Shocking Truth: Why Thousands of Scholars Are Suffering in Saudi Prisons

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, known for its wealth and religious significance, has faced international scrutiny for its human rights record. A particularly controversial aspect of this record involves the detention of thousands of scholars, reformers, and thinkers who have dared to speak up against the establishment. These individuals include some of the most renowned Islamic scholars and intellectuals, many of whom have contributed immensely to religious and social thought. This article delves into the tragic plight of these individuals, exploring their backgrounds, contributions, and the injustices they face within Saudi prisons.

Who Are These Scholars?

Among the thousands detained, some of the most prominent names include:

1. Sheikh Saleh Al-Talib – Former Imam of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, respected for his deep knowledge and sermons.
2. Salman Al-Ouda – A famous Islamic scholar and deputy president of the International Union of Muslim Scholars, known for his reformist views.
3. Sheikh Safar Al-Hawali – The author of the comprehensive book Muslims and Western Civilisation spanning 3,200 pages.
4. Sheikh Awad Al-Qarni – A preacher and writer renowned for his eloquence.
5. Sheikh Ali Al-Omari – A prominent Islamic thinker and media personality.
6. Dr Muhammad Musa Al-Sharif – A scholar, author, and pilot with an impressive array of works.
7. Sheikh Ali Omar Badhadhah – A preacher and reformer.
8. Sheikh Ahmed Abdul Rahman Al-Suwaian – An influential Islamic scholar.
9. Imam Idris Abkar – Known for his beautiful recitation of the Quran.
10. Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Fawzan – An intellectual and social critic.
11. Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Turaifi – A philosopher and theologian.
12. Sheikh Suleiman Al-Alwan – A prolific author and religious leader.
13. Sheikh Walid Saleh Al-Sinani – A reformist scholar.
14. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Omar Al-Hazmi – An Islamic jurist.
15. Sheikh Muhammad Saleh Al-Munajjid – The founder of IslamQA, a popular religious guidance platform.
16. Sheikh Ibrahim Bin Omar Al-Sakran – A reformist writer.
17. Dr Abdul Karim Al-Khudair – A prominent preacher.
18. Sheikh Khaled Al-Rashed – An influential speaker.
19. Dr Abdul Mohsen Al-Ahmar – A reform-minded scholar.
20. Sheikh Badr Bin Ali Al-Uteibi – A theologian.
21. Sheikh Yusuf Al-Ahmar – A preacher and thinker.
22. Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Harthi – A prolific writer.
23. Sheikh Muhammad Al-Shinar – A dedicated reformer.
24. Sheikh Jamal Al-Najem – A scholar of Islamic sciences.
25. Dr Muhammad Al-Barrak – A leading academic.
26. Sheikh Mamdouh Al-Harbi – A preacher and writer.
27. Sheikh Nasser Al-Omari – A scholar known for his reformist views.
28. Sheikh Ali Bin Abbar Al-Za’l – A reformer and speaker.
29. Sheikh Sameed Bin Furwah – An advocate for Islamic values.
30. Sheikh Gharam Al-Bishi – A renowned preacher.
31. Sheikh Muhammad Al-Habdan – A theologian and reformer.
32. Sheikh Mansour Al-Saqabi – A prominent scholar.
33. Sheikh Aqil Al-Aqil – A thinker and writer.
34. Sheikh Saeed Al-Ghamdi – A reformist intellectual.
35. Sheikh Khalaf Al-Anzi – A writer and theologian.
36. Sheikh Saad Al-Shatwi – A prominent religious leader.
37. Dr Fahad Al-Sunaidi – An academic and preacher.
38. Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Nasser – A reformist preacher.
39. Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Rees – An esteemed scholar.
40. Sheikh Nasser Al-Fahd – A philosopher and Islamic thinker.
41. Sheikh Ahmed Al-Khalidi – A writer and reformer.
42. Sheikh Faris Al-Zahrani – An advocate for social change.
43. Sheikh Musa Al-Qarni – A reformist intellectual.
44. Sheikh Ali Dair – A scholar known for his deep insights.
45. Sheikh Saud Al-Darwish Al-Buainain – A preacher and thinker.
46. Sheikh Hussain Bin Ali Al-Tamimi – An advocate for reform.
47. Sheikh Khalid Bin Fahd Al-Hamlan – A scholar and philosopher.
48. Sheikh Fahad Al-Asaker – A prominent religious leader.
49. Sheikh Muhammad Salem Al-Dosari – An Islamic thinker.
50. Sheikh Abdullah Al-Rasheed – A respected scholar.
51. Sheikh Khalid Al-Alwan – A preacher and reformer.
52. Sheikh Saleh Al-Alwan – An intellectual and writer.
53. Sheikh Muhammad Nasser Al-Amr – A social critic and theologian.
54. Sheikh Muhammad Al-Arifi – A globally recognised preacher and reformer.

These individuals represent a wide array of expertise and influence, with millions of followers on social media platforms like Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook.

Why Are They Imprisoned?

The detentions stem from the scholars’ vocal criticism of authoritarian rule, corruption, and Westernisation in Saudi Arabia. Many condemned the Saudi government’s involvement in the overthrow of Egypt’s former president Mohamed Morsi and criticised policies that strayed from Islamic principles.

Their calls for justice, opposition to tyranny, and defence of traditional Islamic values were perceived as threats by the ruling establishment. In a bid to silence dissent, Saudi authorities launched a sweeping crackdown on these scholars, accusing them of undermining national security.

The Inhumane Treatment

Reports from human rights organisations describe horrific conditions in Saudi prisons. The detainees are subjected to:

• Physical Torture: Beatings, starvation, and exposure to extreme temperatures.
• Psychological Abuse: Prolonged solitary confinement and deprivation of basic human needs.
• Neglect: Many detainees suffer from chronic illnesses, blindness, or hearing loss due to untreated conditions.
• Intimidation Tactics: The use of dogs and other violent methods to instil fear.

These conditions have led to the deterioration of both mental and physical health for many detainees. Some have spent decades behind bars without any formal charges or trials.

The International Response

Despite these alarming reports, global reactions remain muted. Many countries maintain strategic alliances with Saudi Arabia, prioritising economic and political interests over human rights.

However, voices are rising across the globe, demanding justice for these scholars. Human rights organisations are calling for their immediate release and urging the international community to hold Saudi authorities accountable.

The Bigger Picture

The detention of these scholars highlights a broader struggle between authoritarianism and calls for reform in the Arab world. Their plight is not just a Saudi issue but a representation of the silencing of dissent and the suppression of intellectual freedom.

Conclusion

The stories of these scholars reflect the tragic consequences of speaking truth to power in an environment hostile to dissent. While their voices may be silenced within prison walls, their message resonates globally, reminding the world of the enduring fight for justice, freedom, and truth.

It is imperative for the international community to take a stand and support the cause of these scholars, ensuring that their sacrifices are not in vain.

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