Palestinian-American Youth Released Following Nine Months in Israeli Imprisonment
Zaher Ibrahim
A American-Palestinian teenager having endured a nine-month period in Israeli detention without charge was released.
Mohammed Ibrahim was 15 at the time of his arrest this past winter within the occupied West Bank, during a family visit from his Florida home for allegedly throwing stones at Jewish settlers, allegations he repeatedly contested.
American diplomatic officials applauded the teenager's freedom.
Currently aged sixteen, required hospitalization for treatment immediately after release, family members reported.
Family described him as showing signs of malnutrition, and is suffering from conditions acquired while detained.
Via family representatives, family spokesperson spoke of the family's "immense relief".
Family member Zeyad Kadur stated the family experienced "living a horrific and endless nightmare" throughout the past nine months.
"Right now, we are focused on getting Mohammed the immediate medical attention necessary for his recovery following exposure to harsh conditions and cruel circumstances over several months."
US officials announced ongoing to extend consular services to Mohammed's family.
{"US government authorities considers paramount than the safety and security of American nationals"," officials stated.
Several congressional representatives had signed a letter to the state department and the White House, demanding more be done for his freedom.
The father, with four children managing a frozen treats business from Florida, had earlier stated his child admitted guilt regarding stone throwing due to physical abuse.
The father hadn't visited or spoken to Mohammed since February, receiving updates exclusively about his son's condition in detention through court documents.
The teenager remained lacking indictment within Ofer penitentiary throughout the occupied territory.
It is also home to mature inmates, some of whom have been convicted for major terrorist activities and homicide.
Approximately 350 Palestinian minors in security custody currently imprisoned in Israel, per correctional service statistics.
Many have never been charged and human rights groups, including UN bodies, say some have suffered abuse and torture.
Subsequent to his liberation, Mr Kadur said they would maintain their efforts for justice for his cousin their cousin Sayfollah.
This young American-Palestinian who the Palestinian health ministry said died from beating by Israeli settlers during a confrontation in July.
Initially, the Israeli military said they were examining reports a Palestinian civilian was deceased.
The two cousins were employed together in the family ice cream shop based in Florida.
No one has been charged with Sayfollah's killing.
"We expect the American government to protect our families," Mr Kadur said.
