Palestinian-American Teenager Liberated Following Nine-Month Period in Israel's Custody

Zaher Ibrahim Zaher Ibrahim

An American-Palestinian teenager who spent a nine-month period in Israeli detention absent formal charges has been freed.

Mohammed Ibrahim was 15 during his detention last February within the occupied West Bank, during a family visit on holiday from Florida for allegedly throwing stones toward Israeli settlers, which he previously denied.

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

Mohammed, now 16, was taken to hospital for treatment immediately after release, family members reported.

According to them, he appears pale, underweight, and is suffering from conditions developed during imprisonment.

In a statement, Mohammed's uncle spoke of the family's "overwhelming sense of relief".

The uncle, Zeyad Kadur said the family had been "living a horrific and endless nightmare" during the entire detention period.

"Right now, we're concentrating on getting Mohammed prompt healthcare he needs after being subjected to mistreatment by authorities and inhumane conditions throughout his detention."

The state department said it would continue to provide consular support to Mohammed's family.

{"US government authorities has no higher priority to the protection and welfare of US citizens"," it added.

A group of American legislators submitted a formal letter to US authorities and the administration, requesting additional efforts for his freedom.

The father, a father-of-four operating an ice cream shop based in Tampa, had earlier stated his child admitted guilt about rock throwing due to physical abuse.

There were no visits or spoken to Mohammed since the arrest, and only heard regarding the treatment via legal paperwork.

Mohammed was held absent formal charges within Ofer penitentiary throughout the occupied territory.

Additionally housing mature inmates, featuring prisoners sentenced for major terrorist activities including killings.

Approximately several hundred young Palestinian detainees being held in Israeli jails, per correctional service statistics.

Numerous remain uncharged and human rights groups, and international organizations, say some have suffered abuse and torture.

Following Mohammed's release, family representatives announced the family would also continue fighting for justice for his cousin Sayfollah Musallet.

The dual national youth who the Palestinian health ministry said succumbed to assault by settlement residents following tensions in July.

At the time, the Israeli military said officials were investigating information regarding a civilian was deceased.

Both young men collaborated at their family's ice cream business based in Florida.

No indictments occurred for the cousin's murder.

"We anticipate the American government to ensure our family's safety," Mr Kadur said.

Courtney Saunders MD
Courtney Saunders MD

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