Hama, Syria – Syrian authorities have announced the arrest of Brigadier General Hamza Muhammad al-Yassin, a pilot accused of committing war crimes and gross violations against civilians during the rule of Bashar al-Assad. The arrest was confirmed by the Syrian Interior Ministry earlier today.
According to a statement released by the Internal Security Chief in Hama province, Brigadier General Mulham al-Shantout, security units, in cooperation with counter-terrorism forces, conducted a precise operation that led to al-Yassin’s apprehension. Al-Shantout stated that al-Yassin was wanted on an arrest warrant issued by the Public Prosecutor’s Office on charges related to war crimes and grave violations against civilians in several provinces during the previous regime.
Initial investigations reportedly indicate that al-Yassin was involved in conducting airstrikes targeting rebellious cities and towns. He is also accused of participating in aerial operations during the military campaign in eastern Idlib and the Hama countryside, resulting in massacres against innocent civilians.
The suspect has been referred to the relevant authorities for further investigation, pending his appearance before the competent judiciary for legal proceedings. The new Syrian administration is focused on stabilizing the security situation and pursuing remnants of the regime of ousted President Bashar al-Assad who are allegedly instigating unrest.
Syrian rebels entered Damascus on December 8, 2024, marking the end of Bashar al-Assad’s rule (2000-2024), who inherited power from his father, Hafez al-Assad (1970-2000). The Ba’ath regime imposed a tight security grip and committed widespread human rights violations, leading many Syrians to view their liberation as a national holiday.
