The Amal Center for Human Rights and Justice expresses its deep concern over reports of deteriorating detention conditions in Building 2 of Jau Central Prison, and restrictions and assaults against prisoners amid their peaceful protests demanding improved living conditions. The Center is particularly concerned for the safety of human rights defender Naji Fateel and journalist Sayed Baqer.
According to information being monitored by the Center, prisoners in Wards 1 to 6 began a hunger strike on 4 October to protest overcrowding, poor sanitation and food, restrictions on telephone calls and outdoor exercise, and difficulties accessing medical treatment. Their demands also include a review of their classification and a meeting with Abdulwahab Hussein.
Information received indicates that Naji Fateel, who was re-arrested on 18 August 2026, is confined to a locked cell for 22 hours a day. This prolonged confinement raises serious concerns about his physical and mental health, particularly given his need to complete his jaw and dental treatment plan and his limited opportunities for movement and outdoor exercise.
In a concerning escalation, reports indicate that riot police entered Ward 6 on the evening of 11 October and used batons and pepper spray against hunger-striking prisoners to pressure them to end their protest. According to accounts received, prisoners sustained injuries to their hands, legs and backs, while others sought shelter inside their rooms and cells.
Among the cases reported to the Center, prisoner Nasser Al-Naboul reportedly suffered a forceful blow to a sensitive part of his body, causing him to collapse and be taken to the prison clinic. The Center also received reports that Sheikh Abdulnabi Al-Nashaba was beaten with batons.
The Center fears that these conditions, together with the continuing hunger strike and the absence of a meaningful response to prisoners’ demands, could lead to further deterioration in their health and an escalation within the building. It also expresses concern for the safety of Naji Fateel, journalist Sayed Baqer and all other prisoners, and calls for their protection from any reprisals related to peaceful protest or the sharing of information about detention conditions.
The Amal Center calls for Naji Fateel’s immediate release, for him to be allowed to complete his medical treatment without delay, and for his classification to be reviewed and his transfer to another building arranged to ensure his safety pending release. It also calls for the safety of journalist Sayed Baqer to be guaranteed, and for him and all other prisoners to have access to medical care and regular contact with their families.
The Center stresses the need to end assaults and punitive measures related to peaceful protest, conduct an independent and transparent investigation into the reported raid and injuries, and allow an independent monitoring body to interview prisoners confidentially. It affirms that the authorities are responsible for addressing prisoners’ legitimate demands, improving detention conditions and safeguarding their dignity.