Immediate Call for Action: Enforced Disappearance of Palestinian Student Asem Al-Dahnoun in Saudi Arabia
“Together for Justice” expresses deep concern and strong condemnation regarding the enforced disappearance of 22-year-old Palestinian medical student, Asem Al-Dahnoun, who has been missing since October 6th after his arrival in Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah. This alarming incident constitutes a serious breach of international human rights norms and endangers the future of a young man known for his dedication and aspirations.
Asem, originally from Gaza—a region severely impacted by years of conflict and blockade—secured a medical scholarship and was studying in Belgrade, Serbia. His academic journey was a testament to his perseverance and hope to contribute positively to his community. The sudden and unexplained disappearance of this promising young man jeopardizes not only his future but also raises grave concerns about the safety of those who voice support for humanitarian and just causes.
Saudi Arabia’s approach in this matter highlights a concerning departure from its historical stance of solidarity with the Palestinian cause. The enforced disappearance of individuals like Asem reflects a broader trend of intellectual and political suppression, aimed at deterring support for justice and human rights. This shift compromises fundamental freedoms, contradicts the kingdom’s declared values, and sets a precedent that silences voices advocating for peace and justice.
We urgently call on Saudi authorities to provide clarity on Asem Al-Dahnoun’s situation and ensure his immediate and unconditional release. The continuation of practices involving arbitrary detention and enforced disappearances not only contravene established human rights standards but also undermine Saudi Arabia’s position within the international community. The lack of response from global actors on such violations risks enabling further acts of repression, which stifle freedom of expression and peaceful advocacy.
This incident adds to a growing list of concerning measures against activists and individuals in Saudi Arabia. The use of arbitrary detention as a tool to suppress differing perspectives erodes the core values of justice and liberty that underpin a lawful society. Such actions, if left unchecked, could have profound implications on the broader region and on international human rights principles.
We urge human rights organizations, media outlets, and the international community to act swiftly, applying pressure on the Saudi government to address this serious violation. Ensuring the release of Asem Al-Dahnoun and others detained for peacefully expressing their beliefs is a necessary step toward reaffirming a commitment to basic human rights. The time to act is now, to prevent the continued erosion of freedom and to send a message that the world stands firm against unjust detention practices.
Supporting Asem today represents a larger commitment to protecting freedom of speech and safeguarding human rights universally. It is a statement that enforced disappearances and silencing of peaceful voices will not be met with silence from the global community.
