Human rights groups on Monday condemned Egypt for a “smear campaign and threats” against an activist organization reporting on a controversial construction project in the Sinai Peninsula.
The Sinai Foundation for Human Rights (SFHR) published a report on February 14th detailing the building of a “closed, high-security” zone near the Gaza Strip border, allegedly intended to house Palestinian refugees.
The report ignited controversy, with Egyptian authorities officially denying the claims. However, the SFHR presented evidence from local developers and satellite imagery, suggesting construction of a walled enclosure in the area.
Following the report, the SFHR and its director, Ahmed Salem, became targets of a coordinated attack. The groups allege that Egyptian and pro-government figures subjected Salem to online harassment, linking him to “terrorist groups and the Israeli Mossad” without providing any proof. Additionally, Salem reportedly received threats of repatriation to Egypt “if he did not drop his work.”
The incident sparked alarm among international human rights watchdog organizations. 18 leading groups, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, signed a joint statement expressing concerns. They condemned the tactics employed against the SFHR and Salem, highlighting a pattern of silencing dissent in Egypt.
“Egyptian authorities must ensure the safety of Ahmed Salem and his family,” stated Mary Lawlor, the UN’s Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders.
The joint statement further demanded “Egyptian authorities to immediately allow independent journalists and independent civil society to work freely in Sinai.” They emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, urging the government to allow the media to report on grievances of Sinai residents and the broader impact of regional conflicts.
This incident underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding freedom of expression and dissent in Egypt. With international pressure mounting, it remains to be seen if the government will address the concerns raised by human rights groups.
