Rifaat al-Assad, uncle of the ousted Bashar al-Assad, fled to Dubai amid accusations of war crimes related to the 1982 Hama massacre. Swiss authorities are seeking to try him for his role in the violence, while some family members remain in Lebanon. His recent escape highlights the ongoing consequences of the Assad regime’s actions.
Recently, Rifaat al-Assad, the uncle of ousted Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad, fled to Dubai from Lebanon, as reported by Lebanese officials. Known infamously as the ‘Butcher of Hama’ for his role in the brutal suppression of a 1982 rebellion, he faces war crimes charges from Swiss prosecutors. Several members of the Assad family reportedly traveled with him, while others remained in Lebanon after their family’s political fall from power on December 8th.
Rifaat al-Assad, brother of the late Syrian president Hafez al-Assad, played a key role in the violent crackdown against the Muslim Brotherhood uprising in Hama, which resulted in over 10,000 deaths. He has previously faced legal issues, including a conviction for illicit property acquisitions in European courts. Recent allegations suggest the 1982 Hama assault serves as a blueprint for Bashar al-Assad’s actions during the Syrian civil war.
Rifaat al-Assad’s flight to Dubai underscores the ongoing ramifications of the Assad regime’s violent history. Swiss prosecutors are eager to bring him to trial for his crimes against humanity, although his poor health may impact proceedings. The shifting political landscape in Syria continues to affect the Assad family’s movements and legal repercussions.
Original Source: www.france24.com
