Hadassah clinic in Moscow criticized for treating Iranian IRGC fighters

Saturday 12 July 2025 - 12:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Hadassah clinic in Moscow criticized for treating Iranian IRGC fighters

Moscow – The Israeli-affiliated Hadassah Medical Moscow clinic is reportedly providing medical care to injured members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), sparking widespread criticism in Israel and ridicule across parts of the Arab world. According to a source familiar with the matter, the clinic has also treated personnel from Iranian nuclear facilities wounded in recent Israeli and US airstrikes.

At least eight IRGC members, including two senior commanders, are allegedly receiving treatment at the clinic. Additional Iranian patients are expected to arrive following the resumption of direct flights between Tehran and Moscow.

Controversy over Hadassah’s operations

Hadassah Medical Moscow, established in 2018 with a $15 million investment, operates in partnership with Russian authorities and the state-owned nuclear agency, Rosatom. While the Hadassah Medical Center is one of Israel’s most respected healthcare institutions, its Moscow branch has faced growing scrutiny for treating individuals aligned with groups hostile to Israel.

This is not the first time the clinic has faced backlash. In 2023, reports surfaced that the Moscow facility had treated members of Hamas and Hezbollah, including a close associate of Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif. The revelations prompted outrage in Israel, with some lawmakers calling for the clinic’s closure, describing its actions as a betrayal of Israeli and Western values.

Alleged ties to Iranian and Syrian figures

Unconfirmed reports suggest Rosatom may have acquired a financial stake in the clinic, which could explain why Iranian nuclear personnel have received treatment there. The clinic has also allegedly provided medical services to exiled Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his wife Asma. A team of Israeli oncologists reportedly performed examinations at their Moscow hotel, though they were not directly affiliated with the clinic.

There are additional unverified claims that the clinic’s medical team consulted with senior Turkish embassy officials in Moscow.

Regional backlash

The clinic’s willingness to treat figures linked to groups hostile to Israel has drawn sharp criticism within Israel and ridicule from parts of the Arab world. Some commentators have suggested that this reflects a deliberate policy by the clinic and its Russian partners.

Meanwhile, Iranian media reported that over 600 people were killed and more than 3,000 injured in a 12-day Israeli campaign targeting Iranian sites earlier this month.

The controversy surrounding Hadassah Medical Moscow highlights the complexity of its operations and the challenges of maintaining neutrality in a highly politicized environment.