On May 12, family members of political prisoners convened at a Cairo political party’s headquarters to advocate for the release of their loved ones. In response, the National Security Agency summoned several attendees for questioning and detained event organizers, including lawyers Wafaa el-Masry and Mohamed Abu el-Diar, along with activist Hanan Tantawy. While el-Masry and Tantawy were released on bail, Abu el-Diar remains detained facing serious charges. This incident reflects a broader pattern of authorities increasing arrests amid a climate of fear and repression. For instance, activist Ahmed Douma, who had recently been pardoned, was re-arrested for exposing abusive detention conditions and sentenced to one year in prison. Similarly, Sayed Moshagheb was detained again shortly after his release for participating in a celebration outside his home. Despite occasional presidential pardons, the Egyptian government continues to target dissenters, including journalists and activists, perpetuating a cycle of human rights violations that severely impacts the safety and livelihoods of citizens in the country.