Arrest of Key Suspect in 1977 Murder of Lebanese Politician in Syria

Ibrahim Huweija, a former head of air force intelligence in Syria, was arrested for his alleged role in the 1977 murder of Lebanese politician Kamal Jumblatt. The arrest took place during skirmishes in Latakia, and Huweija is linked to numerous assassinations during the Assad regime. Walid Jumblatt, the son of the slain politician, expressed his support for the arrest on social media.

In a significant development, Syrian security forces apprehended Ibrahim Huweija, a former head of air force intelligence, who is implicated in the 1977 murder of Lebanese politician Kamal Jumblatt. This arrest follows clashes with supporters of ex-ruler Bashar al-Assad in Latakia, marking the most intense fighting in that region since his removal in December. The state news agency SANA reported the operation as a result of extensive monitoring and investigation.

Huweija held the position of head of air force intelligence from 1987 until 2002, under both Hafez al-Assad and his successor, Bashar al-Assad. He is notorious for numerous killings during his tenure, including orchestrating Jumblatt’s assassination, who opposed Hafez al-Assad’s military involvement in Lebanon’s civil war. Kamal Jumblatt founded the Lebanese Progressive Socialist Party and was killed by armed men near the Syrian border on March 16, 1977.

Walid Jumblatt, the son of the deceased leader, took to social media to express his sentiments regarding the arrest, stating, “Allahu Akbar (God is Greatest).” Huweija’s capture sheds light on historical political violence and ongoing tensions in Syria, amid efforts to bring accountability for past crimes within the realm of the country’s political turmoil.

The arrest of Ibrahim Huweija, a central figure in Syrian intelligence, represents a notable event in the ongoing examination of political violence in the region. Accused of orchestrating numerous assassinations, including that of Kamal Jumblatt, the event underscores the complexities of Syria’s political landscape and the consequences of the Assad regime. The response from Jumblatt’s son indicates a vigilant public interest in justice for historical wrongs.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com