East Jerusalem: Ahmad Manasra, a Palestinian man arrested controversially at the age of 13, has been released after spending nearly ten years in Israeli jail, his lawyer Khaled Zabarqa confirmed to CNN.
Manasra was reunited with his family on Thursday, marking the end of a long and highly debated incarceration. "Ahmad has completed his 10-year sentence and he is a free person now," Zabarqa stated. However, he also noted that Israeli authorities have placed restrictions on the family, preventing them from holding a welcome ceremony for Ahmad or speaking to the media about his release.
The case dates back to 2015 when the then 13-year-old Ahmad was apprehended alongside his cousin Hassan following a stabbing attack on two Israelis in East Jerusalem. Hassan was shot dead at the scene, while Ahmad was severely injured after being struck by a car.
The circumstances surrounding Ahmad's arrest and subsequent interrogation drew significant international attention and condemnation. Footage emerged allegedly showing crowds shouting abuse at the injured and motionless young boy. Further videos reportedly depicted Israeli officials interrogating a visibly shaken and vulnerable Ahmad under duress, according to the Palestinian Prisoner’s Society.
Manasra's detention and the handling of his case became a focal point for human rights organizations and international bodies, raising concerns about the treatment of Palestinian minors within the Israeli legal system. His release, while marking the end of his sentence, is likely to continue to fuel discussions about justice and the rights of children in conflict zones.
No comments:
Post a Comment