Israel sentences and fines 14-year-old girl

The Israeli military court in Ofer sentenced the imprisoned 14-year-old Malak Al-Khatib, from Betin in Ramallah, to two months in prison and fined her $1,528, the Ahrar Centre for the Study of Prisoners and Human Rights reported.

Al-Khatib’s family told Ahrar, in an exclusive interview, that the court issued the sentence after striking a deal.

Malak, an eighth grader in school, was arrested on December 31, near her school for allegedly throwing rocks at the occupation forces. Israel extended her detention twice and she was transferred to HaSharon Prison.

The Director of the Ahrar Centre Fouad Al-Khafsh condemned the sentence saying he considered it unfair. He said the sentence does not take into account that Malak is a child who is already suffering psychologically due to her extended imprisonment. Al-Khafsh stated that the centre launched a campaign in cooperation with legal and media organisations to pressure authorities to release her.

The charges against Malak include throwing rocks, obstructing the road and the possession of a knife. She has been imprisoned for 22 consecutive days.