The story: Omanis are tweeting “We are all Sultan” in solidarity with a man whose alleged torture is receiving nationwide attention. In a video that has been circulating on social media, Sultan Ambusaidi says he was horrifically abused after being arrested over claimed theft. His allegation has put the spotlight on Oman’s royal police—including possible rights abuses.

The coverage: On March 26, the English-language Times of Oman published a statement by the police which said the case had been “dealt with according to legal procedures"...