The State Shura Council’s decision mandates the Lebanese government to compensate Ziad Itani for torture and ill-treatment he endured. Amnesty International regards this ruling as a crucial step towards addressing impunity for torture in Lebanon. The case underlines the need for effective enforcement of the 2017 anti-torture law, which has been inadequately implemented thus far. This ruling promotes accountability for human rights abuses in the country.
In a significant ruling from Lebanon’s State Shura Council, the government has been ordered to compensate actor Ziad Itani with 480 million Lebanese Liras, approximately 5,360 USD, for failing to protect him from torture. This decision reflects a pivotal moment in the quest to terminate impunity regarding torture within Lebanon, according to Kristine Beckerle, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa.
Beckerle acknowledged the rarity of this decision, stating, “This decision is a rare breakthrough for justice that must pave the way for an end to longstanding impunity for torture in Lebanon.” Ziad Itani faced severe injustices, being wrongfully detained, subjected to solitary confinement and torture, and denied legal access. The Shura Council recognized these circumstances by asserting the authorities’ failures in upholding their duty to prevent torture.
Despite recent failures to bring accountability for torture-related deaths, such as that of Syrian refugee Bashar Abd Saud, the Shura Council’s ruling offers some hope for survivors. Beckerle emphasized the need for Lebanon to act responsibly, stating that authorities must ensure justice for torture victims and prevent such abuses in the future.
The ruling stems from a complaint lodged by Itani’s lawyer in August 2020, leading to the council’s decision on December 5, 2024, which was made public in March 2025. The findings highlighted the State’s negligence in investigating torture claims and adhering to legal obligations. Itani was arrested on false charges and suffered unspeakable treatment while in custody, yet his case did not receive appropriate judicial attention until recently.
Lebanon ratified an anti-torture law in 2017, which criminalizes torture and upholds the presumption of innocence and rehabilitation rights. However, shortcomings remain, particularly regarding the Military Court’s jurisdiction over torture cases. Amnesty International has documented numerous ineffective investigations under this law since its enactment, underscoring the necessity for active enforcement and accountability in Lebanon.
The ruling by Lebanon’s State Shura Council signifies a pivotal advancement in the fight against torture and impunity in the country. Ziad Itani’s struggle for justice highlights the urgent need for the Lebanese authorities to uphold their obligations under the anti-torture law enacted in 2017. By addressing the systemic failures surrounding torture investigations, this landmark decision offers a glimmer of hope for victims and reinforces the commitment to human rights in Lebanon.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
