'Being allowed to leave does not erase injustice': Former Dubai resident leaves Iraq after years of detention

Robert Pether, a 50-year-old Australian engineer and former Dubai resident, has returned to his family in Ireland after being detained in Iraq for over five years. Pether and his Egyptian co-worker, Khaled Radwan, were initially sent to jail in August 2021 over a contract dispute between their employers and Iraqi authorities. They were released from prison last year but were unable to leave Iraq due to a financial claim linked to the case, which resulted in a travel ban.

Upon his release, Pether expressed his gratitude for being home but emphasized that it does not erase the injustice he endured. He was forced to sign a waiver to leave Iraq and return to his family, as he had no choice. Pether's health had significantly deteriorated during his detention, and the US Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong had lobbied for his release.

Despite the emotional relief of being reunited with his family, Pether highlighted the ongoing impact of the injustice he faced. He called for the international community to continue supporting those affected by such situations, while acknowledging the personal toll on his family, particularly his wife and children, who had to endure uncertainty and fear for years.