Human Rights Activist Nasser al-Hawari Detained in Egypt After Criticizing Libyan Warlord Khalifa Haftar
Nasser al-Hawari, a human rights activist, was detained in Egypt after criticizing militia abuses linked to Libyan warlord Khalifa Haftar. Amnesty International has demanded his release, citing a lack of information about his whereabouts and concerns for his safety. Al-Hawari’s activism underscores the risks faced by those opposing human rights violations in the region.
Amnesty International has urged Egyptian authorities to release Nasser al-Hawari, a human rights activist, who was detained by police in Alexandria on February 9. His arrest coincided with the airing of his television program, which addressed allegations of prisoner abuse by militias associated with Libyan warlord Khalifa Haftar. Al-Hawari indicated in the broadcast that he would disclose additional evidence of human rights violations in future episodes.
Khalifa Haftar governs eastern Libya and is a significant ally of the Egyptian government, which has provided covert military and logistical assistance to his forces. Al-Hawari’s family has been unable to obtain information regarding his whereabouts, prompting concerns for his safety. Amnesty has reported receiving accounts of complaints made to the Public Prosecution.
Mahmoud Shalaby, an international researcher for Amnesty, stated, “Nasser al-Hawari’s distressed family have not heard from him since he was seized without explanation or an arrest warrant and subjected to enforced disappearance.” He demanded the Egyptian authorities ensure al-Hawari’s immediate access to family and legal counsel.
In a related incident, Egyptian police briefly detained al-Hawari’s brother and warned of further arrests should he discuss his sibling’s situation. Nasser al-Hawari leads the organization Victims for Human Rights and founded the Libyan Observatory for Human Rights, which has documented cases of torture in Libya for over a decade. Following his detention by militias in Tripoli, he fled to Tunisia in early 2024 and has resided in Egypt since June 2024.
The detention of Nasser al-Hawari raises serious concerns regarding human rights and government accountability in Egypt. His advocacy against Khalifa Haftar’s regime reflects the risks faced by activists in the region. Calls from organizations like Amnesty International highlight the need for transparency and protection for those who speak out against human rights violations.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
