Assad Relatives Arrested at Beirut Airport Amid Regional Turmoil
Lebanese authorities arrested Rasha Khazem and her daughter at Beirut airport for allegedly attempting to leave with forged passports. Their arrest follows the exit of her father-in-law, Rifaat Assad, who has been indicted for war crimes in Switzerland. The arrests coincide with measures against those linked to the former Syrian regime amidst heightened security concerns in Lebanon.
On Friday, at the Beirut airport, Lebanese authorities detained Rasha Khazem, the spouse of Duraid Assad, alongside their daughter Shams. They were attempting to depart for Egypt using allegedly forged passports. The incident followed the recent departure of Duraid’s father, Rifaat Assad, who left the day prior without issue. The individuals had reportedly entered Lebanon illegally, underscoring the escalating tension and challenges regarding security in the region concerning the recent political upheaval in Syria.
Rifaat Assad, once a powerful figure in Syria and the uncle of current president Bashar Assad, has been indicted by Swiss prosecutors for war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to historical atrocities committed decades prior. Notably, he was notorious for leading military actions that resulted in substantial civilian casualties during Syria’s past conflicts.
In light of the significant political shifts occurring within Syria, including increased defections and the exodus of individuals affiliated with the previous regime, additional arrests have been documented involving members of the former Syrian military and intelligence agencies within Lebanon. Notably, more than 20 individuals linked to Assad’s security apparatus were apprehended, some while attempting to sell weapons they possessed.
Moreover, Lebanon has received an Interpol request for the apprehension of Jamil al-Hassan, who previously served as the director of Syrian intelligence, indicating that the region remains a focal point for the repercussions of Syrian political dynamics. The Lebanese government has committed to cooperating with this international request.
The situation concerning the Assad regime, particularly in relation to its affiliated individuals, has heightened following the recent political instability in Syria. As insurgent forces have increasingly gained ground, multiple members of the former ruling elite, including family members of Bashar Assad, have attempted to flee, often under illicit circumstances, leading to heightened scrutiny and security measures at borders, particularly in Lebanon. Various officials and analysts are closely monitoring these developments, as they signify broader shifts in power dynamics in the region.
The recent arrest of relatives of Bashar Assad at the Beirut airport highlights ongoing tensions related to the fallout of Syria’s political landscape. The apprehension of individuals connected to Assad’s regime illustrates the increasing urgency for law enforcement in Lebanon to address security concerns. As the region grapples with the implications of these developments, international cooperation, including Interpol interventions, serves as a crucial component in addressing wartime accountability.
Original Source: apnews.com
