**Palestinian Teen Attacker Freed After Nine Years in Israeli Prison**
In a significant development, Ahmed Manasra, a Palestinian man who was jailed by Israel for an attack when he was just 13 years old, has been released after nearly a decade in prison. The 23-year-old’s release comes as a relief to human rights organizations that have been advocating for his freedom.
According to reports, Manasra and his 15-year-old cousin, Hassan, brandished large kitchen knives in a Jewish settlement in Israeli-annexed East Jerusalem in 2015. While Hassan was shot by police after injuring a 13-year-old Israeli boy, Manasra was convicted of attempted homicide and sentenced to 9-and-a-half years in prison.
Manasra’s case has been widely criticized by human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, which accused the Israeli authorities of violating international law. The organization pointed out that Manasra was interrogated by Israeli security staff while he was just 13 years old, without access to a lawyer or a parent. He was also subjected to solitary confinement for nearly two years and denied his right to education.
**Violations of Human Rights**
Manasra’s case highlights the serious human rights violations that occur within Israeli prisons. According to Adalah, an Israeli NGO, Manasra was only allowed to see his immediate relatives through a glass window, without any physical contact. He was also denied his right to education and other basic rights were taken away from him.
The conditions inside Israeli jails have become increasingly harsh in recent years, according to recently released Palestinian prisoners. Many of those freed during the recent ceasefire in Gaza appeared thin and sick, and some needed immediate hospital treatment. The Palestinians have complained of beatings, overcrowding, and poor conditions.
**Health Concerns**
Manasra’s health status is currently unknown, but his lawyer has stated that his priority is to treat him, diagnose his condition, and monitor his health to minimize any side effects. This concern is shared by many who have been released from Israeli prisons in recent years, with reports of extreme malnutrition and other health problems.
**Commentary**
The release of Ahmed Manasra after nine years in prison serves as a reminder of the serious human rights violations that occur within Israeli prisons. The case highlights the need for Israel to take immediate action to address these concerns and ensure that all prisoners are treated with dignity and respect.
As the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians continues, it is essential that we prioritize the human rights and well-being of all individuals involved. The release of Manasra is a welcome development, but there is still much work to be done to ensure justice and fairness for all.
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