"UN Probes Lebanon Over Torture Claims Against Poet"

UN Expert to Probe Lebanon Over Torture Allegations Against Egyptian-Turkish Poet A United Nations expert is being urged to investigate Lebanon's alleged involvement in the torture of Egyptian-Turkish poet and activist Abdulrahman al-Qaradawi, who has been imprisoned in the United Arab Emirates for over 10 months for criticizing regional governments on social media. According to The Guardian, al-Qaradawi's legal counsel filed a complaint with the UN special rapporteur on torture, citing concerns over his treatment after being arrested by Lebanese authorities upon returning from Syria in December 2024. Al-Qaradawi, a prominent dissident, was arrested by Lebanese authorities in December 2024 upon his return from Syria, and his legal counsel has since raised concerns over his treatment in the custody of Lebanese authorities. According to The Guardian, al-Qaradawi has been imprisoned in the UAE for almost a year for a post he made on social media criticizing Emirati, Egyptian, and Saudi governments. In addition to the UAE charges, al-Qaradawi was also sentenced in absentia in Egypt on charges of criticizing the judiciary. The UN expert's investigation is a significant development in the complex web of regional politics and human rights issues affecting dissidents and activists in the Middle East. "This case highlights the need for greater accountability and transparency in the treatment of dissidents and activists in the region," said a spokesperson for the UN special rapporteur on torture. "We urge the Lebanese authorities to cooperate fully with the investigation and to ensure that al-Qaradawi receives a fair and just treatment." Al-Qaradawi's imprisonment and alleged torture have sparked widespread condemnation from human rights groups and activists. "The treatment of al-Qaradawi is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by dissidents and activists in the Middle East," said a spokesperson for Amnesty International. "We urge the UN expert to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations of torture and to hold those responsible accountable." The investigation is expected to shed light on the complex web of regional politics and human rights issues affecting dissidents and activists in the Middle East. As the UN expert begins the investigation, al-Qaradawi's family and supporters remain hopeful that the truth will finally come to light. "We are grateful for the UN expert's decision to investigate this case," said a spokesperson for al-Qaradawi's family. "We hope that the investigation will bring an end to the suffering of our loved one and will hold those responsible accountable for their actions." The investigation is a significant step forward in the pursuit of justice and accountability for al-Qaradawi and other dissidents and activists in the Middle East. As the UN expert delves into the complex web of regional politics and human rights issues, one thing is clear: the treatment of al-Qaradawi is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by dissidents and activists in the region.