The family of Samaher Esmail, a Palestinian-American detained by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in the West Bank, has alleged that she was beaten and denied medication while in Israeli custody.
According to a statement released on their behalf, Esmail, 46, was forcibly taken from her home by IDF members and beaten severely. The family also claimed that her home was destroyed during the raid.
Despite having her prescription medication with her at the time of her arrest, the IDF has reportedly refused to administer it to her. Additionally, US officials have not been granted consular access to Esmail more than a week after her detention, despite daily requests from the US Embassy.
Palestinian-American Family (Credits: Middle East Monitor)
The IDF confirmed Esmail’s detention, stating that she was arrested for “incitement on social media,” but did not address the allegations of mistreatment made by her family.
State Department spokesperson Matt Miller stated that he could not comment on the specific claims due to privacy laws but emphasized that the US seeks consular access and fair treatment for detainees. He assured that the US is actively engaged in the case, despite his inability to provide detailed information.
The IDF stated that Esmail was arrested during a battalion operation in the area of the village of Silwad to arrest terror suspects on February 5.
The family of Samaher Esmail, a Palestinian-American detained by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in the West Bank, has alleged that she was beaten and denied medication while in Israeli custody.
According to a statement released on their behalf, Esmail, 46, was forcibly taken from her home by IDF members and beaten severely. The family also claimed that her home was destroyed during the raid.
Despite having her prescription medication with her at the time of her arrest, the IDF has reportedly refused to administer it to her. Additionally, US officials have not been granted consular access to Esmail more than a week after her detention, despite daily requests from the US Embassy.
The IDF confirmed Esmail’s detention, stating that she was arrested for “incitement on social media,” but did not address the allegations of mistreatment made by her family.
State Department spokesperson Matt Miller stated that he could not comment on the specific claims due to privacy laws but emphasized that the US seeks consular access and fair treatment for detainees. He assured that the US is actively engaged in the case, despite his inability to provide detailed information.
The IDF stated that Esmail was arrested during a battalion operation in the area of the village of Silwad to arrest terror suspects on February 5.
