Sahrawi prisoner Naâma Asfari reported missing amid hunger strike

The family of Sahrawi political detainee Naâma Asfari says they have had no contact with her since July 13, after she entered an indefinite hunger strike on 8 June. The Liga para la Protección de los Presos Saharauis in Moroccan prisons alleges a forced disappearance by Moroccan authorities, stating that her communications were abruptly cut off and that she is being held under conditions that violate basic human‑rights standards. According to the group, Asfari’s health is extremely serious, with no independent medical access or legal representation.

In response, the Sahrawi National Council has launched an international parliamentary campaign, sending letters to the International Committee of the Red Cross, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the European Union presidency, the European Parliament, and several African parliaments. The campaign urges urgent intervention to safeguard Asfari’s life, ensure independent medical monitoring, and pressure Moroccan officials to respect international humanitarian and human‑rights law. The appeal also calls for the release of all Sahrawi political prisoners, particularly members of the Gdeim Izik group.