The trial of Aatif Najib, the former head of the Political Security Branch in Daraa, evokes memories of the painful beginnings of the protests in the city, where many victims expressed mixed feelings of hope and anxiety. This trial represents a historic moment for the people of Daraa who have suffered from violations over the past years.
Maawiya Sayasna, one of the children detained in 2011, expressed his feelings by saying, "I never imagined I would see him behind bars." Sayasna traveled 100 kilometers from Daraa to Damascus to attend the trial, indicating that this moment feels like a dream to him.
Details of the Event
The case of Hamza al-Khateeb remains a prominent symbol of suffering for Syrians, as many consider it a representation of the pain endured. His brother, Sarqa al-Khateeb, followed the proceedings of the trial, expressing his relief at this step, and confirmed that Aatif Najib is one of the main officials responsible for torturing his brother. This trial could be the beginning of accountability for all those involved in the violations.
Amineh Abazeid, a resident of Daraa, linked the trial to the killing of her nephew Murshid, who lost his life during the storming of Daraa al-Balad in April 2011. She emphasized that the family views the trial as an opportunity to reclaim the rights of a child who had no connection to what happened.
Background & Context
Aatif Najib is the cousin of ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, and he served as the head of the Political Security Branch in Daraa until 2011. The agency he led played a significant role in pursuing demonstrators, especially after the incident of detaining children, which marked a turning point in events in Syria.
The incident sparked a wave of public outrage, leading to escalating protests in Daraa and their spread to other areas. In January 2025, security forces arrested Aatif Najib during a security campaign in Latakia, which was seen as an important step in holding former security officials accountable.
Impact & Consequences
The trial of Aatif Najib is considered a milestone in the path to justice in Syria, as many believe it could open the door for accountability of more officials responsible for violations. Mazen Abu Nabut, a resident of Daraa, emphasized the need to expedite judicial procedures and uncover the entities that issued orders to fire on civilians.
Feelings in Daraa range from relief to anxiety, as residents look forward to achieving justice. Milad Zatima, a local resident, considered the trial an important step but insufficient, calling for a complete revelation of the chain of responsibilities.
Regional Significance
This trial is an indicator of the possibility of achieving justice in countries that have witnessed similar violations. Holding those responsible for violations accountable could enhance people's trust in judicial systems and open new horizons for justice in the region.
In conclusion, the trial of Aatif Najib represents a historic opportunity for the people of Daraa to reclaim their rights, and it may be the beginning of a broader path to justice in Syria.