Back
LAW

Syrian court begins proceedings against Assad and allies in first hearing

A Syrian court conducted the first hearing in the trial of ousted ruler Bashar al-Assad and senior figures from his government. Assad and his brother Maher fled Syria and will be tried in absentia, while relative Atef Najib appeared in the dock in handcuffs.

Why It Matters

The hearing marks a formal judicial step against a deposed leadership and key security figures, potentially setting precedents for accountability in Syria.

Timeline

1 Event

First hearing in Assad and allies trial

April 26, 2026

A Syrian court conducted the first hearing on Sunday, April 26, 2026, in the trial of ousted ruler Bashar al-Assad and senior figures from his government. Assad and his brother Maher have fled Syria and will be tried in absentia, but one relative, former security official Atef Najib, appeared in the dock in handcuffs.