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, 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 commuted to 15 years after a reconciliation with the victim's family and a reduction for good behavior.

Hassin stated he traveled to Kurdistan during the war against ISIS with the intention of joining forces fighting the terrorist organization. "The war against ISIS was going on at that time, and I decided to come and see if I could join the fight," he explained, describing himself as a volunteer. He described his release as an "amazing feeling," akin to receiving "another chance at life."

His release was facilitated by extensive efforts over the years, led by American lawyer Alan Lewis, who worked on his case for over a decade. Lewis, accompanied by Hassin, noted passing the courthouse where Hassin's trial took place.

Efforts for Hassin's release involved Israeli Foreign Ministry officials, including former Deputy Director General for Consular Affairs Eyal Siso, as well as rabbis and members of the Jewish community in the United States. Hassin expressed gratitude to all those who worked for his freedom and hopes to travel to Israel next.