Former Syrian Deputy Arrested in New Crackdown on Assad-Era Officials

Syrian authorities have announced the arrest of Major General Wajih Ali Al-Abdallah, a senior figure in the country’s previous regime, during a security operation. The Syrian Interior Ministry stated that this action was carried out in coordination with the Counter-Terrorism Directorate and is part of an ongoing process targeting political and military figures from Bashar al-Assad’s era.

According to the ministry, Al-Abdallah served as the military affairs head at the Syrian Presidential Palace for 13 years during Bashar al-Assad’s tenure. Current officials have described him as a close associate of the inner circle of the former regime.

The Interior Ministry alleges that the former general played a role in coordinating repressive measures and serious violations of civilian rights over past years. No further details have been released regarding the investigation process or the timing of a potential trial.

This arrest continues a campaign targeting military and security officials from the former Syrian government accused of human rights abuses. On Friday, General Khdral Ahmad Dioub was also arrested on charges of participation in a chemical attack on Eastern Ghouta near Damascus.

A few days earlier, Amjad Yousef, another official from the former Damascus government, was detained on similar charges. Authorities have stated that this process will continue until all related cases from the previous regime are thoroughly reviewed.