Damascus: The Fourth Criminal Court in Damascus issued a death sentence in absentia today, Tuesday, against former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his brother Maher.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the court’s decision marks a significant and unprecedented legal action against the former president and his brother, who have been prominent figures in Syrian politics. The charges leading to this judgment have not been disclosed in detail, but the ruling is a notable development given the Assad family’s longstanding influence in the region.

The implications of this ruling remain uncertain as both Bashar and Maher al-Assad have been residing outside of Syria, reportedly in a location undisclosed to the public. The absence of the defendants during the trial has raised questions about the enforcement of this sentence and its potential impact on Syrian politics.

This decision by the Damascus court is expected to stir reactions both domestically and internationally, as former President Bashar al-Assad has been a contentious figure on the global stage. The next steps in the legal process and the reaction from international bodies are awaited with keen interest.