The ruling was issued in Damascus by Judge Fakhr al-Din al-Aryan during a hearing attended by Syria’s Republic Public Prosecutor, members of the National Commission for Transitional Justice, representatives of international legal and humanitarian organizations, and families of victims.

The verdict represents a significant development in Syria’s emerging transitional justice process, placing alleged abuses committed under the former government before a domestic court.

Court cites Assad’s role in state abuses

Al-Aryan said the court convicted Assad of crimes against humanity and other offenses, citing his position as the country’s highest decision-maker and his role in directing state institutions involved in the violations.

The judge said the defendants were convicted of premeditated and intentional murder as well as torture resulting in death.

The court also sentenced Atef Najib, Assad’s cousin and former political security chief in the southern city of Daraa, to death.

The proceedings included participation from Syria’s National Commission for Transitional Justice, whose head, Abdul Basit Abdul Latif, described the Najib ruling as an important step toward justice, restoring victims’ rights and upholding the rule of law.

Seven fugitives also receive death sentences

The court separately announced death sentences against seven fugitives: Maher Hafez al-Assad, Fahd Jassem al-Freij, Mohammad Ayman Ayoush, Louay Ali al-Ali, Qusay Ibrahim Mahyoub, Wafiq Saleh Nasser and Talal Fares al-Aysami.

SANA’s account did not provide details about the current locations of the fugitives or explain how the sentences would be enforced.

The source also did not provide information about possible appeals, further proceedings or the timetable for implementing the death sentences.

Transitional justice takes central role

The verdict places judicial accountability at the center of Syria’s effort to address alleged abuses committed under the former government.

The participation of the National Commission for Transitional Justice and the presence of victims’ families and international legal and humanitarian representatives underscore the broader role the case is playing in Syria’s emerging accountability process.

Abdul Basit Abdul Latif said the ruling was intended to contribute to justice, redress for victims and the rule of law.

The case is likely to remain significant as Syrian authorities pursue other proceedings involving alleged abuses by former government officials. The immediate questions include how the sentences against fugitives will be handled and what further cases will move through the transitional justice system.

This report is based on information from the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA).

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