U.S. Chargé d'Affaires Welcomes UAE’s Decision to Grant Zack Shahin Bail

July 5, 2012, Abu Dhabi

The United States Embassy in Abu Dhabi welcomes the UAE’s decision to grant Zack Shahin bail. Mr. Shahin has been engaged in a hunger strike since May 14, 2012, and has been imprisoned since 2008.

The U.S. Chargé d'Affaires, L. Victor Hurtado, commented, “I welcome the Court of Federal First Instance’s decision to set the conditions for Mr. Shahin’s release on bail after more than four years in detention.” Mr. Hurtado added, "Today’s decision is a positive step in ensuring that Mr. Shahin is able to vigorously defend himself against all pending charges.”

The United States has repeatedly raised Mr. Shahin's case during meetings with senior UAE officials in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Washington, urging the UAE to conduct Mr. Shahin's case in an expeditious and transparent manner.