Special to WorldTribune.com

ABU DHABI — An Islamist cell accused of plotting to overthrow the
United Arab Emirates was linked to the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt and
Qatar.

Officials said an Islamist cell that operated in the UAE was linked to
several Arab League states. They said the so-called Al Islah cell was helped
and financed by Brotherhood headquarters in Egypt and liaisons in Qatar.

“The suspects were in communications with hostile elements throughout
the region,” an official said.

On March 4, the first group of Al Islah defendants came to trial in the
State Security Court in Abu Dhabi. The 23 defendants, 10 of them deemed
fugitives, were charged with plotting to destabilize the UAE and
overthrow the ruling family.

Officials said Al Islah was also believed to have been financed by
Brotherhood elements in Kuwait. Prosecutors have not released evidence that linked Al Islah to Qatar and other Arab states. Qatar has been aiding
Brotherhood-linked revolts around the Middle East.

“The session was attended by Emirati civil society organizations such as
Human Rights Organization, Writers’ Union, Lawyers Association, Journalists Association, Sociologists Association and representatives from the media —
in a clear indication of transparency,” Qatar Deputy Foreign Minister Anwar
Gargash said.

The defendants have not acknowledged any link to foreign Arab states.
They said they came under physical and psychological pressure and called for
transfer to facilities under the authority of the Interior Ministry.

“I request protection for myself and my family because what I will say
could put my life in danger,” Ahmed Gaith Al Suwaidi, one of the defendants,
said.

  Abu Dhabi, Al Islah, Anwar Gargash, Subversion plot against UAE government tied to Muslim Brotherhood