Palestinian-American Adolescent Released Following Nine-Month Period in Israel's Custody
Zaher Ibrahim
A American-Palestinian youth having endured nine months in Israel's custody without charge gained freedom.
Mohammed Ibrahim was fifteen years old at the time of his arrest in February in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, while he was vacationing while residing in Florida for allegedly throwing stones against settlement residents, claims he consistently denied.
United States authorities said it welcomed the news of Mohammed's release.
Now sixteen years old, was taken to hospital upon gaining freedom, according to close relatives.
They said he is showing signs of malnutrition, while battling health issues contracted in captivity.
Through an official statement, the youth's uncle spoke of the family's "overwhelming sense of relief".
Family member Zeyad Kadur stated the family experienced "enduring a dreadful, continuous nightmare" throughout the past nine months.
"Currently, we are focused on getting Mohammed urgent medical care he requires following exposure to harsh conditions and cruel circumstances throughout his detention."
The state department said it would continue to extend consular services to Mohammed's family.
{"US government authorities gives utmost importance to the protection and welfare of US citizens"," it added.
Several congressional representatives had signed a letter to US authorities and the administration, urging greater action to secure his release.
Mohammed's parent, parent of four children managing a frozen treats business in Florida, had earlier stated Mohammed acknowledged allegations to throwing stones after being assaulted by soldiers.
He had not seen or communicated with his son since the arrest, learning information solely what had happened to him via legal paperwork.
The teenager remained without charge at Ofer detention facility in the West Bank.
Additionally housing grown detainees, including individuals found guilty regarding severe security violations and homicide.
An estimated several hundred young Palestinian detainees currently imprisoned in Israel, per correctional service statistics.
Numerous remain uncharged and human rights groups, and international organizations, say some have suffered physical abuse and torture.
After the teenager's freedom, family representatives announced they would maintain their efforts demanding accountability for their family member their cousin Sayfollah.
This young American-Palestinian per medical officials was beaten to death by settlement residents during a confrontation last July.
At the time, the Israeli military said authorities were looking into reports a Palestinian civilian was deceased.
Both young men had worked together in the family ice cream shop based in Florida.
No one has been charged with Sayfollah's killing.
"We expect United States leadership to ensure our family's safety," the uncle stated.