Basra journalist begins hunger strike over extended detention

BASRA, Iraq — Journalist and blogger Mustafa Abdurrazzak al-Mayahi began a hunger strike on Wednesday, April 9, in protest against a Basra Publications and Media Court judge's decision to extend his pretrial detention, according to a source. A source said al-Mayahi was arrested following a complaint filed by the Iraqi Border Ports Authority over his social media videos. The videos called for the removal of a 3,000-dinar transit fee imposed on civilian vehicles at the Shuaymcha border crossing and included questions directed at the Border Ports Directorate. His detention was extended until Wednesday to allow investigators to complete procedural steps and record his statement regarding the social media posts, the source said. The Border Ports Authority had filed the complaint that led to his arrest. Al-Mayahi's family said he has faced severe psychological pressure while in custody and expressed concern over his health. The family held the relevant security authorities responsible for his safety and called for a review of his case. No further details on his legal status were immediately available.