Mohammed Ibrahim, a 16-year-old Palestinian American, has been released from Israeli detention after more than nine months behind bars. His family and advocates say his detention highlights the ongoing Israeli human rights abuses against Palestinian youth in the occupied West Bank.

The teenager, originally from Florida, was 15 years old when arrested in February 2025 during a raid on his family home in the town of al-Mazraa ash-Sharqiya, near Ramallah. He was accused of throwing rocks at Israeli settlers, allegations he has consistently denied. During the raid, family members reported that Mohammed was blindfolded and beaten, and he was denied contact with his parents while in detention.

Health Concerns During Detention

While in prison, Mohammed’s health reportedly deteriorated significantly. He lost considerable weight and developed a skin infection due to poor conditions. His family expressed immense relief at his release:

“Words can’t describe the immense relief we have as a family right now, to have Mohammed in his parents’ arms,” said his uncle, Zeyad Kadur.
“We couldn’t believe Mohammed was free until his parents wrapped their arms around him and felt him safe.”

During his imprisonment, Israeli authorities did not allow visitation or direct contact with family. The family only received updates via US officials, who were granted limited access to the teenager.

US Advocacy and Pressure Campaign

Mohammed’s release came after months of advocacy from US lawmakers and civil rights groups. 27 US lawmakers signed a letter urging the Trump administration to push Israel for his release, while Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen actively raised awareness about the case.

Kadur emphasized the family’s distress, saying:

“For more than 9 months, our family has been living a horrific and endless nightmare, particularly Mohammed’s mother and father, who haven’t been able to see or touch their youngest child for nearly a year.”

The family thanked those who advocated for his freedom and plans to celebrate his belated 16th birthday, with his mother preparing his favorite meal.

Broader Implications

Mohammed Ibrahim’s case has drawn attention to the plight of Palestinian minors detained in Israeli jails, raising concerns about human rights violations, treatment of youth, and access to adequate medical care. Advocacy groups argue that such cases exemplify systemic issues in Israel’s treatment of Palestinian children in the occupied territories.

The teenager’s release is seen as a victory for international advocacy, highlighting the impact of coordinated pressure from lawmakers, civil rights organizations, and public awareness campaigns.