In this episode of "What Makes You Tick," I welcome Dr. Mohammed Mustafa, an emergency medicine physician known for his advocacy and humanitarian work in Gaza, also known as the "Beast from the Middle East." The episode explores Dr. Mustafa's personal history as a Palestinian refugee, his family roots, his professional background working in Australia, and his missions as an international aid worker during the ongoing crisis in Gaza.

Dr. Mohammed Mustafa shares a deeply personal account of his time in Gaza, reflecting on the responsibilities and emotional toll of serving as both a doctor and a member of the Palestinian diaspora during an active humanitarian disaster. He provides a first-hand look at the atrocities of war, the dehumanising language and media narratives, and the daily decisions medics are forced to make under unimaginable pressure and scarcity.

The conversation spans:

Dr. Mustafa’s background and family history, growing up as a refugee, and his path to medicine.

His two missions to Gaza (in 2024 and 2025), describing the devastation witnessed, including famine, ongoing violence, deliberate targeting of civilians and medical infrastructure, and mass casualty management.

The psychological and physical toll on medics, with Dr. Mustafa recounting patients’ stories, especially children’s, and the impossibility of providing adequate care with limited resources.

The challenge of countering dehumanizing narratives in international media and advocating for Palestinian humanity.

His efforts to implement life-saving infrastructure—a solar-powered mobile hospital ready in Jordan, awaiting governmental clearance and support.

Reflections on ongoing international solidarity actions (such as the flotilla), barriers in government response, and the larger, multi-community movement for Palestinian rights.

The episode is a raw, moving, and honest exploration of the humanitarian crisis and the limits—and importance—of individual action when governments fall short. Dr. Mustafa discusses his ongoing lobbying efforts, the importance of grassroots support, and how to follow and support his continuing work.