In brief
In a landmark trial, a Syrian court sentenced former president Bashar al‑Assad to death in absentia for crimes against humanity in the civil war. The sentence was delivered after Assad fled Damascus to Moscow following the regime’s overthrow in December 2024. Atef Najib, his cousin and former head of political security in Deraa, was also condemned to death before a cage‑bound court. The decision marks a significant turning point as the new interim government seeks justice for victims of the long‑running conflict. How Assad will be extradited remains uncertain, with Russia’s position on the matter unclear.
In a historic verdict, a Syrian court has sentenced former president Bashar al‑Assad to death in absentia for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the civil war.
After being overthrown in December 2024, Assad fled to Moscow with his family, leaving the six‑decade dynasty weakened.
In the same proceedings, Atef Najib – Assad’s cousin and former head of political security in Deirāʾ – was also sentenced to death, appearing in the courtroom inside a cage as the judge pronounced the ruling.
Deirāʾ, the birthplace of Syria’s 2011 uprising, saw protests sparked by the alleged torture of teenagers, which triggered nationwide demonstrations that escalated into civil war.
The new interim government, led by President Ahmed al‑Sharaa, has been prosecuting former regime officials, though many high‑ranking figures remain outside its reach.
Whether Assad will be extradited from Moscow remains uncertain, and Russia’s stance on the matter has yet to be clarified.
