Saudi Arabia’s Spy Trial is Mockery of Justice

Saudi Arabia’s trial of 32 men for allegedly spying on behalf of Iran has violated the basic due process rights of the defendants, Human Rights Watch said.

Saudi Arabia’s trial of 32 men for allegedly spying on behalf of Iran has violated the basic due process rights of the defendants, Human Rights Watch said.

Over nearly three years of detention and investigation and the first two months of hearings, authorities have not permitted defendants to meet with lawyers or provided all of the court documents necessary to prepare a defense. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty against 25 of the 32.

The men are accused of spying for Iran. But the charge sheet, which Human Rights Watch reviewed, contains numerous allegations that do not resemble recognizable crimes, including “supporting demonstrations,” “harming the reputation of the kingdom,” and attempting to “spread the Shia confession.” The trial began in February 2016 at the Specialized Criminal Court in Riyadh.

“This trial is shaping up as another stain on Saudi Arabia’s grossly unfair criminal justice system,” said Sarah Leah Whitson, Middle East director.