Stockholm Protest Uses Mock Auschwitz Gate to Call for Release of Detained Gaza Hospital Director

A pro-Palestine protest in Stockholm featured a mock Auschwitz gate with the wording changed from 'Arbeit Macht Frei' to 'GAZA', GB News reported. The demonstration took place as a march dedicated to the release of Dr Hussam Abu Safya, director of a hospital in northern Gaza.

Dr Hussam Abu Safya was detained by Israeli forces in December 2024 and has been held without charge for 18 months, according to the report.

The Israeli Defence Forces stated that he was detained for suspected involvement in terrorist activities and membership in Hamas. Chants of 'Free Palestine' were audible in videos of the event. Jewish organisations criticised the demonstration for its use of Holocaust imagery.

Israel’s ambassador to Sweden, Ziv Nevo Kulman, stated he is following recent antisemitic incidents in Sweden with deep concern. He cited examples including a Jewish doctor subjected to verbal abuse, healthcare workers in demonstrations with antisemitic statements, and weekly demonstrations distorting the Holocaust.

Kulman asked how many more times the same hatred can be condemned and when authorities will act against incitement.

The Official Council of Jewish Communities in Sweden also criticised the march. Aaron Verständig, chairman of the Official Council of Jewish Communities in Sweden, stated that trivialising the Holocaust during the Stockholm demonstration is profoundly offensive and deeply repugnant.

Daniel Schatz stated that the police were visibly present at the demonstration yet showed passivity toward the antisemitic display.