Assad Sentenced to Death for War Crimes

Syrian former leader Bashar al-Assad, exiled in Russia since his removal in 2024, received a death sentence for crimes against humanity and war crimes linked to the prolonged civil war in Syria.

Images from Damascus show Syrians holding photos of relatives killed in the conflict, celebrating the court’s decision in front of the Palace of Justice.

On Tuesday, the Damascus court announced the death sentence for Assad in absentia, marking a pivotal ruling after his regime’s collapse in December 2024. In the same trial, death sentences were also issued to seven other former security officials, which included Assad’s brother Maher and cousin Atef Najib.