I write with urgent concern regarding the detention of an American child by Israeli Defense Forces in the village of Kafar Naema in the West Bank. This child, Ghassan Bashir Daraldeek, 12 years old, was detained after violent settler attacks and unauthorized raids of his village, has both asthma as well as a heart defect and urgently needs medical attention.
He was taken by Israeli soldiers on January 25th, 2025 and has been unlawfully held since.
The situation is dire. Detaining a vulnerable child, a US citizen, in a conflict zone is unacceptable. The physical and psychological risks are immense. The United States must act now to ensure the child’s immediate release. Neither the family nor their lawyers have been allowed to meet or speak with the child, and his current whereabouts are unknown.
Reports indicate that the village of Kafar Naema has been subjected to escalating settler violence and raids. The detention of this child, amidst such circumstances, is deeply troubling and raises urgent questions about the treatment of minors, particularly American citizens, in the region. The psychological and physical toll on a young individual subjected to detention in a conflict zone cannot be overstated.
As an elected official, you have the authority and responsibility to advocate for the rights and protection of American citizens abroad. I urge you to take immediate action by:
1. Demanding the child’s immediate release from detention through direct communication with Israeli authorities.
2. Ensuring diplomatic pressure is applied to address and prevent future violations of the rights of American citizens in the region.
3. Calling for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child’s detention and the broader context of settler violence in the area.
Time is critical. Please raise this issue with the State Department and other relevant agencies without delay. Protecting American citizens, especially children, is a moral and national imperative.
Thank you for your immediate attention. I look forward to your swift response.
