We are writing as concerned individuals, activists, community organizers and civil society organizations who oppose the arbitrary arrest of Anas Abu Srour, the Executive Director of community-based organization Aida Youth Center. 

On November 28th, Anas Abu Srour was detained by the Israeli occupation army while driving to his home in Bethlehem from Ramallah. For twelve hours, no one knew of his whereabouts until it was confirmed that he had been arrested. After 72 hours, his family continued to receive conflicting information as to where he was being detained and what charges, if any, he was facing. On 5 December, Anas was 'sentenced', without trial or charges, to 6 months administrative detention by an Israeli military court.

Anas is a dedicated community leader and a humanitarian. In his role as the Executive Director of Aida Youth Center, Anas selflessly leads the organization’s efforts to support over 300 of Aida refugee camp’s children and youth, who come to the center every week for academic, sports, and arts programs. Anas’ arrest is not just deeply felt by his family, but by the entire community. In his absence, the Aida Youth Center cannot continue to support the community to the same degree and level of expectations that have been set by Anas’ leadership.

In addition to being a pillar of his community in Aida camp, Anas is  a father to a newborn son, Hassan, who is only four months old. He is also a loving husband to Maysan, a dutiful son to his parents, and a good friend to many people from around the world. 

Anas has committed no crime. He is yet another victim of an Israeli mass incarceration campaign that targets innocent Palestinian men, women, and children, simply based on their identity. His current imprisonment is a violation of his right to freedom from arbitrary arrest and detention, as codified in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 

We are extremely concerned for Anas’ wellbeing. Various sources have highlighted an alarming deterioration in conditions for Palestinian detainees, including humiliation and torture. No one, and especially not innocent men, women, and children, should face such cruel and inhumane treatment.

We, the undersigned, call for Anas Abu Srour’s immediate release from prison.

Sincerely,