Trial of former Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad begins

In April 2026, a new chapter in Syria's history began at the Palace of Justice in Damascus.

The interim government has launched a transitional justice process to address crimes committed during the 14-year civil war.

While there has been speculation about the fate of the former leader, it is important to clarify that the trial of Bashar al-Assad is not currently taking place in person, as he remains in exile in Russia.

The most notable defendant to appear in court is Atef Najib, the former head of the Political Security Branch in Daraa, who was arrested in January 2025.

These dual efforts—domestic trials in Damascus and international legal pursuits—represent a significant shift in the search for accountability for the atrocities of the past decade.