Israeli-Canadian Freed From Iraqi Prison After 12 Years, Sought ISIS Fight

Ben Hassin, an Israeli-Canadian citizen, has been released from prison in Sulaymaniyah, Iraqi Kurdistan, after serving nearly 12 years. Hassin was convicted of killing a local taxi driver in 2014, an act he claims was self-defense after the driver realized he was Israeli or heard him speaking Hebrew and felt threatened. Initially sentenced to death, his sentence was later reduced to 15 years after a reconciliation with the victim's family and further shortened due to good behavior.

Hassin stated he traveled to Kurdistan during the war against ISIS with the intention of joining forces fighting the terrorist organization, though he did not officially enlist. "It was just like... just as a volunteer, to help the fighters," he explained.

Following his release, Hassin expressed profound relief, telling Channel 12 News, "This is one of the most amazing feelings. It's like I've been given another chance at life." He was accompanied by his lawyer, Alan Lewis, an American attorney who spearheaded efforts for his release over the years.

Efforts for Hassin's release involved Lewis, former Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs official Eyal Siso, and members of the Jewish community in the United States. Hassin hopes to travel to Israel following his release.