UPDATE: A senior paediatrician in London, Dr. Ellen Kriesels, has been referred to a disciplinary tribunal by the General Medical Council (GMC) for her controversial social media posts defending Hamas. This urgent development raises significant concerns within the medical community and beyond.
Dr. Kriesels, a consultant at the Whittington Hospital in North London, has publicly voiced her support for the terrorist organization, provoking outrage. Her comments, made on multiple occasions, include claims that some Jews exaggerate their victimhood, stating, “Always trying to frame the Jews as victims. So ridiculous. So excruciating. So exhausting.”
In a shocking statement regarding the casualties in Gaza, she said, “Do not whitewash the murder of Hamas members. They are a political party and oppressed resistance fighters. NOT terrorists.” This rhetoric has drawn widespread condemnation from various communities, intensifying the scrutiny surrounding her professional conduct.
Dr. Kriesels has also made sweeping generalizations about the Jewish community, alleging that “Jewish supremacy is the ideology at the root of all this evil.” These inflammatory remarks have led to her being pictured at pro-Palestine protests, holding an Israeli flag with a highly provocative message.
The GMC’s intervention comes after Dr. Kriesels was reportedly suspended from her position at the Whittington Hospital last month. She is set to attend a crucial tribunal hearing on November 14, 2023, where a decision will be made regarding her ability to continue practicing medicine.
A spokesperson from Whittington NHS Health Trust stated, “We can confirm that we have heard the concerns raised about one of our employees. The employee concerned is not currently scheduled to be working at the Trust.” They emphasized that any personal opinions expressed do not reflect the Trust’s views, reaffirming their commitment to non-discrimination.
As this situation develops, the GMC has remained tight-lipped about the details of the upcoming tribunal, heightening public interest in the case. The implications of Dr. Kriesels’ statements and her professional future hang in the balance, underscoring the tension surrounding freedom of speech in the medical profession.
This case has sparked discussions about the responsibilities of healthcare professionals in expressing personal beliefs, especially on polarizing political matters. The outcome of the tribunal could set a significant precedent for medical professionals navigating similar issues in the future.
Stay tuned for updates as this situation evolves. For more news and developments, sign up for our free daily newsletter.
