Reform arrives in Saudi Arabia: US praises

"Egyptian lawyer, Ahmed El-Gizawy has been sentenced in absentia to one year in jail and 20 lashes, Monday, for "defaming" KIng Abdullah of Saudi Arabia during his visit to the gulf country to undertake the Islamic ritual "Umrah."  El-Gizawy is to receive the 20 lashes on Friday.  The Egyptian lawyer was traveling with his family to Jeddah where he was detained on Tuesday, 17 April. El-Gizawy had filled legal cases calling for the release of Egyptians who are currently being held in Saudi Arabia's prisons without court sentences.  So far no official Egyptian government statement has been released commenting on the case." (thanks Sultan)