The Syrian rebel groups that overthrew Bashar al-Assad’s government have just recently announced that they will grant amnesty to all military personnel conscripted into the army during his rule.
“Their lives are safe and no-one may assault them,” a spokesperson for the rebel forces said in a post on Telegram, Reuters news agency reported.
As a reminder, the anti-Assad rebels have been spearheaded by the Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Earlier, Arab and Syrian news outlets reported that Mohammed al-Bashir – a prominent figure in the group – will lead the country’s transitional government as interim prime minister.
Meanwhile, the head of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato), Mark Rutte, has said in a statement that he hopes for a “peaceful transition of power and an inclusive Syrian-led political process” adding Syria’s new leaders “must uphold the rule of law, protect civilians and respect religious minorities”.
“Russia and Iran were the main backers of the Assad regime, and they share the responsibility for the crimes committed against the Syrian people,” he added.
President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen echoed such calls, writing on X that Syria’s “territorial integrity and protection of minorities are critical”.
Earlier today, the UN human rights chief called for the perpetrators of human rights violations under the Assad regime to be held to account.
Speaking at a news conference in Geneva earlier today, Volker Türk urged rebel groups to uphold human rights in the country.
