More than 40 members of the United States Congress have sent a letter to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging him to advocate for the release of Sama Safi, a 20-year-old US citizen detained by the Israeli military since June. The lawmakers expressed concern for Safi's health, stating that it is deteriorating under poor conditions in custody.
Led by Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, the legislators emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Every day that Sama remains wrongfully detained in these inhumane conditions, she is at greater risk of irreversible and life-threatening repercussions." They urged Rubio to act swiftly to secure her release so she can receive necessary medical care and return to her family and studies.
The letter was signed by six US senators, including Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, and Chris Van Hollen, along with numerous House members. Safi was reportedly taken from her home in the occupied West Bank during a predawn raid and has been held without charge. She is among four women detained during an Israeli crackdown on anti-occupation activism.
The letter also highlights that Safi suffers from Familial Mediterranean Fever, a chronic condition that requires regular medication, which she has not received. The lawmakers noted that she has been moved between facilities and described experiencing verbal abuse and poor living conditions, including exposure to infectious diseases.
The State Department has refrained from commenting on the specifics of Safi's case due to privacy concerns, but a spokesperson stated that the safety and security of US citizens is a priority for the Trump administration. They acknowledged awareness of the reports regarding Safi's detention and affirmed that the Department advocates for adequate medical care and treatment for detained Americans.
Raed Jarrar, advocacy director at the rights group DAWN, argued that Safi's situation should prompt a reevaluation of American military aid to Israel, citing legal obligations under the Foreign Assistance Act and the Leahy Law regarding human rights violations. The Israeli government did not respond to requests for comment. Earlier this month, the Israeli military stated that it detained four women in the West Bank for alleged involvement in terrorist activities.