Syrian Coastal Investigation Committee Withholds Findings Amid Ongoing War Crimes Probe

Press conference of the Syrian Coastal Investigation and Fact-Finding Committee – North Press.
Press conference of the Syrian Coastal Investigation and Fact-Finding Committee – North Press.

By Kardo Roj

DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – The Syrian Coastal Investigation and Fact-Finding Committee announced on Tuesday that it cannot yet disclose findings regarding those involved in past atrocities in the coastal region, citing the need for further verification and legal frameworks.

During a press conference at the Ministry of Information, Yasser al-Farhan, the committee’s spokesperson, stated that military personnel were documented as being involved in war crimes at the Russian-operated Hmeimim Airbase. However, no definitive conclusions have been reached regarding the full extent of their roles.

Al-Farhan emphasized that the United Nations has held multiple meetings with the committee, offering expertise and ensuring the neutrality of the investigation. “We have met with the UN envoy to Syria and have been given guarantees that the truth will be revealed,” he added.

The committee has conducted field visits to villages affected by attacks on security personnel and civilians. According to al-Farhan, witnesses were willing to testify, yet fear remains a significant challenge, as many locals are hesitant to speak out due to the lingering presence of former regime operatives.

One of the most alarming discoveries involves mass graves, where remnants of the previous government allegedly buried security personnel. “Witnesses claim that remnants of the former regime buried many security officers in mass graves. We are working with international bodies to identify the victims,” said al-Farhan.

The committee has so far interviewed 95 witnesses, but investigators stress that more time is needed to reach solid conclusions.

Al-Farhan noted that a transitional justice law is expected soon, which will allow for the prosecution of individuals implicated in war crimes. The Attorney General in Damascus has already issued arrest warrants for key suspects.

Despite challenges, the committee remains committed to its mission. “We are working at full capacity, and while the process could take over a month, we have accepted this timeframe,” said al-Farhan. The committee has requested an extension of its mandate and will present preliminary findings to the Syrian president.

Legal and forensic experts, including members of the public prosecutor’s office and forensic medicine teams, are assisting in the investigation. Efforts also include visits to morgues holding unidentified bodies, aiming to document and verify victims.

The investigation remains open to all parties, including civil society organizations, security officials, and victims’ families. “We have heard testimonies from civilians, military personnel, and families of victims,” al-Farhan confirmed.

As the committee continues its work, the search for truth and accountability remains a key priority, with international observers closely monitoring the process.