Amnesty for Talal Makhlouf.. Controversial Settlement Ignores Victims' Rights

Amnesty for Talal Makhlouf.. Controversial Settlement Ignores Victims' Rights
Major General Talal Makhlouf's status settlement raises serious concerns about ignoring victims' rights and undermining transitional justice principles in new Syria
December 23, 2024, 8:52 pm

قوات النظام \ تعبيرية

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitored widespread public discontent in Syria following the announcement of a settlement for Major General Talal Makhlouf, one of the former regime's most prominent leaders.

According to the Observatory's report, Syrians expressed absolute rejection of this settlement, considering it a flagrant violation of his victims' rights, demanding fair trial ensuring accountability.

The Observatory denounced this step, confirming its contradiction with transitional justice principles necessary for achieving desired stability.

Makhlouf, subject to multiple international sanctions, held the position of Republican Guard commander and Army General Commander's office director under the previous regime, where he made a settlement including surrendering military weapons in his possession.

Makhlouf commanded the 105th Brigade of the Republican Guard, one of the most prominent military formations involved in suppressing protests since 2011, especially in Douma and Harasta in Damascus countryside and Nawa in Daraa.

He faced Swiss sanctions in 2011, followed by European, British, and American sanctions, before his arrest during opposition advance toward Damascus.

Makhlouf's family was subjected to U.S. and European sanctions in 2019 on charges of money laundering, especially to Russia, as part of international pressure on former regime figures.

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