Release of Activist Salma Al-Shehab After More Than Four Years of Arbitrary Detention

According to human rights sources, Saudi authorities have released human rights activist Salma Al-Shehab after more than four years of arbitrary detention. She was originally arrested for tweets in which she called for reform and the release of prisoners of conscience.

Al-Shehab, a mother of two and a PhD student at the University of Leeds in the UK, faced an unfair trial before the Specialized Criminal Court. Initially sentenced to six years in prison, her sentence was increased to 34 years on appeal in August 2022, later reduced to 27 years, and finally to four years with a suspended execution.

While Sanad Human Rights Organization congratulates Salma Al-Shehab and her family on her release, it emphasizes that this does not absolve Saudi authorities of responsibility for the grave violations she endured during her detention. The organization calls for appropriate compensation for her suffering.

Sanad also reiterates its call for the immediate and unconditional release of all prisoners of conscience in Saudi Arabia and an end to the repressive policies targeting human rights activists and free thinkers.