In a move that has sparked outrage and fierce debate, Israeli officials have released Mohammad Abu Salmiya, the chief of Gaza's al-Shifa Hospital, from prison without apparent charges. Salmiya, who was arrested amid a controversial raid in November, was one of about 50 Palestinians released and returned to Gaza on Monday.

The decision to release Salmiya has quickly drawn criticism, with many questioning the motives behind his sudden freedom. Israeli officials initially suggested that the release was due to a shortage of prison space, a claim that has been disputed by the Prison Service. This has led to calls for the resignation of Shin Bet intelligence director Ronen Bar and raised questions about the leadership of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The release of Salmiya, along with other prisoners, has triggered a backlash against Israeli intelligence officials and the government. Right-wing National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir denounced the release, calling it a "security negligence." Former war cabinet minister Benny Gantz also demanded Bar's resignation, highlighting concerns about Israel's current leadership.

Avi Marciano, whose daughter Noa tragically lost her life in the al-Shifa hospital, expressed his outrage at the release. He criticized the State of Israel for seemingly neglecting his daughter's case and allowing those responsible for her murder to go free.

In response to the public outcry, Netanyahu's office denied any involvement in Salmiya's release, stating that it followed discussions at the High Court. Both the Prime Minister's office and Shin Bet have now confirmed that an investigation into the release is underway, despite initially positing that Salmiya's freedom would not pose a significant threat.

Salmiya, whose whereabouts were previously unknown, has claimed that he was tortured and denied access to legal representation during his time in custody. The al-Quds media network, which has alleged ties to Hamas, reported Salmiya's claims that he was arrested under suspicion of aiding the terror group's activities at the hospital.

The IDF had previously conducted a raid at the al-Shifa hospital in November, uncovering a significant cache of weapons and combat gear. While evidence of Hamas' presence and activity at the hospital was found, the Israeli military has not provided conclusive proof of an operations base underneath the hospital connected to the group's tunnel system.

The controversy surrounding Salmiya's release comes as Hamas launched a major rocket barrage against Israel, with at least 20 missiles targeting border communities. Israel's air defense system intercepted several of the rockets, and the IDF responded with a retaliatory strike in Khan Younis, targeting the rocket launchers used in the attack.

The repercussions of Salmiya's release continue to reverberate, raising questions about the handling of the war and the Israeli government's approach to security and justice. As the investigation unfolds, the public awaits further details surrounding the circumstances of Salmiya's release, hoping for transparency and proper accountability.