Tensions take over Askalan prison for IOF's refusal of Abu Hamid visit

According to the Palestinian Prisoners Club (PPC) on Sunday, tensions rose in the prisoner's bloc in Askalan prison after the Prison Authorities stalled completing the request of prisoner Nasser Abu Hamid's siblings and representative to allow for his visitation at Ramle prison. 

Before his transfer to Ramle prison, Abu Hamid was held in Askalan prison for years, and according to the PPC last Thursday, a new medical report shows the cancer-stricken prisoner's health in critical condition and battling death. 

The Wa'ed Prisoners Association pointed out that the Israeli "Asaf Harofeh" hospital relinquished its medical responsibility for the cancer-stricken prisoner and recommended his release, while the move came after Abu Hmeid entered the clinical death stage.

On its part, the Ministry of Prisoners in Gaza indicated that cancer spread to Abu Hmeid's brain and bones after it was only concentrated in his lungs, explaining that the fast spread of cancer in the prisoner's body came as a result of the Israeli delay and procrastination in providing Abu Hmeid with the necessary treatment until his body became no longer responsive to any possible treatment.

The Commission of Detainees and Ex-Detainees Affairs previously stated that he underwent chemotherapy sessions and his health is deteriorating at a rapid pace. His brother, Naji, described his state as a "slow death" as a result of medical negligence, pointing out that the latest medical report calls for the immediate release of his brother but the IOF has not complied or responded yet. 

Abu Hamid has been imprisoned since 2002, sentenced to life 7 times and 50 years, and is the brother of 5 other prisoners in the occupation prisons.