Eman al-Obeidy (also spelled Iman Al-Obeidi), a Libyan woman who was detained by Gadahfi’s troops for two days in Tripoli, has recently revealed that, while in captivity, she was brutally gang raped by Gadahfi loyalists. As though this woman had not been through enough, when she was finally freed she was subjected to harsh, unyielding questioning by Libyan journalists who began pouring water on her and throwing food at her when she made the claims about the sexual abuse. The journalists only ceased their harassment after a doctor proved that she had, in fact, been raped. Al-Obeidy says that reports from a TV anchor and government officials accusing her of being “mentally ill,” “drunk,” and a “prostitute,” have ruined her reputation and caused her psychological damage.
Al-Obeidy is scheduled to speak out to American audiences tonight on Anderson Cooper 360 at 10 PM. This woman is immensely brave in her decision to speak about her horrifying experience and will hopefully help to empower her fellow Libyan women.
Here is a video from the Associated Press about her capture, release and the amazing support she has received from Libyan women.
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