Syrian court sentences Bashar al-Assad to death in absentia

Published Aug 12, 02:48 PM UTC

A Syrian court in Damascus sentenced ousted President Bashar al-Assad to death on Tuesday, finding him guilty of murder, torture, and crimes against humanity committed before and during the country's 14-year civil war. Assad, his brother Maher, and six other former officials were tried in absentia after fleeing to Russia following the collapse of their government 20 months ago. The verdicts, described as mostly symbolic by the Associated Press, were nonetheless met with celebrations across Syria, where many citizens have grown impatient with the lack of accountability. Legal experts caution that transitional justice takes time. The sentences set a legal precedent for others accused of crimes under the former regime, according to Al Jazeera. Assad's cousin Atef Najib, who was present in court, can appeal his verdict, but the absent defendants forfeited that right.