Syrian general and commander linked to regime security apparatus
Christians in western Idlib are returning to their villages, reopening churches and repairing homes after years of displacement. Residents describe a sense of belonging returning as they reopen Al-Quniyah and nearby areas, while broader reconstruction faces funding and infrastructure challenges.
Unified Syrian and Lebanese security concerns frame talks on potential cross-border operations. While Washington presses for pressure points, Damascus faces internal and regional costs. A range of options is considered, from border controls to limited troop movements, with Iran’s retaliation potential guiding calculations.
A Damascus criminal court has sentenced ousted president Bashar al‑Assad, his brother Maher and several senior former officials — including Atef Najib, who is in custody — to death for murders, torture and crimes against humanity committed during Syria’s 14‑year conflict. The rulings have been issued in absentia for Assad and Maher, who are in Russia.
Maj. Gen. Adel Issa has been transferred to Syrian custody after Lebanese authorities detained him; he faces charges including intentional homicide, torture leading to death and crimes aimed at inciting civil war. A Damascus referral judge will decide whether to proceed to trial, marking a potential shift in how Lebanon handles figures wanted by Damascus.
A Damascus court has found Ahmad Hassoun, Syria’s former grand mufti, guilty of inciting violence and supporting the regime, delivering a life sentence and additional terms. The ruling comes amid a wave of trials against Assad-era officials as the new authorities push for accountability.
Authorities across Syria have detained multiple former generals and officers linked to abuses under Bashar al-Assad. The arrests, spanning Damascus, Aleppo and Latakia, come as the regime seeks accountability for past crimes while maintaining control amid a fractured state.