American-Palestinian Teenager Liberated After 270 Days in Israel's Custody
Zaher Ibrahim
A Palestinian-American youth after completing 270 days in Israeli detention without being charged has been freed.
The teenager Mohammed Ibrahim was 15 at the time of his arrest this past winter in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, where he was visiting on holiday from Florida accused of stone-throwing toward Israeli settlers, which he previously denied.
American diplomatic officials expressed satisfaction with the news of Mohammed's release.
Currently aged sixteen, needed medical care right after being freed, according to close relatives.
Family described him as pale, underweight, and is suffering from conditions contracted in captivity.
In a statement, family spokesperson conveyed their "overwhelming sense of relief".
Family member Zeyad Kadur said the family had been "living a horrific and endless nightmare" during the entire detention period.
"Right now, we are focused on providing Mohammed with prompt healthcare necessary for his recovery after being subjected to Israel's abuse and inhumane conditions over several months."
American authorities said it would continue to provide consular support to the teenager's relatives.
{"US government authorities gives utmost importance than the safety and security of US citizens"," officials stated.
A group of American legislators endorsed a document to diplomatic officials and President Donald Trump, demanding more be done to release him.
Mohammed's parent, a father-of-four operating an ice cream shop based in Tampa, had earlier stated Mohammed acknowledged allegations to throwing stones due to physical abuse.
The father hadn't visited or spoken to Mohammed since the arrest, and only heard regarding the treatment via legal paperwork.
He stayed without charge in Ofer prison on the West Bank.
It is also home to mature inmates, some of whom have been convicted for major terrorist activities and murder.
An estimated 350 Palestinian child security detainees being held in Israeli jails, according to the Israeli Prison Service.
Several lack formal charges and human rights groups, including UN bodies, say some have suffered physical abuse and torture.
After the teenager's freedom, Mr Kadur said the family would also continue fighting for justice for his cousin family member Sayfollah.
The dual national youth per medical officials died from beating by settlement residents during a confrontation in July.
During that period, defense forces stated authorities were looking into reports a Palestinian civilian had died.
Mohammed and Sayfollah collaborated within the family's frozen treats establishment from Tampa.
No one has been charged regarding Sayfollah's death.
"We demand the American government to safeguard our relatives," family representatives emphasized.
