Anderson calls for release of Palestinian teenager Ahed Tamimi

Sinn Féin MEP Martina Anderson has called for the immediate release of Palestinian teenager Ahed Tamimi who will turn 17 in an Israeli prison tomorrow. 

Martina Anderson said: 

"Tomorrow is the birthday of Ahed Tamimi, a Palestinian teenager who was arrested for standing up to two armed Israeli soldiers at her home on Tuesday 19th December.

"As a result she is currently being held in an Israeli prison. 

"The case of Ahed Tamimi and her family is an illustration of how Palestinians are treated by occupying Israeli forces. Israeli soldiers intimidate, they attack and they oppress.

"It is completely unacceptable that children like Ahed Tamimi are arrested, detained and charged with assault. Ahed was defending her family and her home from brutal, aggressive oppressors. She was not prepared to bow down, and for that, she is being persecuted.

"Ahed will turn 17 while in an Israeli prison cell. Unfortunately many other Palestinian children and young people will also be celebrating their birthdays in Israeli prisons. 

"The international community have a duty to uphold the rights of children everywhere and must call on the Israeli authorities to release Ahed Tamini immediately."