In a landmark decision, a Syrian court has sentenced former dictator Bashar al‑Assad to death in absentia for war crimes and crimes against humanity. The ruling comes after his regime was toppled in December 2024, ending a family’s 50‑year grip on power.
The verdict also names several of Assad’s close aides, including his nephew Maher, the former defense minister Fahd al‑Freij, and former security chief Atef Najib. Najib, seen in a cage in the courtroom, received a death sentence for murder, torture leading to death, and the intentional killing of children under 15.
Hundreds of Syrians gathered outside the courthouse, holding photos of victims while chanting for justice. “The voices of the victims are finally heard,” a prosecutor said, underscoring a long‑awaited call for accountability.
The verdict raises hopes of bringing regime figures to justice, though it remains unclear whether Syria’s new authorities can extradite Assad and others from Russia. This trial marks the first step toward ending the legacy of impunity in post‑war Syria.
