Lebanon's government has announced its decision to extradite Egyptian opposition activist Abdul Rahman al-Qaradawi to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), despite warnings regarding potential human rights violations he may face. The announcement came on January 7, 2025, from the office of Prime Minister Najib Mikati following a cabinet vote in favor of the extradition.
Al-Qaradawi, 53, was arrested in Lebanon on December 28 after returning from Syria, where he had expressed support for the Syrian opposition. Prior to his arrest, he recorded a video criticizing the UAE, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia.
Both the UAE and Egypt have requested his extradition. Amnesty International has urged Lebanese authorities to reject these requests, citing risks of enforced disappearance, torture, and unfair trial should al-Qaradawi be returned to either country.
Amnesty's deputy director for the Middle East and North Africa, Sara Hashash, emphasized that al-Qaradawi's detention follows his critical remarks towards regional authorities, framing the extradition requests as a violation of his right to freedom of expression. His lawyer plans to file an urgent appeal against the extradition.
Al-Qaradawi holds Turkish citizenship and resides in Istanbul with his family. He has a history of opposition to former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak and current President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. His sister is currently detained in Egypt on charges Amnesty describes as unfounded.