Palestinian-American Youth Freed Following Nine Months in Israeli Custody
Zaher Ibrahim
An American-Palestinian teenager who spent 270 days in Israeli detention without charge was released.
Mohammed Ibrahim was fifteen years old during his detention last February throughout the West Bank territory, while he was vacationing while residing in Florida accused of stone-throwing toward Israeli settlers, claims he consistently denied.
The US state department said it welcomed the news of Mohammed's release.
Currently aged sixteen, needed medical care upon gaining freedom, family members reported.
Family described him as visibly pale and thin, while battling health issues contracted in captivity.
Through an official statement, family spokesperson conveyed their "immense relief".
Family member Zeyad Kadur said the family had been "living a horrific and endless nightmare" over the last nine months.
"At this moment, our priority is getting Mohammed the immediate medical attention necessary for his recovery following exposure to harsh conditions and cruel circumstances throughout his detention."
The state department said it would continue to offer diplomatic assistance to the teenager's relatives.
{"American leadership gives utmost importance than the safety and security of American nationals"," it added.
Twenty-seven US lawmakers had signed a letter to diplomatic officials and the administration, demanding more be done to release him.
The father, a father-of-four who runs an ice cream business based in Tampa, previously claimed Mohammed acknowledged allegations to throwing stones after being assaulted by soldiers.
There were no visits nor direct contact since the arrest, receiving updates exclusively regarding the treatment via legal paperwork.
Mohammed was held lacking indictment within Ofer penitentiary throughout the occupied territory.
It is also home to adult prisoners, featuring prisoners sentenced regarding severe security violations and murder.
Approximately several hundred young Palestinian detainees being held in Israeli jails, based on prison authority data.
Many have never been charged and human rights groups, as well as the United Nations, document cases involving abuse and torture.
Subsequent to his liberation, the uncle stated the family would also continue fighting for justice for his cousin their cousin Sayfollah.
The dual national youth who the Palestinian health ministry said died from beating by Israeli settlers during a confrontation in July.
At the time, defense forces stated they were examining reports a Palestinian civilian had been killed.
Mohammed and Sayfollah collaborated within the family's frozen treats establishment in Tampa, Florida.
No one has been charged with Sayfollah's killing.
"We demand the American government to safeguard our relatives," Mr Kadur said.
