The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, along with Senator Rick Scott and Cuban-American Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar, have condemned the brutal beating and torture of Cuban dissident José Daniel Ferrer, who has been imprisoned again since April 29. Through social media, the Bureau and these lawmakers have demanded immediate proof of life and access for a medical and humanitarian mission to assess the health condition of the UNPACU leader, who is in complete isolation without family contact.
Senator Scott expressed his outrage over the reports of Ferrer's torture by the Castro/Díaz-Canel regime, stating, "We must demand proof of life and urgent medical care." He emphasized that the world is watching and will not forget these abuses. Congresswoman Salazar described the assault as a barbaric act that exposes the criminal, violent, and cowardly nature of the Cuban dictatorship. She urged, "Enough with the half-measures. It is time for the world to condemn these thugs and apply maximum pressure."
The Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs also denounced the attack, highlighting that it demonstrates the regime's lack of commitment to human rights. "This act shows that the regime's gestures, such as releasing prisoners for international credit, are in bad faith," the diplomatic body stated.
Reports indicate that José Daniel Ferrer was savagely beaten by regime authorities while on a hunger strike at Mar Verde prison in Santiago de Cuba. His sister, Ana Belkis Ferrer, revealed that the attack occurred after he began the strike to protest his arbitrary detention, ongoing abuses, poor food quality, contaminated water, and the severe hunger faced by inmates.
The family claims that authorities deliberately transferred common and violent prisoners from Boniato prison to Mar Verde with the intention of assaulting Ferrer. Ana Belkis condemned these criminal acts against her brother and held Raúl Castro, Díaz-Canel, and their allies responsible. She also demanded the immediate release of Ferrer and all political prisoners in Cuba.
José Daniel Ferrer has been arrested for political reasons at least three times. His most recent detention was linked to his involvement in the July 11 protests, a symbol of popular resistance against the regime. In early 2025, he was released as part of an agreement intended to improve Cuba's international image, following negotiations related to their removal from the U.S. State Department's list of terrorism sponsors. However, he was arrested again months later for allegedly violating his parole, and since then, he has been held in extreme isolation, raising serious concerns about his physical and mental well-being.
Impact of José Daniel Ferrer's Imprisonment on International Relations
What has been the international response to José Daniel Ferrer's imprisonment?
The international community, particularly the United States, has condemned the Cuban regime's actions, demanding proof of life and urgent medical attention for Ferrer. There is a call for global pressure to address human rights abuses in Cuba.
Why is José Daniel Ferrer considered a significant figure in Cuban opposition?
Ferrer is a prominent leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU) and has been a vocal critic of the Cuban government, actively participating in protests and advocating for democratic reforms, making him a symbol of resistance against the regime.
What are the conditions like for political prisoners in Cuba?
Political prisoners in Cuba often face harsh conditions, including isolation, inadequate food, contaminated water, and mistreatment, which are intended to suppress dissent and intimidate opposition figures.