American-Palestinian Adolescent Released Following Nine Months in Israeli Custody

Zaher Ibrahim

A Palestinian-American youth after completing a nine-month period in imprisonment by Israel without being charged gained freedom.

Mohammed Ibrahim had just turned 15 at the time of his arrest this past winter throughout the West Bank territory, while he was vacationing while residing in Florida for allegedly throwing stones at Jewish settlers, which he previously denied.

United States authorities said it welcomed the news of Mohammed's release.

Mohammed, now 16, required hospitalization right after being freed, relatives told the media.

According to them, he appears visibly pale and thin, and experiencing medical problems developed during imprisonment.

In a statement, family spokesperson spoke of the family's "immense relief".

The uncle, Zeyad Kadur stated the family experienced "enduring a dreadful, continuous nightmare" over the last nine months.

"Right now, we are focused on ensuring Mohammed receives the immediate medical attention he needs following exposure to Israel's abuse and cruel circumstances over several months."

The state department said it would continue to extend consular services to the teenager's relatives.

{"The Trump Administration has no higher priority to the protection and welfare of US citizens"," it added.

Twenty-seven US lawmakers had signed a letter to diplomatic officials and the White House, urging greater action to secure his release.

The father, parent of four children managing a frozen treats business in Florida, previously claimed his child admitted guilt to throwing stones after being assaulted by soldiers.

The father hadn't visited or spoken to Mohammed since the arrest, learning information solely about his son's condition through judicial records.

Mohammed was held absent formal charges in Ofer prison in the West Bank.

Additionally housing adult prisoners, featuring prisoners sentenced 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 while advocacy organizations, including UN bodies, report instances of physical abuse and torture.

Subsequent to his liberation, family representatives announced relatives would persist in advocating seeking justice for their relative Sayfollah Musallet.

The dual national youth per medical officials was beaten to death by settlement residents during a confrontation during summer.

During that period, military authorities reported authorities were looking into reports a Palestinian civilian was deceased.

Mohammed and Sayfollah had worked together within the family's frozen treats establishment based in Florida.

No charges have been filed regarding Sayfollah's death.

"We anticipate US authorities to protect our families," Mr Kadur said.