A Palestinian-American teenager, Mohammed Ibrahim, has been released after nine months in Israeli detention without charge. He was 15 years old when arrested in February in the Israeli-occupied West Bank during a visit from Florida. He was accused of throwing stones at Jewish settlers, an allegation he has previously denied.Upon his release, Mohammed, now 16, was transported to a hospital for medical evaluation, according to statements from his relatives. Family members reported that he appeared pale and underweight, and indicated he had contracted conditions during his period of detention.
Family and Official Reactions
Mohammed's uncle, Zeyad Kadur, issued a statement conveying the family's relief and their focus on Mohammed receiving necessary medical attention. He also stated that the family believes Israeli soldiers had no right to apprehend Mohammed.
The US State Department has acknowledged Mohammed's release, stating it welcomes the news and will continue to provide consular support to his family. Previously, 27 US lawmakers had petitioned the State Department and President Donald Trump to intervene in the case. Mohammed's father, Zahar Ibrahim, had stated to the BBC that his son confessed to throwing stones after allegedly being subjected to physical coercion by soldiers. Mr. Ibrahim also reported not having had contact with his son since February, relying on court documents for information regarding his detention.
Detention Context
Mohammed was held without charge at Ofer prison in the West Bank. This facility houses both adult prisoners, including those convicted of serious offenses, and approximately 350 Palestinian child security detainees, according to the Israeli Prison Service. Human rights organizations and the United Nations have documented reports of abuse and torture among some of these detainees.
Related Advocacy
Following Mohammed's release, Mr. Kadur stated the family plans to continue seeking justice for his cousin, Sayfollah Musallet. Sayfollah, a 20-year-old dual US citizen, was reported by the Palestinian health ministry to have died in July following a confrontation with Israeli settlers. The Israeli military stated at the time that authorities were investigating reports of a Palestinian civilian fatality. No charges have been filed in connection with Sayfollah's death. Both Mohammed and Sayfollah had worked together at their family's ice cream business in Tampa, Florida.