Lebanon has approved the extradition of Egyptian activist Abdul Rahman al-Qaradawi to the UAE, despite warnings from Amnesty International about potential human rights violations. Al-Qaradawi faces extradition after being arrested in Lebanon post-visit to Syria and has been critical of Arab authorities. His lawyer intends to appeal the decision to block the extradition.
Lebanon has officially sanctioned the extradition of Abdul Rahman al-Qaradawi, an Egyptian opposition activist, to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This decision follows a cabinet vote and comes amidst warnings from Amnesty International regarding the potential for human rights abuses he may face upon his return. Al-Qaradawi was apprehended in Lebanon on December 28, shortly after returning from Syria, where he had made public statements supportive of the Syrian people and critical of the UAE, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia.
Abdul Rahman al-Qaradawi, aged 53, is the son of the prominent Muslim Brotherhood cleric Yusuf al-Qaradawi. His current detention follows a history of activism against the Egyptian regime and other Arab authorities. He had recently been in Syria and recorded a video expressing hope for the Syrian populace amid ongoing civil strife. Al-Qaradawi’s extradition has sparked concern internationally, especially from organizations advocating for human rights, underscoring fears of persecution that may arise if he is returned to either Egypt or the UAE, where he has faced significant political opposition.
The Lebanese government’s approval of Abdul Rahman al-Qaradawi’s extradition to the UAE raises serious concerns about potential human rights violations that he could encounter. Amnesty International’s calls for the protection of al-Qaradawi’s rights highlight the intersection of freedom of expression and legal obligations under international law. This case serves as a pivotal moment for Lebanon’s commitment to uphold human rights and protect individuals from potential persecution based on their political beliefs.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
