Iman Al-Obeidi: Now Missing and Sued by Men She Accused of Gang Rape

COMMENTARY | Iman al-Obeidi recently rushed into the Tripoli hotel in Libya to tell foreign journalists that 15 pro-Gadhafi military men had gang raped her, reports the Huffington Post.

al-Obeidi's face had a large bruise and numerous cut marks. Her wrists had deep red marks from restraints used to tie her up. She appeared to have suffered a very violent attack. She stated "They violated my honor. Look at what the Gadhafi militiamen did to me," reports the Daily Mail

While al-Obeidi was talking to the foreign reporters, workers at the hotel who worked for the Gadhafi regime tried to stop her from talking. Chaos erupted as the reporters tried to protect her. She was eventually dragged out of the hotel and taken away by government workers. To see a video of the Gadhafi government thugs trying to stop al-Obeidi from talking to the reporters go here.

The military men who allegedly assaulted al-Obeidi have now filed a civil suit against her. Musa Ibrahim, a government representative stated "The boys who she accused of rape are bringing a case because it is a very grave offense to accuse someone of a sexual crime," notes the New York Times.

Her parents have told the media that al-Obeidi is a lawyer. They received a phone call saying she is being held at the Gadhafi compound and that she should recant her rape accusation. The government of Libya claims al-Obeidi is now in Tripoli with a relative.

Rape is a despicable war crime. If gang rape is being used as a tool to terrorize the rebel-held towns in Libya it is a crime against all humanity. When one woman is attacked it sends a chill through the hearts of all caring people.

The legal system in Libya is likely far too corrupt to ensure that a fair trial occurs over the alleged gang rape. Al-Obeidi may be mistreated again during this legal action.

Amnesty International is now searching for al-Obeidi. The organization wants to help protect her and ensure her rights are not further violated.

Sources:

Huffington Post
Daily Mail
New York Times