RIYADH, 16 January 2008 — The political turmoil in Lebanon has overshadowed the justice system there where a Saudi prisoner who rightfully deserves to be released is still lingering in jail waiting for his papers to be signed by the Lebanese president — whose presidential chair is empty due to political struggle between rival parties. According to Saudi Arabia’s governmental Human Rights Commission (HRC), the prisoner in Lebanon is one of 16 Saudi nationals held in Lebanese prisons for their involvement in battles in Nahr Al-Bared.

A team comprising several officials from the HRC recently concluded their second visit to Lebanon and Syria to check up on the conditions of Saudi prisoners in those two countries.

HRC spokesperson Dr. Zuhair Al-Harthi said Saudi prisoners were offered poor services in Lebanese jails. He also mentioned that they were not receiving proper medical treatment.

“International regulations dictate that they be given necessary medical attention. The services provided to them are poor,” Al-Harthi said. “Poor services, bad hygienic conditions, and the fact that prisoners were not allowed to appoint lawyers are some of HRC’s observation in Lebanese prisons.” He went on to say that Saudi prisoners were also forbidden to contact their relatives. The official did not rule out that the country’s political instability had an effect on the conditions of Saudi prisoners.

The HRC seeks to discuss the matter with concerned Lebanese authorities to ensure that Saudi prisoners receive their lawful rights and are treated according to international agreements. Al-Harthi noted that HRC was also seeking to employ attorneys for the prisoners in an effort for their release.

In another visit to Syria to ensure the welfare of Saudi prisoners there, the HRC noted that there were currently 17 Saudi prisoners in Syrian jails on criminal charges. Al-Harthi noted that even though the overall situation there had improved from HRC’s visit last year, many prisoners complained that they were held for long durations without any official charges. They also told Saudi officials that they have been denied requests to contact their families.