In a deeply emotional turn of events, Ahmad Manasra, a Palestinian man who was imprisoned by Israeli authorities as a child, has finally been released after enduring over nine years of incarceration. Arrested at just 13 years old in connection with a stabbing incident he did not commit, Ahmad’s story has become symbolic of the treatment of Palestinian youth under Israeli military law.
Background of the Case
Ahmad Manasra was arrested in 2015 when he was just 13 years old. He was with his 15-year-old cousin, Hassan Manasra, in East Jerusalem’s Pisgat Ze’ev neighborhood when Hassan stabbed two Israeli citizens.
Though Ahmad did not participate in the stabbing—something even Israeli courts acknowledged—he was still convicted of attempted murder. During the incident, Ahmad was brutally assaulted and run over by an Israeli driver, sustaining severe head injuries and internal bleeding. A graphic video of the young boy lying on the street, bleeding and being mocked by bystanders, went viral at the time, drawing international outrage.
Mental Health Concerns and Legal Appeals
While serving his sentence, Ahmad’s mental health deteriorated significantly. He was diagnosed with schizophrenia and exhibited signs of severe psychological distress. His legal team, led by Khaled Zabarqa, made multiple appeals for his early release on humanitarian grounds, all of which were rejected by Israeli authorities.
Human rights organizations such as Amnesty International and Defense for Children International – Palestine had repeatedly called for his immediate release, citing the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which prohibits the imprisonment of minors under such circumstances. You can read more on the Amnesty International website.
Release and Reactions
On Thursday, Ahmad Manasra, now 23 years old, walked free after completing his nine-and-a-half-year prison sentence. His lawyer confirmed the release, stating that while justice was long delayed, it has finally arrived.
The news has sparked a wave of reactions across social media, with many hailing Ahmad as a survivor of injustice. Human rights advocates continue to push for reform in the way Palestinian children are treated under Israeli law.
Implications of His Case
Ahmad’s case has become a global symbol of human rights violations. It highlights the harsh realities of the Israeli juvenile justice system, especially its handling of Palestinian minors. His story has also reignited conversations about the mental health crisis in prisons, the importance of child protection, and the need for accountability in conflict zones.
For more related human rights content, check out our article on Amnesty International’s work and impact.
Related Posts on LMSINT MEDIA
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- Amnesty International: Mission, Work & Achievements
- Mental Health Awareness and Global Impacts
Conclusion
Ahmad Manasra’s release is not just the end of a prison term—it is a reminder of the need for justice reform, especially when it comes to children in conflict zones. His journey, marked by pain, resilience, and global attention, stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit under oppression.
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