“Though Morris’ daughter only held US citizenship at the time of departure, upon her arrival in Saudi Arabia, she was immediately subject to the country’s male guardianship laws, under which she is barred from exiting the country without her father’s permission,” [the Freedom Initiative] said.

“‘Carly Morris was released early Wednesday, after being summoned and taken into custody by Saudi authorities in the north-central city of Buraidah on Monday,’ according to the Freedom Initiative.”

“Saudi authorities should immediately lift the travel ban against her and permit her to return home to the US with her daughter.”

“Morris’ detention means that we’re now aware of three Americans behind bars in Saudi Arabia, yet another sign that Saudi simply does not value the US as an ally.”

“Congress must act to ensure that U.S. policy can’t be undone with a simple handshake. It can start by passing legislation like the Protection of Saudi Dissidents Act, which would prohibit arms sales if the kingdom doesn’t meet basic human rights requirements. Coupling concrete human rights requirements with consequences would go a long way toward resetting the relationship in a way that affirms U.S. priorities.”

“There’s been a global campaign by the Saudi government to say things are changing and the country is reforming, but that’s just not true. In fact, it’s the opposite of what we’ve seen on the ground.”