Palestinian-American Adolescent Released Following Nine Months in Israeli Detention
Zaher Ibrahim
A American-Palestinian adolescent who spent nine months in Israel's custody absent formal charges has been freed.
Mohammed Ibrahim had just turned 15 at the time of his arrest last February in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, during a family visit while residing in Florida for allegedly throwing stones against settlement residents, allegations he repeatedly contested.
The US state department applauded Mohammed's liberation.
Currently aged sixteen, required hospitalization upon gaining freedom, family members reported.
They said he is showing signs of malnutrition, while battling health issues acquired while detained.
In a statement, Mohammed's uncle spoke of the family's "immense relief".
Zeyad Kadur said the family had been "enduring a dreadful, continuous nightmare" during the entire detention period.
"Currently, we are focused on ensuring Mohammed receives urgent medical care he requires after experiencing mistreatment by authorities and inhumane conditions for months."
US officials announced ongoing to offer diplomatic assistance for the Ibrahim family.
{"US government authorities considers paramount than the safety and security for United States citizens"," officials stated.
A group of American legislators submitted a formal letter to diplomatic officials and the White House, requesting additional efforts to release him.
The father, a father-of-four who runs an ice cream business in Florida, previously claimed Mohammed acknowledged allegations about rock throwing because the soldiers beat him.
The father hadn't visited nor direct contact since February, learning information solely about his son's condition in detention through court documents.
He stayed without charge in Ofer prison throughout the occupied territory.
Additionally housing grown detainees, including individuals found guilty for major terrorist activities and murder.
An estimated 350 Palestinian minors in security custody being held in Israeli jails, based on prison authority data.
Numerous remain uncharged and human rights groups, as well as the United Nations, document cases involving physical abuse and torture.
After the teenager's freedom, Mr Kadur said they would maintain their efforts for justice for his cousin family member Sayfollah.
The 20-year-old dual US citizen per medical officials died from beating by radical settlers during a confrontation in July.
During that period, military authorities reported officials were investigating accounts of a Palestinian had died.
The two cousins had worked together within the family's frozen treats establishment in Tampa, Florida.
No charges have been filed regarding Sayfollah's death.
"We expect the American government to safeguard our relatives," Mr Kadur said.
