The State Department has sanctioned Thai officials over the deportation of 40 Uyghur men to China. Secretary Rubio emphasized U.S. opposition to such actions due to fears of persecution. Despite assurances from China regarding the men’s safety, the deportation has drawn significant international condemnation.

On Friday, the State Department announced sanctions against an unspecified number of Thai officials due to their role in deporting over 40 Uyghur men to China, despite concerns regarding potential imprisonment or even execution. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated the imposition of visa restrictions on individuals involved in these deportations, although no specific officials have been named, and the details regarding these visa restrictions remain unclear.

Rubio emphasized America’s commitment to opposing Chinese pressure on governments to return Uyghurs and other groups to China, where they may face severe human rights abuses, including torture and enforced disappearances. The Thai embassy in Washington did not provide immediate feedback on the sanctions.

The Uyghurs are a predominantly Muslim ethnic group from Xinjiang, China. Following a history of conflict related to cultural suppression, the Chinese government initiated harsh crackdowns on the Uyghur population, which some nations have classified as genocide. In 2014, Thai authorities detained over 300 Uyghurs fleeing persecution, with 48 individuals remaining in detention as of February, while preparations were made to deport them despite international appeals.

Rubio condemned the deportation of Uyghurs strongly, stating that they have endured persecution, forced labor, and torture in China. Conversely, Thai officials claimed they received assurances from China that the deported individuals would not face punishment or harm upon return. The Chinese Embassy in Bangkok stated that the returned individuals were “smuggled” nationals and had been reunited with their families after a decade of absence, sharing images of family gatherings.

In summary, the U.S. State Department has imposed sanctions on Thai officials linked to the deportation of Uyghur men to China, amidst fears for their safety. Secretary Rubio has condemned these actions, asserting the U.S.’s commitment to protecting the rights of the Uyghurs. The situation highlights ongoing tensions regarding human rights abuses in China and international responses to these issues.

Original Source: apnews.com

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