Statement from Darragh O’Brien TD following Ibrahim Halawa verdict

​Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs and Trade, Darragh O'Brien TD has welcomed the verdict reached in this afternoon’s mass trial in Cairo which has acquitted Dublin man, Ibrahim Halawa of all charges.


21 year old Ibrahim was arrested in Cairo during anti-government protests in 2013 and had entered a fifth year of detention in Egyptian jail awaiting trial.


Commenting on the news, Deputy O’Brien said, “This afternoon’s news from Cairo has been long awaited and I have no doubt that this is a hugely emotional time for Ibrahim and the Halawa family, who tirelessly campaigned for his release.


“While today’s news is so widely welcomed it is important to remember that Ibrahim has spent over four years of young life detained in Egyptian jail.


“While on a diplomatic trip to Cairo earlier this year, I had the opportunity to speak with Ibrahim in person and it was clear that those years of detention awaiting trial have taken a toll on his wellbeing.

"This entire ordeal has been deeply traumatising, not only for Ibrahim but also for his family and loved ones. The suffering endured by Ibrahim can now finally be brought to an end.


 “I am relieved that he will now be free from detention to focus on regaining his full health. I look forward to Ibrahim’s immediate release and return to his family and friends in Ireland,” concluded the Deputy.