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3mo ago

Swiss Authorities Detain and Deport Palestinian American Journalist Ali Abunimah

The arrest of the Electronic Intifada director has drawn criticism from UN experts and human rights advocates over concerns about free speech in Europe.

Image
Journalist Ali Abunimah is seen in a photo from a Change.org petition for his release.
Volunteers hold a giant flag of Switzerland prior the start of the World Cup round of 16 soccer match between Portugal and Switzerland, at the Lusail Stadium in Lusail, Qatar, on Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)

Overview

  • Ali Abunimah, a Palestinian American journalist and executive director of The Electronic Intifada, was detained in Zurich before a scheduled speech and deported after three days in custody.
  • Swiss police cited an entry ban and immigration law measures as the reasons for his arrest but did not provide specific charges against him.
  • Abunimah described his detention as an attack on his advocacy for Palestinian rights and highlighted his treatment, including being held in isolation and denied communication with his family.
  • United Nations experts and human rights groups condemned the arrest, calling it a troubling indicator of increasing restrictions on free speech in Europe.
  • The incident is part of a broader crackdown on pro-Palestinian voices across Europe, with similar actions reported in Germany and the United Kingdom in recent years.