The wife and daughter of Rasha Khazem, former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's cousin, were arrested on Friday at Beirut International Airport as they attempted to leave with allegedly forged passports. Rasha Khazem, the wife of Duraid Assad—who is the son of the notorious Rifaat Assad—was detained alongside her daughter, Shams, after they were found trying to fly to Egypt.
The arrests occurred just one day after Rifaat Assad, who has been indicted by Swiss federal prosecutors for war crimes, flew out of the country without issue, utilizing his legitimate passport. According to Lebanese security sources, the circumstances of the women's attempted flight raised red flags, confirming their illegal entry and the use of falsified documents.
Rifaat Assad, often dubbed the "Butcher of Hama" for his brutal military tactics during the 1980s, has long been associated with horrific acts during his tenure. Just recently, he was charged for crimes against humanity stemming from incidents over four decades ago, indicating the dark legacy he left behind. Meanwhile, many of his relatives are finding themselves embroiled in complicated legal quandaries following the fall of the Assad regime.
Upon their arrest, Rasha and Shams Khazem were swiftly placed under the jurisdiction of the Lebanese General Security forces. Although reports from various Lebanese outlets indicate their illegal transportation to Lebanon and unsuccessful efforts to escape, significant ramifications could arise from their detainment, considering the geopolitical history intertwined with the Assad family.
Lebanon has seen heightened tensions and influxes of Syrians amid the tumultuous political climate. It is estimated tens of thousands of Syrians entered Lebanon illegally following the recent downfall of the Assad government as insurgent forces swept through Damascus, signaling the end of decades-long rule.
Notably, Lebanese authorities have cracked down on individuals linked to the former regime. Reports emerged of more than 20 members affiliated with Syrian military intel and the notorious 4th Division being arrested, with incidents of individuals trying to sell military-grade weapons. These developments are indicative of the chaotic aftermath of the power shift, as those loyal to the old regime attempt to navigate the shifting political landscapes.
The Lebanese government is also facing the challenge of international pressure as noted by its caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati. Mikati disclosed Lebanon's intention to cooperate with Interpol's requests pertaining to detained figures tied to the Assad regime, including Jamil al-Hassan, the former head of Syrian intelligence, who remains at large.
The situation highlights the war’s remnants, with the U.N. and other international organizations keeping watchful eyes on the shifting allegiances and trust factors. This spate of arrests has stirred conversations around accountability and transformation within the region.
Rifaat Assad's return to Syria—conditional on his forbearance from political ventures—has raised eyebrows among analysts, showcasing the delicate balance and fluid nature of power dynamics. Reports suggest he had settled between Lebanon and Syria, especially after his familial connections played such pivotal roles during the long civil upheaval.
While Rasha and Shams Khazem's fateful encounter at Beirut Airport served to highlight their family's precarious situation, the broader narrative exists within the larger interplay of power shifts challenging long-held alliances and firmly entrenched power structures. The ramifications are yet to be fully explored, but this too may serve as one chapter of the Assad family's historical legacy drowned amid the waves of conflict.
Despite the turbulence, the fate of the former regime affiliates remains increasingly uncertain, especially as Lebanon navigates through its own turbulent seas influenced by the leadership and actions of its Syrian neighbors. The once-untouchable figures of the Assad regime are now facing scrutiny, both domestically and abroad.
Future developments should shed light on other potential arrests or the fate of those connected to the Assad family. The upcoming months may witness intensifying international scrutiny as figures like Rifaat—not just family members—come under increased pressure to confront the legacy and repercussions of their past actions.
