharmacists in Israel’s healthcare system.
Navigating Identity in a Segregated System
Dr. Hassan’s experience reflects the broader structural challenges faced by Palestinian citizens in Israeli institutions. Although healthcare is often cited as a model of coexistence, studies indicate that Arab professionals are frequently expected to suppress political expression to maintain career security. Following October 7, dozens of Arab citizens, including medical personnel, faced investigations for incitement based on social media activity.
Despite these pressures, Dr. Hassan continued her involvement in medical ethics education and fieldwork in the occupied territories. However, controversy over classroom materials—such as the inclusion of a Haaretz article describing detainee mistreatment—led to internal inquiries and prompted her decision to step back from teaching. She cited concerns about constrained academic freedom and unequal treatment.
On-the-Ground Medical Aid and Humanitarian Advocacy
As Chair of P.H.R.I., Dr. Hassan has been involved in mobile clinics serving displaced Palestinians in the West Bank. During a recent visit to Danaba, she treated patients with chronic conditions who had lost access to medication and documentation. These efforts occurred against the backdrop of widespread displacement and infrastructural damage resulting from ongoing military operations.
Dr. Hassan’s advocacy includes working on reports highlighting the treatment of Palestinian detainees in Israeli facilities. A recent P.H.R.I. publication documented the experiences of 24 medical professionals detained in Gaza, citing violations of medical ethics and international humanitarian standards.
Broader Implications for Civil Rights and Coexistence
The case of Dr. Hassan illustrates broader social dynamics affecting Palestinian citizens of Israel. While the government has made investments in education for Arab communities, there remain disparities in land access, urban planning, and political representation. Public discourse following October 7 reflected increased polarization, with surveys showing heightened mistrust and limitations on expressions of dual identity.
Despite community and family concerns regarding the risks of public advocacy, Dr. Hassan continues to serve in her clinic and remains engaged in medical humanitarian work. Her case is frequently referenced in discussions about the boundaries of professional responsibility, citizenship, and dissent.
Source: Based on reporting by Eyal Press, The New Yorker, June 16, 2025.
Read the full article: A Palestinian Doctor in Israel Helps People on Both Sides