Rights Group Urges Iraqi Government to Seek Release of Citizens Detained in Egypt

Rights Group Urges Iraqi Government to Seek Release of Citizens Detained in Egypt
——————————
The International Organization Shia Rights Watch has called on the Iraqi government to urgently intervene with Egyptian authorities to secure the release of a number of Iraqi citizens it says were detained in connection with attending a religious mourning ceremony in Cairo.

In a letter addressed to the Iraqi prime minister, the organization said that more than 50 Iraqi visitors from the Shia community were detained after participating in a mourning gathering held near the shrine of Sayyida Zaynab (peace be upon her). It described the measures as a potential violation of freedom of belief and the right to practice religious rituals.

The organization said it respects the sovereignty and laws of all countries but stressed that freedom of religion and belief is a fundamental right recognized under international human rights conventions. It called for the religious rights of visitors and residents abroad to be protected and for them to be safeguarded from arbitrary measures.

The group urged the Iraqi prime minister to communicate with Egyptian officials to seek the release of those detained, provide them with legal and consular support, and ensure that their rights and safety are protected.

It also called for strengthening efforts to protect Iraqi citizens abroad and preserve their dignity and rights, including their ability to perform religious ceremonies within the legal frameworks of the countries where they are present.