Bahrain Mirror: A Thai news site aired clips from the trial hearing of Bahraini footballer Hakeem Al-Araibi in Bangkok, which took place amid presence of diplomatic and football figures, followed by a major media campaign on social networking sites.

The site reported that Hakeem yelled: "Please don't send me to Bahrain," as former Australian football captain Craig Foster and other campaigners turned up to offer support. "Your wife sends her love! Hakeem, Australia is with you, mate," Foster shouted.

Via his Twitter account, Foster posted a live video of Hakeem entrance to the courthouse, with barefoot shackled feet, with a large number of journalists and photographers awaiting him. "We are with you, Hakeem. All of Australia is with you. Stay strong! Football is with you, good man," Foster's voice was heard telling Al-Araibi.

Foster is spearheading a massive media campaign against Bahrain in the Al-Araibi case, and his campaign received a clear echo in the media. The Australian player's Twitter account was active throughout the day with tweets about Hakeem.

In a press statement before the trial, Foster said the fate of Hakeem Al-Araibi had become a battle for the soul of sport.

"Nothing is going to stop this process without the most strenuous response from international sport and governments because ultimately, this is not about extradition, it is about control, authority and retribution," said Foster in the Guardian.

He further stressed that Bahrain is telling its citizens that no one is safe, we can reach you wherever in the world. He said that this is the issue. It's terrifying. The world needs to step up now for freedom of expression.

Arabic Version