UPDATE: A senior paediatrician in London, Dr. Ellen Kriesels, has been referred to a disciplinary tribunal by the General Medical Council (GMC) after her social media posts defending Hamas sparked outrage. This urgent development raises significant concerns about her ability to continue practicing medicine in the UK.
Dr. Kriesels, who serves as a paediatric consultant at the Whittington Hospital, has faced backlash for her controversial statements online. In her posts, she has openly criticized the Jewish community and referred to Hamas members as “oppressed resistance fighters,” asserting that they should not be labeled as terrorists. This rhetoric has alarmed many in the medical community and the public alike.
One of her posts from August stated: “Some Jews… say [October 7] was a pogrom… Other Jews… say that it was antisemitic. Always trying to frame the Jews as victims. So ridiculous. So excruciating. So exhausting.” Dr. Kriesels further claimed, “The non-civilians [being killed in Gaza] are Hamas… Do not whitewash the murder of Hamas members.”
The GMC’s decision to refer her to a tribunal comes amid increasing scrutiny of her online activity and public statements. Dr. Kriesels has also been photographed at pro-Palestine protests, holding a controversial sign that included derogatory phrases about Israel.
The tribunal is set for November 14, 2023, where a decision will be made regarding her medical practice. The Whittington NHS Health Trust has confirmed that she is currently not scheduled to work, emphasizing that there is no tolerance for discrimination within the organization. A spokesperson stated, “The care of all our local community is our number one priority.”
The GMC has not released further information about the upcoming hearing, but the situation underscores the growing tension surrounding healthcare professionals’ personal opinions and their public responsibilities.
As the case develops, it raises broader questions about freedom of speech and professional conduct in the medical field. This story is expected to evolve rapidly, and the implications for Dr. Kriesels and her career could be significant.
Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent matter.
