Lebanon to Deport Egyptian Poet Abdul Rahman al-Qaradawi to UAE Amid Safety Concerns, Family Appeals to PM Najib Mikati

Jan 7, 2025, 04:39 PM

The Lebanese government has decided to deport Abdul Rahman al-Qaradawi, an Egyptian poet and opposition activist, to the United Arab Emirates. His family has expressed grave concerns about his safety, urging Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati to intervene. They fear that al-Qaradawi, who also holds Turkish nationality, could face severe repercussions in the UAE. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have called on Lebanon to reject the extradition requests from Egypt and the UAE, citing the potential danger to his life. Protests have erupted globally, including demonstrations outside Lebanese embassies, demanding his release and criticizing the Lebanese government's decision. Activists argue that his deportation is politically motivated, stemming from a video he released criticizing Arab regimes. The Lebanese cabinet's decision has drawn widespread condemnation, with calls for urgent action from Turkish authorities as well, given al-Qaradawi's Turkish citizenship.