Former Syrian President Assad sentenced to death in absentia
A Syrian court has sentenced former President Bashar Assad and his brother to death in absentia for war crimes and crimes against humanity. The ruling follows the collapse of the Assad regime 20 months ago and the brothers' subsequent flight to Russia.
Why it matters
This represents a significant legal development in the aftermath of the Syrian civil war, reflecting the new government's efforts to seek accountability for past atrocities.
DAMASCUS, Syria — A Syrian court sentenced ousted Syrian President Bashar Assad along with his younger brother to death in absentia on Tuesday for crimes against humanity and war crimes during Syria's 14-year conflict that left about half a million people dead.
Middle East Syrian families scour hospitals and morgues for loved ones lost under Assad's rule The sentences at the Fourth Criminal Court in Damascus are the first against Assad or members of his inner circle since the Assad family's five decades in power came to an end 20 months ago.
"Bashar Assad used state agencies to commit war crimes and crimes against humanity," said judge Fakhareddine al-Aryan during a court session that was aired live on state TV.
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