Syrian rebel leader, Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, also known as Ahmed al-Sharaa, has announced plans to publish a list of former senior officials involved in torturing the Syrian people. He has vowed to pursue these “war criminals” and hold them accountable. The rebel leader is offering rewards for information on army and security officers involved in war crimes. Al-Jolani’s group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), is in discussions with the ousted government to transfer power to a rebel “salvation government.”
Rebel fighters recently found about 40 bodies showing signs of torture in a hospital morgue near Damascus. Al-Sharaa has condemned these acts and promised to hold those responsible accountable, seeking their extradition from countries where they may have fled. The rebel leader’s actions come after the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime and the beginning of a transitional period in Syria.
In other developments, Israel has carried out about 250 airstrikes targeting military sites in Syria since Assad’s regime fell, with the stated intention of protecting its citizens. The UN Security Council is working on a joint statement to preserve Syria’s sovereignty, while the Syrian Civil Defense, or White Helmets, has ended search operations at the infamous Sednaya prison.
Diplomatic efforts are underway, with Qatar engaging with HTS leaders to position themselves favorably. The recovery of American journalist Austin Tice held hostage in Syria remains a priority for the Biden administration. Israel is optimistic about a possible hostage deal in Gaza, while Russia has granted asylum to Bashar al-Assad. The situation in Syria continues to evolve following the regime change.
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