Israel has released Palestinian poet and author Mosab Abu Toha after arresting at a checkpoint while attempting to leave northern Gaza. Abu Toha, known for his poignant writings about life under bombardment in the Jabalia refugee camp, was reportedly beaten during his detention, according to his close friend, Palestinian-Canadian lawyer Diana Buttu.
The poet, a contributor to the New Yorker magazine, was seized by Israeli forces along with scores of other Palestinian men at the checkpoint on Sunday.
Abu Toha, accompanied by his wife and children, was en route to Gaza's southern border based on information from the US embassy in Israel, indicating that he and his family were on a list of US citizens allowed to cross into Egypt. One of his children is a US citizen, having been born in the United States.
Abu Toha's arrest sparked widespread concern and condemnation, with PEN America emphasizing the importance of freedom of expression for poets and writers. David Remnick, editor of the New Yorker, confirmed Abu Toha's release and his reunion with his family back in Gaza.
The poet had gained international recognition for his work, with a collection of his poetry published in English in the US earning him acclaim, including being a finalist in the National Book Critics Circle award and winning an American Book award this year.
Known for his accessible yet powerful poetry, Abu Toha had previously described in the New Yorker the challenges he faced while attempting to salvage his book collection from his bombed home in Beit Lahia. The poignant account depicted the desperation of a poet seeking solace amidst the ruins of conflict.
Abu Toha and his family had sought refuge in the Jabalia camp after their home was bombed, expressing the emotional toll of living under constant threat. In a heartfelt article published on November 6, he conveyed the sense of being trapped in a cage, feeling the weight of despair as he awaited a ceasefire.