The ousting of Bashar al-Assad on Sunday marked the end of his 24-year presidency and over 50 years of Assad family rule in Syria. Now in Moscow, Assad and his family face an uncertain future after Russia granted them asylum following a rapid rebel offensive led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
Russia, a key ally during Syria’s civil war, played a decisive role in bolstering Assad’s regime but was unable to prevent his downfall amidst its own preoccupation with the Ukraine conflict. The family’s ties to Russia, including luxury properties and educational pursuits, suggest they may remain there.
Assad’s wife, Asma, a dual British-Syrian citizen, also has the option to return to the UK, but sanctions and her family’s presence in Moscow may influence her decision to stay.
The transition raises questions about accountability for alleged war crimes committed during Assad’s rule. Human rights organizations are calling for international action to prosecute those responsible, while the new Syrian leadership has vowed to expose and repatriate officials implicated in crimes.
As the Assad era ends, the focus shifts to rebuilding Syria and holding the former regime accountable for decades of human rights abuses.
