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On November 15, 2024, the United States reaffirmed its full support for the measures issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) one year ago, aimed at compelling the Syrian regime to prevent torture and other forms of cruel treatment, as well as protecting evidence related to these crimes.
the International Court of Justice, year ago, issued an order requiring the Syrian regime to take immediate measures to halt torture and human rights violations including other actions of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, as well as preventing the destruction of evidence of such acts, within detention centers.
In a statement, the U.S. Department of State described the court’s ruling as a response to the regime’s severe use of torture and other forms of mistreatment. It emphasized that the ICJ’s decision brought the international community one step closer to accountability for the thousands of victims and survivors of torture and other forms of cruel treatment in Syria.
Despite the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling, international organizations continue to monitor the grave violations committed by the Syrian regime. These violations include arbitrary detention, mistreatment within prisons, and even targeting returning refugees from Lebanon.
According to human rights reports, the number of people killed under torture since 2011 exceeds 15,000, including U.S. citizens.
In a step to reinforce its commitment to holding those responsible accountable, the U.S. Department of State announced the inclusion of Dean General Abdul Salam Fajr Mahmoud, known for his role in overseeing torture within detention centers operated by the Syrian regime Air Force, on the sanctions list under Section C (7031). The sanctions also target his wife and four adult children. The U.S. government stated that this action demonstrates its commitment to holding individuals accountable for serious human rights violations.
The United States also praised the ongoing efforts by Canada and the Netherlands, which brought the case before the International Court of Justice- (ICJ) to document the widespread violations committed by the Syrian regime, including torture and arbitrary detention. These countries have been instrumental in advancing international accountability through the International Court of Justice.
Written pleadings are expected to be submitted early next year, highlighting evidence related to the Syrian regime’s use of torture.
Same Justice For Human Rights rejects the violations committed by the Syrian regime against Syrians and the cruel treatment they endure. It calls for the accountability of all those responsible for the various types of violations and demands the protection of evidence related to these crimes.
