Palestinian-American Youth Freed Following Nine-Month Period in Israel's Detention

Zaher Ibrahim Zaher Ibrahim

A Palestinian-American teenager having endured nine months in Israel's custody without charge was released.

Mohammed Ibrahim was 15 when he was arrested in February throughout the West Bank territory, during a family visit on holiday from Florida for allegedly throwing stones toward Israeli settlers, allegations he repeatedly contested.

United States authorities expressed satisfaction with the news of Mohammed's release.

Mohammed, now 16, needed medical care for treatment immediately after release, family members reported.

According to them, he appears visibly pale and thin, and experiencing medical problems acquired while detained.

Through an official statement, the youth's uncle expressed the family's "tremendous relief".

The uncle, Zeyad Kadur said the family had been "living a horrific and endless nightmare" throughout the past nine months.

"Currently, we are focused on ensuring Mohammed receives the immediate medical attention he requires following exposure to Israel's abuse and inhumane conditions for months."

The state department stated they would maintain to offer diplomatic assistance to the teenager's relatives.

{"The Trump Administration has no higher priority to the protection and welfare for United States citizens"," it added.

Twenty-seven US lawmakers had signed a letter to US authorities and the administration, requesting additional efforts for his freedom.

Mohammed's parent, with four children who runs an ice cream business from Florida, previously said his child admitted guilt regarding stone throwing due to physical abuse.

He had not seen or communicated with his son since February, and only heard what had happened to him through judicial records.

Mohammed was held lacking indictment at Ofer detention facility on the West Bank.

Additionally housing grown detainees, including individuals found guilty regarding severe security violations and homicide.

There are around 350 Palestinian minors in security custody currently imprisoned in Israel, per correctional service statistics.

Many have never been charged along with monitoring agencies, including UN bodies, document cases involving physical abuse and torture.

After the teenager's freedom, the uncle stated they would maintain their efforts demanding accountability for their family member Sayfollah Musallet.

This young American-Palestinian who the Palestinian health ministry said was beaten to death by Israeli settlers following tensions in July.

At the time, military authorities reported they were examining reports a Palestinian civilian had been killed.

The two cousins collaborated at their family's ice cream business from Tampa.

No indictments occurred with Sayfollah's killing.

"We expect US authorities to safeguard our relatives," Mr Kadur said.

Eric Osborn
Eric Osborn

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