France issues arrest warrants for Bashar al-Assad over Syrian war crimes
PARIS — In a groundbreaking move toward justice and accountability, French judicial authorities have issued arrest warrants for head of the former Syrian authoritarian ruler Bashar al-Assad. The unprecedented decision marks a significant step in addressing crimes committed during the Syrian conflict.
Two French courts have launched investigations into grave violations, including the use of chemical weapons against civilians. Authorities explained that the decision was based on testimonies and documents gathered by human rights organizations and Syrian victims residing in France.
One prominent case concerns the Syrian regime’s use of chemical weapons in 2013, which resulted in the deaths of hundreds of civilians. The case file includes video testimonies and other documented evidence.
The investigations also encompass the assassination of Syrian opposition figure Salah Abu al-Nabout in 2017. Evidence points to the regime’s responsibility for his death through targeted attacks on civilians.
France has invoked the principle of “universal jurisdiction,” which allows the prosecution of serious crimes regardless of where they occur. French courts are currently handling 14 lawsuits related to war crimes attributed to the Syrian regime, underscoring the country’s commitment to pursuing justice for victims of the conflict.