Saudi Arabia Sentences Fitness Influencer to 11 Years for 'Terrorist Offenses' Amidst Criticism of Women's Rights Reforms

Manahel al-Otaibi, a fitness influencer and women's rights activist, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison under Saudi Arabia's counter-terrorism laws, sparking international condemnation and highlighting the kingdom's controversial use of such laws to suppress dissent.

Manahel al-Otaibi was convicted for her social media advocacy against the male guardianship system and for wearing 'indecent clothes'.
Despite Saudi claims of reform, the case has been criticized as a misuse of anti-terrorism laws to stifle freedom of expression.
International human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have called for her immediate release, citing the sentence as a grave injustice.
Al-Otaibi's sentencing comes amid broader accusations of Saudi Arabia using harsh penalties to silence activists and critics.
The case has drawn attention to the ongoing restrictions and challenges faced by women in Saudi Arabia, despite some reforms.

Amnesty International