American-Palestinian Adolescent Liberated Following Nine Months in Israel's Custody
Zaher Ibrahim
An American-Palestinian teenager having endured 270 days in Israel's custody without being charged has been freed.
The teenager Mohammed Ibrahim was fifteen years old during his detention last February within the occupied West Bank, where he was visiting from his Florida home under suspicion of rock throwing against settlement residents, allegations he repeatedly contested.
American diplomatic officials said it welcomed the teenager's freedom.
Now sixteen years old, was taken to hospital right after being freed, according to close relatives.
Family described him as pale, underweight, and is suffering from conditions acquired while detained.
In a statement, Mohammed's uncle conveyed their "overwhelming sense of relief".
Family member Zeyad Kadur stated the family experienced "surviving a terrible, unending nightmare" during the entire detention period.
"Right now, we're concentrating on providing Mohammed with the immediate medical attention he needs after experiencing Israel's abuse and cruel circumstances for months."
The state department said it would continue to provide consular support to the teenager's relatives.
{"The Trump Administration has no higher priority to the protection and welfare of US citizens"," it added.
Several congressional representatives had signed a letter to diplomatic officials and President Donald Trump, urging greater action for his freedom.
Mohammed's parent, parent of four children managing a frozen treats business based in Tampa, previously said Mohammed acknowledged allegations about rock throwing due to physical abuse.
He had not seen or spoken to Mohammed following the detention, receiving updates exclusively about his son's condition through judicial records.
Mohammed was held without charge within Ofer penitentiary on the West Bank.
Additionally housing adult prisoners, including individuals found guilty of serious terrorism offences including killings.
There are around 350 Palestinian child security detainees being held in Israeli jails, based on prison authority data.
Numerous remain uncharged and human rights groups, and international organizations, document cases involving physical abuse and torture.
Subsequent to his liberation, the uncle stated they would maintain their efforts demanding accountability for their family member Sayfollah Musallet.
This young American-Palestinian who the Palestinian health ministry said died from beating by settlement residents following tensions in July.
At the time, the Israeli military said they were examining accounts of a Palestinian had died.
Both young men collaborated at their family's ice cream business in Tampa, Florida.
No one has been charged for the cousin's murder.
"We anticipate the American government to safeguard our relatives," Mr Kadur said.