Palestinian-American Teenager Released After Nine-Month Period in Israel's Detention
Zaher Ibrahim
A American-Palestinian adolescent who spent nine months in Israel's custody without being charged was released.
The teenager Mohammed Ibrahim had just turned 15 when he was arrested this past winter within the occupied West Bank, where he was visiting on holiday from Florida for allegedly throwing stones at Jewish settlers, allegations he repeatedly contested.
United States authorities said it welcomed the news of Mohammed's release.
Now sixteen years old, needed medical care right after being freed, family members reported.
Family described him as visibly pale and thin, and is suffering from conditions acquired while detained.
In a statement, the youth's uncle spoke of the family's "tremendous relief".
Zeyad Kadur said the family had been "living a horrific and endless nightmare" during the entire detention period.
"Right now, we are focused on ensuring Mohammed receives prompt healthcare he needs after experiencing mistreatment by authorities and brutal treatment for months."
The state department said it would continue to extend consular services to the teenager's relatives.
{"The Trump Administration gives utmost importance than the safety and security for United States citizens"," the department emphasized.
Several congressional representatives had signed a letter to the state department and the White House, requesting additional efforts for his freedom.
The father, with four children who runs an ice cream business based in Tampa, previously claimed his child admitted guilt regarding stone throwing due to physical abuse.
There were no visits or spoken to Mohammed since the arrest, receiving updates exclusively what had happened to him in detention through court documents.
The teenager remained absent formal charges in Ofer prison throughout the occupied territory.
It is also home to adult prisoners, some of whom have been convicted regarding severe security violations and homicide.
An estimated 350 Palestinian child security detainees detained within Israeli facilities, per correctional service statistics.
Several lack formal charges while advocacy organizations, as well as the United Nations, say some have suffered abuse and torture.
Following Mohammed's release, the uncle stated they would maintain their efforts seeking justice for their relative Sayfollah Musallet.
The 20-year-old dual US citizen who the Palestinian health ministry said succumbed to assault by radical settlers amid clashes during summer.
At the time, the Israeli military said they were examining information regarding a civilian had been killed.
Both young men had worked together in the family ice cream shop based in Florida.
No charges have been filed for the cousin's murder.
"We demand the American government to protect our families," family representatives emphasized.