The International Court of Justice has announced its decision to issue the final ruling in the lawsuit filed by the Netherlands and Canada against the Assad regime. The case revolves around the Assad regime’s violation of the Convention Against Torture, inhumane treatment of detainees, enforced disappearance, and other charges. The decision is scheduled to be delivered on Thursday, November 16.
Alan Kessel, the head of the Canadian legal team, emphasized that the Assad regime’s non-participation in the proceedings does not shield it from the court’s directives. Kessel asserted that both Canada and the Netherlands insist on a response from the Assad regime regarding the widespread torture reported in Syria. Among the demands submitted to the court by Kessel is the immediate implementation of effective measures by the Assad regime to halt and prevent all acts amounting to torture and other forms of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.
This decision follows the cancellation of the second hearing on October 10, attributed to the absence of the Assad regime representative during the initial hearing session.
The Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC) has welcomed the positive developments initiated by the International Court of Justice in prosecuting the Assad regime for its crimes against the Syrian population from 2011 onwards.
The SOC underscored that achieving justice and holding the perpetrators of war crimes and crimes against humanity accountable is essential for lasting peace in Syria. The organization emphasized the unwavering support and keen interest of the Syrian people in these efforts to attain justice for the victims and their families, asserting that justice for the victims of these crimes and violations is eagerly awaited.
(Source: SOC’s Media Department)
