Together For Justice

Author: Publisher2026

  • Continued Detention of Saudi Activist Abdulaziz Al-Odah: A Stark Injustice

    Continued Detention of Saudi Activist Abdulaziz Al-Odah: A Stark Injustice

    Abdulaziz Al-Odah, a young Saudi activist and outspoken supporter of Palestinian rights, remains in arbitrary detention despite the completion of his prison sentence more than two years ago. This continued detention underscores a gross miscarriage of justice and highlights the Saudi regime’s ongoing repression of free speech and political dissent.

    Background of the Case
    In September 2019, Abdulaziz Al-Odah was arrested for his peaceful expression of opinions, particularly his vocal support for Palestinian rights and his staunch opposition to Saudi Arabia’s normalization of relations with Israel. On April 24, 2021, the Specialized Criminal Court in Riyadh sentenced Al-Odah to five years in prison, with a two-and-a-half-year suspension. Given that he had already been detained for more than two years by the time of sentencing, he should have been released in March 2022.

    Unjust Prosecution and Conviction
    Al-Odah’s charges were based solely on his social media activities, where he consistently defended Palestinian rights and criticized the Saudi government’s moves towards normalization with Israel. His conviction and the subsequent sentence were clearly politically motivated, aimed at silencing dissent and discouraging other activists from speaking out on controversial issues.

    Continued Arbitrary Detention
    Despite the completion of his sentence over two years ago, Al-Odah remains behind bars. This prolonged detention is not only a violation of Saudi and international law but also a stark indication of the arbitrary nature of his imprisonment. The Saudi authorities’ refusal to release him reflects a broader pattern of repressing dissent and punishing those who dare to challenge official policies.

    A Defender of Palestinian Rights
    Abdulaziz Al-Odah is well-known for his unwavering support for the Palestinian cause. He has been a vocal critic of the normalization of relations with Israel, a stance that has become increasingly dangerous in the current political climate in Saudi Arabia. His detention and continued imprisonment serve as a warning to others who might consider speaking out against the government’s policies.

    International Response and Call for Action
    The international community, human rights organizations, and advocates for free speech must condemn the continued detention of Abdulaziz Al-Odah. His case is emblematic of the broader crackdown on free expression in Saudi Arabia, where individuals are punished for exercising their basic human rights.

    The continued detention of Abdulaziz Al-Odah is a grave injustice that must not be ignored. His imprisonment highlights the repressive measures employed by the Saudi regime to stifle dissent and silence activists. It is imperative that the international community calls for his immediate and unconditional release. Abdulaziz Al-Odah should be celebrated, not imprisoned, for his courageous defense of Palestinian rights and his principled stance against injustice. The Saudi authorities must be held accountable for their actions and pressured to respect the fundamental rights of all individuals, including the right to free speech and peaceful protest.

  • Silenced and Missing: Dr. Amer Ali Yahya Al Amer’s Unjust Detention in Saudi Arabia

    Silenced and Missing: Dr. Amer Ali Yahya Al Amer’s Unjust Detention in Saudi Arabia

    In February 2019, Saudi authorities raided the home of Dr. Amer Ali Yahya Al Amer in Abha, forcibly detaining him and taking him to an undisclosed location. Since then, all news of Dr. Al Amer has been cut off, and his whereabouts remain unknown. This enforced disappearance is a stark reminder of the ongoing human rights crisis in Saudi Arabia, where dissent is met with brutal repression, and the fate of many political prisoners is shrouded in mystery.

    The Enforced Disappearance of Dr. Amer Ali Yahya Al Amer
    Dr. Amer Ali Yahya Al Amer is one of many victims of Saudi Arabia’s relentless crackdown on dissent. His arrest and subsequent disappearance follow a familiar pattern of intimidation, unlawful detention, and suppression of free speech that has come to define the human rights landscape in the kingdom. Despite numerous calls from international human rights organizations, the Saudi government continues to deny any information about his detention, raising grave concerns about his safety and well-being.

    The Broader Human Rights Crisis in Saudi Arabia
    The case of Dr. Al Amer is not an isolated incident. Saudi Arabia’s human rights record has been under severe scrutiny, especially under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s rule. Reports of torture, unfair trials, and long prison sentences for peaceful activists are rampant. The authorities have shown a blatant disregard for international human rights norms, using broad anti-terrorism laws to silence critics and activists. This systemic repression is designed to instill fear and prevent any form of opposition.

    Call to Action
    Together for Justice urgently calls upon the international community, human rights organizations, and concerned citizens to take action. The enforced disappearance of Dr. Amer Ali Yahya Al Amer must not be allowed to continue unnoticed. We demand his immediate release and call for an end to the arbitrary detention of all political prisoners in Saudi Arabia. Here’s how you can help:

    Raise Awareness: Use social media platforms to highlight Dr. Al Amer’s case. Share information, use hashtags like #FreeDrAmer, and urge others to do the same.
    Contact Your Representatives: Write to your local and national representatives, urging them to pressure the Saudi government for the release of Dr. Al Amer and other political prisoners.

    Support Human Rights Organisations: Donate to or volunteer with organizations that are working to protect human rights in Saudi Arabia. Your support can help amplify the voices of those who have been silenced.

    Sign Petitions: Participate in and promote petitions calling for the release of Dr. Al Amer and other political detainees in Saudi Arabia.

    The enforced disappearance of Dr. Amer Ali Yahya Al Amer is a gross violation of human rights that demands immediate action. By raising our voices collectively, we can pressure the Saudi authorities to end their oppressive practices and release all political prisoners. Let us stand together for justice and human rights, ensuring that the world does not forget those who have been unjustly silenced.

  • Seven Years Too Long: Demand Freedom for Essam Al-Zamel

    Seven Years Too Long: Demand Freedom for Essam Al-Zamel

    Together for Justice urgently calls for the immediate release of Saudi political prisoner Essam Al-Zamel, who has been unjustly detained since September 2017. His continued imprisonment highlights the broader issue of political repression and human rights violations in Saudi Arabia.
    Background
    Essam Al-Zamel, a respected Saudi economist, was arrested in September 2017 as part of a wider crackdown on intellectuals, activists, and reform advocates in Saudi Arabia. In 2020, after three years of pre-trial detention, he was sentenced to 15 years in prison on charges including “undermining the social fabric” and “endangering national unity.” These charges stem from his critical analysis of the Saudi government’s economic policies and Vision 2030 reform plans.
    Al-Zamel is recognized for his insightful economic analyses and his advocacy for transparency and reforms within Saudi Arabia. His arrest and subsequent sentencing have drawn widespread condemnation from international human rights organizations, which have highlighted the lack of due process and transparency in his trial.
    Human Rights Violations
    Al-Zamel’s case exemplifies the severe restrictions on freedom of expression and the harsh penalties faced by those who criticize the Saudi government. His detention has been marked by arbitrary charges and a lack of fair trial guarantees. Furthermore, reports indicate that he has been subjected to poor detention conditions, including inadequate medical care and periods of solitary confinement, raising serious concerns about his health and well-being.
    Call to Action
    Together for Justice demands the immediate and unconditional release of Essam Al-Zamel and all other political prisoners in Saudi Arabia. We call upon the international community, including governments, human rights organizations, and civil society groups, to:
    Pressure Saudi Authorities: Urge the Saudi government to release Essam Al-Zamel and other political prisoners, and to respect fundamental rights to freedom of expression, assembly, and association.
    Raise Awareness: Highlight the case of Essam Al-Zamel through media coverage, social media campaigns, and public statements to draw global attention to his plight and the ongoing political repression in Saudi Arabia.
    Support Human Rights Defenders: Provide support and protection for human rights defenders and activists in Saudi Arabia who face significant risks for their peaceful advocacy.
    Conclusion
    The continued imprisonment of Essam Al-Zamel underscores the urgent need for judicial and political reforms in Saudi Arabia. Together for Justice stands in solidarity with all individuals unjustly imprisoned for their peaceful activism and calls for an immediate end to the repression of free speech and political dissent.

  • Urgent Call for Justice: Preacher Muhammad Al-Shannar Suffers Grave Human Rights Violations in Saudi Arabia

    Urgent Call for Justice: Preacher Muhammad Al-Shannar Suffers Grave Human Rights Violations in Saudi Arabia

    Together for Justice urgently calls for immediate international intervention regarding the severe human rights violations committed against preacher Muhammad Al-Shannar, who has been unjustly detained in Saudi Arabia since September 2017. This case highlights the ongoing and systematic repression of dissenting voices and the blatant disregard for human rights within the Kingdom.

    Violations Faced by Muhammad Al-Shannar:

    1. Insult and Torture:
      Muhammad Al-Shannar has endured severe physical and psychological abuse. Reports indicate that he has been subjected to torture, which contravenes the United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, to which Saudi Arabia is a signatory.
    2. Forced Disappearance:
      For five harrowing months, Al-Shannar’s whereabouts were unknown. This forced disappearance left his family in a state of anguish and uncertainty, violating international laws that protect individuals from arbitrary detention and enforced disappearance.
    3. Deprivation of Communication:
      Throughout his detention, Al-Shannar has been systematically denied communication with his family. This isolation aims to break his spirit and cut him off from external support, violating his basic human right to contact and communicate with loved ones.
    4. Denial of Legal Representation:
      Despite the grave nature of the charges against him, Al-Shannar has been deprived of his right to appoint a lawyer. This denial impedes his ability to prepare an adequate defense, violating his right to a fair trial as enshrined in international human rights law.
    5. Procrastination in Trial:
      The Saudi authorities have continuously delayed Al-Shannar’s trial, leaving him in a prolonged state of uncertainty and arbitrary detention. This procrastination violates his right to a prompt and fair trial, further exacerbating his suffering. Call for Immediate Action:

    Together for Justice demands the immediate and unconditional release of Muhammad Al-Shannar. We urge the international community, human rights organisations, and concerned governments to:

    1. Condemn the Arbitrary Detention:
      Publicly denounce the arbitrary detention and human rights violations committed against Muhammad Al-Shannar.
    2. Pressure Saudi Authorities:
      Apply diplomatic and economic pressure on Saudi Arabia to release Al-Shannar and other prisoners of conscience.
    3. Ensure Accountability:
      Demand an independent investigation into the allegations of torture and ill-treatment, holding those responsible accountable.
    4. Support Victims and Families:
      Provide support to the families of those detained and disappeared, ensuring they receive the necessary legal and psychological assistance.
  • Urgent Call for the Release of Academic Dr. Abdelrahman Alyoubi

    Urgent Call for the Release of Academic Dr. Abdelrahman Alyoubi

    The arbitrary detention of academic Dr. Abdelrahman Alyoubi, the former President of King Abdulaziz University, by Saudi security forces since July 2022, is a severe violation of human rights and an alarming display of repression. Dr. Alyoubi has been held without trial, in inhumane conditions, and his whereabouts remain unknown.

    Dr. Abdelrahman Alyoubi was arrested due to his opinions, a clear indicator of the Saudi authorities’ intolerance for free speech and dissent. Since his arrest, he has been denied basic human rights, including the right to access a lawyer and communicate with his family. The lack of transparency and information about his detention is deeply concerning and highlights the severe human rights abuses prevalent in Saudi Arabia.

    The conditions of Dr. Alyoubi’s detention are inhumane and lack basic humanity. Reports suggest that detainees like him are subjected to harsh and degrading treatment, deprived of adequate medical care, and kept in solitary confinement. These conditions violate international laws and treaties, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, both of which guarantee the right to fair treatment and due process.

    The arbitrary arrest and continued detention of Dr. Alyoubi, without trial or formal charges, underscore the broader issue of repression and lack of due process in Saudi Arabia. This case is not an isolated incident but part of a pattern of systematic human rights violations targeting academics, activists, and anyone who dares to express dissenting opinions.

    Human rights organizations, including Together for Justice Human Rights Group, strongly condemn the detention of Dr. Abdelrahman Alyoubi and call for his immediate release. We urge the international community to hold the Saudi government accountable for these gross human rights abuses and to demand transparency and justice for all prisoners of conscience.

    The international community must not remain silent in the face of such blatant disregard for human rights. We call on global leaders, human rights organisations, and concerned citizens to join us in advocating for the release of Dr. Alyoubi and all others who are unjustly detained in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi authorities must be pressured to adhere to international human rights standards and to respect the basic rights and freedoms of all individuals.

  • Saudi Arabia’s Crackdown on Free Speech: The Case of Dr. Qasim Al-Almai

    Saudi Arabia’s Crackdown on Free Speech: The Case of Dr. Qasim Al-Almai

    Together for Justice is deeply concerned about the continued detention and unjust sentencing of Dr. Qasim Al-Qathrdi Al-Almai, a respected academic and advocate for human rights in Saudi Arabia. Dr. Al-Almai, Professor of the Holy Quran and its Sciences at King Khalid University and President of the Tarteel Association for the Memorization of the Holy Quran, was arbitrarily arrested in July 2021 by Saudi security forces for exercising his right to freedom of speech.

    Dr. Al-Almai has been held without trial for years, subjected to severe violations of his human and legal rights. His detention was marked by a complete denial of access to legal counsel, a blatant disregard for due process, and a lack of transparency. After years of unjust detention, he was sentenced to eight years in prison following a secret and unfair trial.

    This harsh sentence, handed down in a manner that flagrantly disregards international human rights standards, reflects the broader crackdown on freedom of expression in Saudi Arabia. The treatment of Dr. Al-Almai is indicative of a disturbing trend where individuals are punished for their opinions and peaceful advocacy.

    Together for Justice condemns this gross miscarriage of justice and calls for the immediate and unconditional release of Dr. Qasim Al-Almai. We urge the Saudi authorities to adhere to international human rights norms, including the right to a fair trial, freedom of expression, and access to legal representation.

    The international community must stand in solidarity with Dr. Al-Almai and others who are unjustly detained for exercising their fundamental rights. Together for Justice will continue to advocate for his release and highlight the ongoing human rights abuses in Saudi Arabia.

  • Saudi Authorities Must Release Dr. Malek Al-Ahmad

    Saudi Authorities Must Release Dr. Malek Al-Ahmad

    The arbitrary detention of academic Dr. Malek Al-Ahmad by Saudi authorities since 2017 is a grave injustice and a stark reminder of the repressive environment in the Kingdom. Dr. Al-Ahmad was arrested during the harsh crackdown in September 2017, which saw the arrest of dozens of activists, preachers, academics, and journalists. His crime? Expressing his opinion on the need to reduce the rampant corruption in Saudi media.

    Since the rise of Mohammed bin Salman to power, the pace of arrests and repression has increased at an unprecedented rate. Individuals who dare to voice dissenting opinions or advocate for reform are systematically silenced through arbitrary detention and harsh punishments. The case of Dr. Malek Al-Ahmad exemplifies the severe crackdown on free expression and human rights in Saudi Arabia.

    Dr. Malek Al-Ahmad’s detention is a clear violation of international human rights laws and treaties to which Saudi Arabia is a signatory. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, in Article 19, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), in Articles 19 and 21, both guarantee the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. By imprisoning Dr. Al-Ahmad for his peaceful advocacy against corruption, Saudi Arabia is blatantly disregarding its international obligations.

    Human rights organizations, including Together for Justice, have repeatedly condemned these actions and called for the immediate release of all prisoners of conscience in the Kingdom. The detention of Dr. Malek Al-Ahmad and others like him undermines the principles of justice and human dignity and erodes trust in the Saudi justice system.

    Together for Justice urges the international community to take a firm stand against these ongoing human rights abuses. We call on global leaders, human rights organizations, and concerned citizens to demand the immediate and unconditional release of Dr. Malek Al-Ahmad and all other prisoners of conscience in Saudi Arabia.

    The world cannot remain silent in the face of such blatant violations of human rights. It is imperative that we stand together to advocate for justice and the protection of fundamental freedoms. Dr. Malek Al-Ahmad’s case is a poignant reminder of the urgent need for international action to hold the Saudi authorities accountable for their repressive actions.

  • Four Years Since the Arrest of Educational Advocate Ahmed Lafi Al-Mutairi

    Four Years Since the Arrest of Educational Advocate Ahmed Lafi Al-Mutairi

    Together for Justice is deeply concerned about the ongoing detention of educational advocate Ahmed Lafi Al-Mutairi, who was arrested by Saudi authorities in May 2020 for expressing his opinions on Twitter. Four years have passed without any updates or information on his current condition, raising serious concerns about his wellbeing and the lack of transparency in his case.

    Al-Mutairi’s arrest is part of a wider crackdown on freedom of expression in Saudi Arabia. Numerous individuals have been detained for voicing their opinions on social media, a troubling trend that undermines basic human rights. The disappearance of Al-Mutairi, a respected figure in the educational community, has alarmed human rights organizations, educators, and activists globally.

    Together for Justice urges the Saudi authorities to immediately disclose information about Al-Mutairi’s condition and ensure his right to a fair trial. The continued detention of individuals for peacefully expressing their views is a clear violation of international human rights standards, including the right to freedom of expression and a fair and public hearing.

    The organization is particularly concerned about Al-Mutairi’s physical and mental health. His family and colleagues have been left in a state of anguish, unable to ascertain his status or ensure his safety. This lack of information only exacerbates their suffering and underscores the urgent need for transparency and justice.

    Together for Justice calls on the international community to pressure the Saudi government to uphold its human rights obligations and release Ahmed Lafi Al-Mutairi. His unjust detention not only harms him and his family but also sets a dangerous precedent for academic freedom and freedom of speech in the region.

    The case of Ahmed Lafi Al-Mutairi highlights the ongoing challenges faced by those who dare to speak out against oppression. It is a stark reminder of the need for global advocacy and solidarity in the fight for human rights and justice.

  • Human Rights Under Attack: The Case of Nassar Al-Faridi

    Human Rights Under Attack: The Case of Nassar Al-Faridi

    The Saudi authorities’ arrest of citizen Nassar Al-Faridi since the beginning of November 2022 is yet another glaring example of the regime’s oppressive tactics to silence dissent and crush peaceful advocacy. Al-Faridi’s detention stems from his previous tweets supporting the late reformist Dr. Abdullah Al-Hamid and demanding justice for the detainees of the Saudi Civil and Political Rights Association (ACPRA).

    Nassar Al-Faridi’s arrest is a stark violation of fundamental human rights and international legal standards. His peaceful expression of support for reform and justice should not be criminalised. The Saudi government’s actions are a clear breach of international treaties and conventions that guarantee the right to freedom of speech and peaceful assembly.

    These arbitrary arrests directly contravene the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which enshrines the right to freedom of opinion and expression in Article 19. Additionally, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), to which Saudi Arabia is a signatory, explicitly protects these rights in Articles 19 and 21. By detaining Al-Faridi for his peaceful tweets, Saudi Arabia is blatantly disregarding its international obligations and commitments to uphold human rights.

    Moreover, the United Nations has consistently condemned arbitrary detention as a violation of international law. The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention has repeatedly called on states to ensure that no one is deprived of their liberty for exercising their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. The detention of Nassar Al-Faridi is a flagrant disregard for these principles and highlights the ongoing repressive environment in Saudi Arabia.

    The Saudi authorities’ actions are not only a violation of international laws but also a blatant disregard for the basic principles of justice and human dignity. Arbitrary arrests and detentions undermine the rule of law and erode trust in the justice system. The continued persecution of individuals for their peaceful advocacy and reformist views sends a chilling message to all those who dare to speak out against injustice and demand accountability.

    Together for Justice calls on the international community to condemn the arbitrary detention of Nassar Al-Faridi and to pressure the Saudi government to release him immediately and unconditionally. The world must hold Saudi Arabia accountable for its continuous human rights violations and demand that it adheres to its international obligations. We urge human rights organisations, activists, and concerned citizens to join us in advocating for Al-Faridi’s release and to stand in solidarity with all those unjustly detained for exercising their fundamental rights.

  • Together for Justice Condemns UK’s Stance on Threats to Saudi Activists in Exile

    Together for Justice Condemns UK’s Stance on Threats to Saudi Activists in Exile

    Together for Justice strongly condemns the United Kingdom’s apparent indifference to the ongoing threats and harassment faced by Saudi activists living in exile. These activists, who have bravely spoken out against human rights abuses and the jailing of female activists in Saudi Arabia, continue to be targeted by Riyadh despite seeking refuge in a country that professes to uphold democratic values and human rights.

    Saudi Arabia has been attempting to rebrand itself as a reformed state since the brutal murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi by a Saudi hit squad at its consulate in Istanbul in 2018. However, the reality faced by Saudi dissidents in the UK tells a different story. These exiles have reported a barrage of threats and abuse for their activism, illustrating a clear pattern of transnational repression.

    Yahya Assiri, a prominent Saudi human rights activist who has been running the organisation ALQST (which means “justice” in Arabic) since 2014, shared a harrowing account of the threats against him. A knife was left outside his London home, and his wife and son were separately approached and told that they could seek help from the Saudi embassy if they disagreed with his views. “As a father, it really left me worried,” said Assiri. “For the first time, the threat felt real. I took my kids away from my own country and brought them here to the UK because it says it upholds democratic values and human rights.”

    At least half a dozen threats to life for Saudis living in exile in the UK and elsewhere in Europe have been reported by various human rights groups. This troubling trend underscores the urgent need for the UK government to take decisive action to protect these individuals and hold the Saudi regime accountable for its transgressions.

    This is not an isolated incident. The murder of Jamal Khashoggi serves as a stark reminder that the Saudi regime will go to great lengths to silence its critics, even on foreign soil. The threats and harassment faced by Saudi activists in the UK demonstrate that what happened to Khashoggi could happen to anyone who dares to speak out against the regime. The UK must not turn a blind eye to these dangers.

    Together for Justice calls on the UK government to:

    Publicly condemn the threats and harassment faced by Saudi activists in the UK.
    Provide increased protection for Saudi dissidents and their families living in exile.
    Hold Saudi Arabia accountable for its actions, including imposing sanctions on those responsible for transnational repression.
    Investigate and prosecute any individuals or entities involved in threatening or harming Saudi activists on UK soil.

    The murder of Jamal Khashoggi should have served as a wake-up call for the international community about the lengths to which the Saudi regime will go to silence dissent. The continued targeting of Saudi activists in the UK highlights the persistent danger they face and the urgent need for a robust response from the British government.

    Together for Justice stands in solidarity with all Saudi activists bravely speaking out against oppression, and we will continue to advocate for their safety and rights. The UK must live up to its commitment to democratic values and human rights by taking immediate and concrete steps to protect these vulnerable individuals.