Egypt has ordered the deportation of three Syrians detained for celebrating the reported fall of President Assad. The Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights condemned the arrests and expressed concern for the safety of those deported, urging Egyptian authorities to adhere to international refugee rights.
The Egyptian authorities have initiated the deportation of three Syrian individuals who participated in celebratory demonstrations in Cairo following the reported fall of President Bashar al-Assad. On December 8 and 9, approximately 30 Syrians were detained by security forces while celebrating what they believed to be the end of the Assad regime. Although some detained individuals, particularly those with residency permits, were released, those holding temporary asylum seeker cards remain in custody and face potential deportation. The Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights (Eipr) criticized these arrests and expressed concerns regarding the safety of deported individuals back to Syria, urging the government to respect international agreements pertaining to refugees. The situation raises questions about the safety of Syrian refugees in Egypt, especially given the ongoing conflict in their home country.
The context of the article revolves around Egypt’s response to celebrations regarding significant political developments in Syria, particularly the reported departure of President Bashar al-Assad. The protests in Cairo signify the deep emotional ties and ongoing struggles faced by Syrian refugees, who number approximately 136,700, as registered by the UNHCR. The deportation of individuals involved in expressions of solidarity raises serious concerns about the treatment of refugees and Egypt’s adherence to international laws protecting these vulnerable populations.
In conclusion, the actions taken by the Egyptian government against Syrians celebrating the fall of President Assad highlight an alarming trend regarding the treatment of refugees. The deportation of these individuals not only threatens their safety but also raises critical questions about Egypt’s commitment to its international obligations. The call from humanitarian organizations emphasizes the need for Egypt to respect the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly those fleeing conflict and persecution.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
