A senior Palestinian doctor died in an Israeli prison after more than four months of detention, two Palestinian prisoner associations said yesterday, blaming Israel for his death.The associations said in a joint statement that Adnan Al-Bursh, head of orthopedics at Al Shifa Hospital, Gaza's largest medical facility, had been detained by Israeli forces while temporarily working at Al-Awada Hospital in north Gaza.They called his death an "assassination" and said his body remained in Israeli custody.An Israeli military spokesperson said that the prison service had declared Bursh dead on April 19, saying that he had been detained for national security reasons in Ofer prison. The spokesperson did not comment on the cause of death.Medical groups, including the World Health Organisation, have repeatedly called for a halt to attacks on Gaza healthcare workers, with more than 200 killed so far in the Gaza conflict, according to an estimate from Insecurity Insight, a research group that collects and analyses data on attacks on aid workers around the world.The Palestinian health ministry said in a statement that Bursh’s death raised to 496 the number of medical sector workers who had been killed by Israel. It added that 1,500 others had been wounded while 309 had been arrested.Earlier yesterday, the Israeli authorities released 64 Palestinians they had detained during their military offensive in Gaza via the Israeli-controlled Kerem Shalom crossing, the Palestinian borders and crossings agency said.One of them was the body of another man who had died in detention, the prisoners' associations said.Another freed detainee arrived in critical condition and was moved into hospital upon arrival, the crossings agency added.Dozens of Palestinians who had been freed by Israel in past months including some staff of a UN agency have reported ill-treatment during detention, including torture and deprivation of food and sleep.The two new deaths bring the toll of Gazans who died in Israeli custody to at least 18 since the start of the war, the prisoners associations said, urging Israeli authorities to disclose the number, location and fate of detainees from Gaza.The UN Palestinian Refugee Agency has documented the release of 1,506 people detained by the Israeli authorities through the Kerem Shalom crossing as of April 4 and said the transfer of detainees regularly holds up aid. The 1,506 included 43 children and 84 women, it said.Israel's military operation in Gaza has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians, according to Palestinian medics, and displaced the majority of Gaza's 2.3mn people.

Qatar Foundation (QF) celebrated World Autism Awareness Day with a series of community-focused activities and events at Education City.The collaborative effort among QF Pre-University Education entities Renad Academy, Awsaj Academy, The Learning Centre, and Ability Friendly Programme featured educational programmes, family-oriented activities, workshops, performances, and discussions.The activities, which focused on people with autism and their families, ensured that everyone – including the community – could participate and enjoy the experience.These initiatives underscore the QF's commitment to inclusivity and its dedication to creating an environment that promotes an understanding within the community of people with autism.One highlight was the annual Autism Awareness Family Fun Day at Al Shaqab, a member of the QF.Talal Mohamed al-Ali, the father of an autistic child at Renad Academy, said: "I attended this event because I want to actively contribute to our community, particularly in enhancing autism awareness.”“It is necessary to involve children with autism in social activities supported by experts, as this promotes their development and social skills far beyond what is possible by remaining isolated at home on electronic devices," he said.Al-Ali expressed appreciation for the variety of activities organised, and emphasised that true social integration requires parental participation and commitment to these events.Noting that they significantly improve understanding of autism, he said that he hopes that the awareness raised will extend beyond just a day or a month, and strongly urged everyone in society to take part.“By making sure these events are inclusive of all community members, we not only benefit as guardians but also have the opportunity to educate others,” al-Ali said. “Teaching our children early on that encountering people with autism is normal can prevent bullying and foster a more inclusive community.”Maha al-Binali, whose son has autism, also shared her thoughts."These events improve understanding and acceptance within society,” she said. “They provide a platform for us to share and learn from each other’s experiences. Each story shared can inspire others and make a significant impact on a child’s life."Al-Binali encouraged parents to seek early intervention if they notice signs of autism in their children."Children with autism are capable of learning and adapting if interventions start early,” she said. “Although it can be challenging initially, it becomes more manageable with proper treatment, training, and attention."Advising mothers who detect autism symptoms in their children not to fear or disregard these signs, she urged them to empower themselves and follow a path that ensures the best outcomes for their children.The QF also hosted a dialogue workshop with experts from Renad Academy on *Elevating Inclusivity and Awareness of Autism through Collaborations, which emphasised the QF’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for individuals with autism and their families.A recording of the theatrical performance *SHOWTIME! was screened in a tailored version for individuals with autism.The event featured modified lighting, reduced sound levels, and quiet areas to accommodate sensory sensitivities, providing a comfortable environment for attendees.To continue raising awareness, the “Rifd” Parent Training Programme at Awsaj Academy, in collaboration with Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health, will host workshops on *Unity of Minds online tomorrow (Saturday, May 4), from 10am-8pm.These workshops aim to enhance understanding and empathy for individuals with autism by connecting experts with the community.To register, please visit: https://awsaj.qa/event/unity-of-minds/