Egyptian Academic’s Life in Danger as He Remains Detained

Egypt Urged to Release Detained Academic for Health Reasons

Egypt‘s authorities have been urged to release Salah Soltan, an Egyptian-American academic, and immediately grant him access to life-saving healthcare amid reports of torture and abuse during his detention. The call was made by 51 human rights organizations who also called for independent investigations into the situation. Soltan, 63, who has life-threatening liver, heart, and other medical conditions, has been deprived of adequate health care while detained in the Badr 1 prison. Independent doctors who addressed the Biden administration fear that Soltan is at “increased risk of sudden death” and in danger given the intentional denial of medical care.

## Human rights exploration

Soltan’s arrest and detention are seen as part of a broader pattern of the Egyptian authorities’ repression of political opponents and human rights activists, some of whom have been jailed for years without trial. Human Rights Watch, which supports Soltan’s release, says his detention and prosecution on politicized charges violated his freedoms of expression, political participation, and peaceful assembly, in addition to basic human rights violations while in detention. Furthermore, Mr. Soltan’s family and supporters argue his ill-treatment is an attempt by the authorities to retaliate against his son, a prominent US human rights advocate who is known for his work critiquing Egypt‘s human rights record.

## Editorials and advice

Without access to adequate medical care, Soltan’s health is deteriorating fast, putting his life in danger. The authorities’ denial of health care is in violation of international law, including the International Covenant for Civil and Political Rights. Salah Soltan’s case is not unique; thousands of people languish in Egypt‘s prisons who are victims of politically motivated arrests and inhumane treatment. This case highlights Egypt‘s dire human rights situation, including the government’s ongoing clampdown on political opposition, journalists, civil society activists, and human rights defenders.

The Egyptian authorities must immediately release Salah Soltan, who has been subjected to gross human rights violations, and ensure that independent investigations are conducted into these violations. The authorities must adhere to international human rights standards and provide access to life-saving medical care for all prisoners and detainees in their custody. In the current circumstances, and given the potential risk to his life, we urge the US government to prioritize Mr. Soltan’s case and work with international partners to pressure the Egyptian government to release him immediately.

## Conclusion

Egypt must act to end its practice of arbitrary arrests and ensure the protection of citizens’ rights. The persistent abuse and mistreatment in Egyptian detention centers call into question the country’s commitment to upholding basic human rights. The international community, including the United States, must hold Egypt accountable for its human rights record, especially regarding the detention of political prisoners and its continued repression of civil society and opposition voices. The right to life is non-derogable; thus, we call on Egypt‘s authorities to act now to avert a potential tragedy and take immediate steps to ensure that Salah Soltan is immediately freed and granted urgent medical care.

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