On 12 October 2015, Ahmad Manasra's life tragically changed. At just 13-years-old, him and his 15-year-old cousin, Hassan, were brutally attacked by Israeli settlers. Hassan had allegedly assaulted two Israeli settlers. He was shot and killed. Ahmad was struck on his head with a metal rod, run over by a motor vehicle, and berated by Israelis. He was then taken into Israeli custody where he allegedly received adequate medical care. However, Ahmad was later arrested and subjected to inhumane interrogation. He experienced physical and psychological abuse resulting in declining mental health. In 2021, a Doctors Without Borders psychiatrist was finally permitted to see Ahmad and diagnosed him with schizophrenia and depression with suicidal thoughts. The psychiatrist urged Ahmad’s immediate release and intensive psychiatric and psychological care. United Nations' human rights experts have also condemned Ahmad’s imprisonment. The Israeli Prison Service continues to hold Ahmad in solitary confinement despite acknowledging that he did not participate in the alleged attack against two Israeli settlers. 

The case of Ahmad Manasra is a representation of all Palestinians currently under Israeli occupation. This petition calls upon South African and international human rights organisations and governments worldwide to urgently intervene in securing the release of now 21-year-old Ahmad Manasra and all Palestinian hostages. We demand justice and freedom for him and all Palestinians.

Please join us in standing up for Ahmad's rights. Please join us in standing up for Palestine. Sign, share, and/or support this petition today! #FreePalestine #FreeAhmadManasra #StopTheGenocide