Story perspectives

US Senators Demand Release of Sick Palestinian Detainee

6/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

Israeli military arrested 20-year-old Sama Safi in Ramallah on June 2 and held her in Ofer prison without charge.
Human-rights groups say Safi’s familial Mediterranean fever leaves her in severe deprivation and limited medical care.
Her family has been barred from visiting her.
Senators Chris Van Hollen and Jeff Merkley have demanded her release.
Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir’s push for harsher treatment raises concerns her condition could worsen without medication.

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Story summary

Israeli military arrested 20-year-old Sama Safi in Ramallah on June 2 and held her in Ofer prison without charge.
Human-rights groups say Safi’s familial Mediterranean fever leaves her in severe deprivation and limited medical care.
Her family has been barred from visiting her.
Senators Chris Van Hollen and Jeff Merkley have demanded her release.
Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir’s push for harsher treatment raises concerns her condition could worsen without medication.