Syrian forces arrested Ibrahim Huweija, a former intelligence chief implicated in the 1977 murder of Lebanese politician Kamal Jumblatt. The arrest occurred during clashes in Latakia province. Huweija, notable for his secrecy, is linked to numerous assassinations under Hafez al-Assad. Walid Jumblatt, son of the slain politician, welcomed the news, echoing sentiments of relief and justice.
In a significant development, Syrian security forces have apprehended Ibrahim Huweija, a former intelligence officer linked to several killings, including the 1977 assassination of Lebanese politician Kamal Jumblatt. This arrest took place during violent confrontations in Latakia province, described as the most intense fighting since the downfall of Bashar al-Assad in December.
Huweija, who oversaw air force intelligence from 1987 to 2002 under both Hafez and Bashar al-Assad, has long been a clandestine figure with little public visibility. His apprehension has been characterized by authorities as the result of extensive surveillance and investigation.
The source cited by the Syrian state news agency SANA indicated that Huweija is implicated in numerous assassinations during Hafez al-Assad’s regime, particularly highlighting his role in the assassination of Kamal Bek Jumblatt. Jumblatt, a notable figure in the Druze community and founder of the Lebanese Progressive Socialist Party, was murdered near the Syrian border on March 16, 1977, due to his opposition to Syrian military presence in Lebanon.
In response to Huweija’s capture, Walid Jumblatt, Kamal Jumblatt’s son and political successor, expressed his relief on social media, stating: “Allahu Akbar (God is Greatest).” His sentiment reflects the potential significance of this arrest in the broader context of accountability for past political violence in the region.
The arrest of Ibrahim Huweija marks a pivotal moment in efforts to address historical political violence in Syria and Lebanon. With his involvement in the assassination of Kamal Jumblatt and numerous other killings, this action has resonated within the political community, particularly among the Druze and the Lebanese Progressive Socialist Party. The arrest signifies a potential shift towards accountability amid ongoing instability in Syria following the ousting of the Assad regime.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
