Israeli Freed From Iraqi Death Row After 11 Years

Benjamin Ben Limor (Hussain), an Israeli who spent 11 years imprisoned in Iraq, including a period under a death sentence, has recounted his harrowing experiences and expressed relief at his eventual release. He described constant fear for his life due to the presence of dangerous individuals and terrorists within the prison. Hussain stated that his Jewish identity became a direct threat, forcing him to request transfers to different prison sections. He also noted difficulties in obtaining kosher food and harsh living conditions.

His anxieties intensified following the October 7th Hamas attack, leading him to request a transfer to a more secure prison further away. Hussain expressed deep regret for traveling to the region in the first place, admitting he often thought his imprisonment would be his end. The complex legal and diplomatic efforts to secure his release were led by volunteer lawyer Allen Lawee, who worked for over a decade to overturn the death sentence, achieve his freedom, and facilitate his return to Israel.

The release involved a significant reconciliation agreement with the victim's family, costing approximately $300,000 in total, with $200,000 paid as part of the settlement. These funds were raised through donations from the Orthodox Jewish community, with a delegation from Monsey, New York, traveling to Kurdistan to participate in the reconciliation ceremony. Lawee expressed unwavering hope throughout the process, stating he knew from the beginning that Hussain would be freed.

Hussain's ordeal began in 2014 when he visited relatives in Kurdistan. In 2015, he was ambushed by a taxi driver who recognized him as Israeli and threatened to hand him over to ISIS. A struggle ensued, resulting in the driver's death from his injuries, which led to Hussain's arrest, torture, and eventual conviction. In 2020, he was sentenced to death by hanging, a sentence that was commuted in late 2025 following the complex reconciliation agreement, aided by an international campaign to fund the costs associated with the settlement.

Upon his return to Israel, Hussain plans to first visit the "Ash HaTorah" yeshiva near the Western Wall in Jerusalem to recite a prayer of thanksgiving and then resume his studies.