Palestinian-American Adolescent Liberated Following Nine-Month Period in Israel's Imprisonment
Zaher Ibrahim
A Palestinian-American teenager who spent nine months in Israel's custody without charge has been freed.
The teenager Mohammed Ibrahim had just turned 15 at the time of his arrest in February in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, while he was vacationing from his Florida home accused of stone-throwing toward Israeli settlers, allegations he repeatedly contested.
United States authorities applauded the news of Mohammed's release.
Now sixteen years old, was taken to hospital right after being freed, according to close relatives.
Family described him as visibly pale and thin, while battling health issues contracted in captivity.
In a statement, family spokesperson conveyed their "tremendous relief".
The uncle, Zeyad Kadur said the family had been "living a horrific and endless nightmare" during the entire detention period.
"At this moment, our priority is providing Mohammed with prompt healthcare he requires after experiencing mistreatment by authorities and brutal treatment throughout his detention."
US officials announced ongoing to extend consular services to the teenager's relatives.
{"American leadership gives utmost importance to the protection and welfare of American nationals"," the department emphasized.
Twenty-seven US lawmakers submitted a formal letter to diplomatic officials and the White House, urging greater action for his freedom.
Mr Ibrahim, parent of four children operating an ice cream shop from Florida, had earlier stated Mohammed acknowledged allegations about rock throwing because the soldiers beat him.
The father hadn't visited nor direct contact following the detention, receiving updates exclusively what had happened to him in detention through court documents.
The teenager remained absent formal charges in Ofer prison throughout the occupied territory.
The facility also contains adult prisoners, some of whom have been convicted regarding severe security violations and homicide.
There are around several hundred young Palestinian detainees detained within Israeli facilities, based on prison authority data.
Numerous remain uncharged and human rights groups, as well as the United Nations, say some have suffered mistreatment and torture.
Following Mohammed's release, the uncle stated the family would also continue fighting for justice for his cousin family member Sayfollah.
The dual national youth per medical officials was beaten to death by radical settlers following tensions in July.
At the time, the Israeli military said officials were investigating information regarding a civilian was deceased.
Both young men collaborated at their family's ice cream business based in Florida.
No indictments occurred for the cousin's murder.
"We expect the American government to protect our families," the uncle stated.