The Take Why did it take months to free a US teen from Israeli prison?
Dec 3, 2025
Zeyad Kadur, a Palestinian-American and uncle of Mohammed Ibrahim, shares his family's ordeal after Mohammed's arrest in the West Bank at just 15 years old. He recounts the shocking details of the raid by Israeli forces and the harsh conditions Mohammed faced in prison, including injuries and scabies. Zeyad highlights the broader issue of systemic detention of Palestinian children, revealing the painful reality behind military courts. He also discusses the family's hopes for Mohammed’s recovery and the inadequate U.S. government response throughout their struggle.
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Night Raid And Long Silence
- Zeyad Kadur describes Mohammed being taken from his bed at gunpoint, zip-tied and blindfolded by 25 masked Israeli soldiers at 3 a.m.
- Mohammed spent nine and a half months without family contact before being released on Thanksgiving Day.
Beaten Into A Confession
- Mohammed says he was beaten en route to the military camp and coerced into a false confession under threat of further beating.
- His family accepted a plea deal of guilty admission to secure his release under suspended sentencing.
Citizenship Offers Limited Protection
- Israel systematically prosecutes Palestinian children in military courts and hundreds remain detained, per Defense for Children International.
- U.S. citizenship slightly helped Mohammed but did not speed immediate treatment or basic rights compared with other detained children.