Dr. Salman Al-Sabawi Detained in Saudi Arabia for Commemorating Ismail Haniyeh During Umrah
Together for Justice vehemently condemns the recent arrest of Dr. Salman Dawood Al-Sabawi, a distinguished Iraqi academic, by Saudi authorities. Dr. Al-Sabawi was detained after holding a placard in front of the Kaaba, proclaiming that he had performed Umrah on behalf of Ismail Haniyeh, a prominent leader of Hamas who was assassinated in an Israeli airstrike on July 31, 2024.
This arrest represents a gross violation of freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest. Dr. Al-Sabawi’s act of devotion and solidarity should be respected and protected, not criminalized. The Saudi authorities’ actions are particularly alarming given the sacred location of the incident, the Kaaba, which should be a symbol of unity and peace for all Muslims.
Together for Justice calls for the immediate and unconditional release of Dr. Salman Dawood Al-Sabawi. We urge the international community, human rights organizations, and all individuals committed to justice to join us in condemning this unjust arrest and to demand accountability from the Saudi government.
This incident underscores the urgent need for greater respect for human rights and freedoms in Saudi Arabia. Together for Justice will continue to monitor the situation closely and advocate for the rights of Dr. Al-Sabawi and all individuals who face repression for exercising their fundamental freedoms.
