The Committee for Justice (CFJ) has documented the arrest of trade unionist and teacher Dr. Mohamed Zahran, a member of the Educational Professions Syndicate, from his home on the evening of 15 July 2026, before he appeared the following day before the Supreme State Security Prosecution, which ordered his pretrial detention for 15 days pending investigations in State Security Case No. 5773 of 2026.
According to information published by lawyer Khaled Ali, Zahran was charged with “spreading false news, rumors, and statements” and “using a social media account to promote a terrorist crime,” in connection with posts published on social media platforms.
According to Ali, Zahran stated during questioning that one of the posts cited in the case involved a call for a meeting of teachers to discuss mechanisms for implementing court rulings related to ending judicial guardianship over the Educational Professions Syndicate, stressing that he had not specified a venue or date for the meeting prior to obtaining the necessary approvals.
Khaled Ali further indicated that Zahran was held incommunicado, without contact with his family or lawyer, from the time of his arrest until he was brought before the prosecution, where he was questioned before the detention order was issued.
Mohamed Zahran is regarded as one of the most prominent trade union figures among teachers in Egypt and is well known for his advocacy for the independence of the Educational Professions Syndicate and the holding of its elections. He has previously faced prosecution and periods of detention in connection with his trade union activities.
