What's happened
Recent discoveries of Captagon production facilities near Damascus reveal the extent of Syria's narcotics trade, previously linked to the Assad regime. The drug, known for its addictive properties, has turned Syria into a major supplier in the Middle East, generating billions for the regime amid ongoing conflict.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, the recent discovery of a Captagon factory near Damascus revealed millions of pills and precursor chemicals, indicating the scale of the operation. The New York Times highlights that Captagon has become Syria's most valuable export, surpassing legal products, with estimates of the global market reaching $10 billion annually. The Independent notes that the Assad family has long been accused of profiting from this trade, which has now become more visible following the regime's fall. These sources collectively illustrate the significant economic and social implications of the Captagon trade in Syria and the broader Middle East.
How we got here
Syria's Captagon trade has flourished since the civil war began in 2011, with the Assad regime allegedly profiting significantly. The drug, originally developed in the 1960s, became a staple in the region, leading to widespread addiction and smuggling operations.
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