The First Anniversary of Fahd Ramadan’s Detention: Calls for Immediate Release

This week marks the first anniversary of the arrest of Yemeni-Dutch citizen Fahd Ramadan, who has been detained by Saudi authorities since November 20, 2023. The arrest is allegedly linked to WhatsApp messages purportedly criticizing Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Fahd Ramadan’s family denies these allegations, asserting that the messages were fabricated by a Yemeni individual residing in the Netherlands who had a personal dispute with him.

In a statement to AFP, Abdullah Ramadan, Fahd’s 19-year-old son, described the hardships his family faces, saying, “The situation is extremely difficult. I have younger siblings and a mother who doesn’t speak Dutch, and I must take care of them all.” Abdullah explained that his father had traveled to Saudi Arabia to finalize the issuance of his birth certificate as part of the process to obtain Dutch citizenship. He had planned to stay for only one week.

Amnesty International reported that Fahd Ramadan has been arbitrarily detained without trial or legal representation throughout his detention and interrogation. His family has received no official information about his legal status. While he has been allowed limited phone calls, the location of his detention remains undisclosed. His family also noted a deterioration in his health, particularly due to worsening symptoms of diabetes.

The Sanad Rights Foundation has called on Saudi authorities to immediately release Fahd Ramadan and ensure that he is afforded his legal and human rights. The organization also urged the international community and human rights organizations to apply the necessary pressure on Saudi authorities to secure his release.