Abdul Rahman Al-Qaradawi, an Egyptian-Turkish poet, faces extradition requests from Egypt and the UAE after being detained by Lebanese authorities. His arrest followed critical comments about these governments made during a December visit to Syria. Amnesty International urgently calls for the Lebanese government to reject the extradition requests, citing a genuine concern for his safety and rights, emphasizing that such criticism is not a crime but an expression of free speech.
In a statement, Sara Hashash, Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for the Middle East and North Africa, stressed that extraditing Al-Qaradawi would endanger him with the threat of enforced disappearance and torture if sent back to Egypt or the UAE. She argues that international law prohibits returning individuals to places where they face persecution, and that Lebanon must uphold its commitments to human rights rather than prioritizing political connections with these nations.
As Lebanon deliberates on Al-Qaradawi’s fate, the case underlines the country’s stance on freedom of expression. Al-Qaradawi, who has familial ties to significant Islamic scholarship, has faced illegal detention partly due to a politically motivated conviction in absentia in Egypt. His defense team has engaged UN Special Procedures to halt the extradition efforts, highlighting the urgent need for Lebanon to protect human rights over diplomatic ties.
Abdul Rahman Al-Qaradawi, a detained Egyptian-Turkish poet, faces extradition requests from Egypt and the UAE after criticizing these governments. Amnesty International has urged Lebanese authorities to reject the requests due to potential human rights abuses. The case highlights Lebanon’s stance on free speech and rights protection amid political pressures.
The situation surrounding Abdul Rahman Al-Qaradawi underscores a critical intersection of political and human rights issues. By rejecting the extradition requests from Egypt and the UAE, Lebanon can reaffirm its commitment to freedom of expression. The outcome of this case is expected to resonate far beyond its borders, highlighting the region’s ongoing struggles against oppressive governmental actions.
Abdul Rahman Al-Qaradawi was detained by Lebanese forces following a visit to Syria where he criticized the governments of Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. His arrest relates to an unjust Egyptian court verdict from 2017, placing him at risk of serious human rights abuses if extradited. Amnesty International’s call for non-extradition reflects a broader concern for the rights of critics in oppressive regimes, making this case pivotal for Lebanon’s international image as a defender of free speech.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
