In a move that has ignited international concern, Lebanon has deported Abdulrahman Youssef al-Qardawi, an Egyptian-Turkish poet, to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Human Rights Watch (HRW) has decried the deportation as unlawful, characterizing it as an attempt to suppress dissenting voices. There are grave concerns regarding al-Qardawi’s safety, with HRW highlighting the high risk of torture and unfair trial that he might face upon his arrival in the UAE.
The Lebanese authorities apprehended al-Qardawi on December 28, 2024, after he crossed into Lebanon from Syria. This was supposedly at Egypt’s behest, though it was the UAE that quickly advanced its own extradition request on January 2, 2024. The charges against al-Qardawi, which include disseminating false information and disturbing public order via social media, are contentious as they may not align with recognized offences under international law. HRW argues that deporting someone for peaceful critique significantly weakens Lebanon’s commitment to the rule of law.
The decision was executed despite objections from human rights organizations, including Amnesty International. They state that al-Qardawi’s deportation to the UAE could directly imperil his safety and well-being. Although Lebanon’s government justified its actions by suggesting that the UAE pledged to treat al-Qardawi fairly, HRW counters that such verbal assurances cannot be sufficient, citing the UAE’s documented record of human rights violations, particularly involving arbitrary detention and torture.
This incident underscores a complex interplay of political dynamics in the region, with Lebanon’s actions possibly influenced by Gulf states. As pressures mount on Lebanon to obtain economic and political support amid an ongoing crisis, it raises questions about Lebanon’s regard for international human rights obligations and its role in safeguarding individuals from political persecution.
With the global spotlight now firmly on this case, there is an urgent call for international bodies to hold Lebanon accountable for actions that might compromise fundamental freedoms and the rule of law.