Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has been sentenced to death in absentia by a court in Damascus for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during Syria’s 14-year civil war.
His younger brother, Maher al-Assad, received the same sentence in absentia, while their cousin, former security official Atef Najib, was sentenced to death after appearing in court in person on August 11. Wearing a prison uniform, Najib stood in a courtroom cage. He was accused of helping lead the violent crackdown on protesters in Daraa in 2011.
Bashar al-Assad and his immediate family fled to Russia after his regime was overthrown in December 2024. Syria has since sought his extradition as authorities pursue accountability for atrocities committed under his rule.
Since protests erupted in Daraa in 2011, Syria has endured war, repression, and mass displacement. Assad’s overthrow in December 2024 brought celebrations, hope, and freed political prisoners, but Syria still faces enormous challenges as it navigates an uncertain future and seeks justice.
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