Civil Peace Committee clarifies importance of Fadi Saqr's role and confirms release of former officers

Civil Peace Committee member Hassan Soufan emphasized that the measures taken by the committee primarily aim to calm societal tensions and pave the way for a state of citizenship and law in Syria. He pointed out that the country entered this path against its will due to the crimes of the former regime. Soufan explained that the transitional justice sought by Syrians will be best achieved through reason and holding only the most serious criminals accountable.

During a press conference held today at the Ministry of Information, Soufan explained that the released officers are active officers who surrendered voluntarily in 2021 as part of the Operations Directorate's appeal for safety for those who did not participate in the violations.

He added that these officers were investigated and no charges of war crimes have been proven against them, and their continued imprisonment could increase tension and not serve the national interest.

He pointed out that what is happening is not an alternative to the transitional justice process initiated by the National Transitional Justice Commission, but rather part of civil peace measures aimed at reducing tension and paving the way for a state of law.

Soufan highlighted the vital role played by Fadi Saqr in unraveling the rift and resolving the issues, emphasizing that granting him security was a political decision to protect civil peace and prevent bloodshed.

Soufan expressed his understanding of the pain and anger of the families of the martyrs, but emphasized that the current situation requires difficult decisions to avoid more violent explosions and ensure relative stability. He noted that true justice can only be achieved through a strong state and established institutions.

He added that the Civil Peace Committee is working behind the scenes to achieve significant achievements that have prevented bloodshed, and that future steps will be announced in due course. He expressed the importance of two parallel tracks: civil peace and transitional justice, with civil peace currently a priority to provide solid groundwork.

For his part, Interior Ministry spokesman Noureddine Al-Baba said that the ministry believes in a fair trial for those involved in war crimes, noting the formation of a new department to liaise with Interpol to pursue perpetrators of these crimes. He warned against externally supported groups seeking to undermine civil peace.

The Interior Ministry spokesman emphasized the cooperation of some former regime officers with the state during the "Deterrence of Aggression" campaign, which contributed to the liberation of several areas. He added that the ministry is seriously monitoring kidnappings and crimes to maintain security.