On Tuesday, France issued an international arrest warrant for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad for crimes against humanity against his own people. This is a major escalation of international condemnation against the president for his actions in Syria’s civil war, which began in 2011.
The indictment, issued by France’s judiciary, included a list of 35 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity. These include the use of chemical weapons, extrajudicial executions, sexual violence, and the torture of prisoners ostensibly in retaliation for peaceful protests.
The warrant was issued following an investigation by the United Nations’ Commission of Inquiry into Syria, which concluded that Assad had committed numerous crimes against humanity. This is the first time France has taken such a strong stance against Assad, and the move could draw other countries into applying further pressure on the Syrian government.
The move by France is also a major blow to Assad’s allies in Russia and Iran, which have backed the Syrian regime throughout the seven-year civil war. Both countries are now under increased pressure to take action against Assad, either by condemning his crimes against his own people or by withdrawing their support completely.
The French indictment could also bring attention to the plight of the millions of Syrian refugees that have been displaced by the conflict. Such international attention could force Assad to take action to ease the suffering of his people and work towards a lasting peace in Syria.
No matter the outcome of this case, the indictment is a powerful symbol of the international community’s condemnation of Assad’s actions, and a reminder of the importance of the rule of law.