A Palestinian health official says Israel has released 55 Palestinians it detained from Gaza, including the director of the territory’s main hospital. Mohammed Abu Selmia was detained in November when Israeli forces raided Shifa Hospital. Palestinian media aired video following his release Monday. Abu Selmia accused Israeli authorities of mistreating Palestinian detainees. Israeli authorities have denied such allegations. Israel accuses militants of sheltering in hospitals and using them for military purposes. Palestinian health officials say Israeli raids recklessly endanger civilians by forcing several hospitals to shut down or reduce services. Hospitals can lose their protection under international law if they are used for military purposes.
