Overview
- Mohammed Zaher Ibrahim, 16, was released on Thursday after a delayed hearing, ending more than nine months in custody following his February arrest in the West Bank.
- Israeli officials accused him of throwing rocks at settlers; he initially confessed but later said in an affidavit the confession was coerced under threats of beatings.
- Relatives report major weight loss, scabies, and post-release hospital treatment, while the Israel Prison Service says it is not aware of those claims and cites privacy and security limits on sharing information.
- The U.S. State Department says it provided consular support to his family, and 27 Democratic lawmakers publicly urged the administration to press for his release.
- The case drew wider attention after his cousin, Sayfollah Musallet, was killed in July during a confrontation with Israeli settlers, reflecting broader tensions in the West Bank.