Germany Warns Assad Supporters Fleeing Atrocities Won’t Be Welcome

Germany’s foreign minister has issued a strong warning to anyone involved in atrocities under the regime of ousted Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad, stating that they will face legal consequences if they attempt to seek refuge in Germany. The country has been a major destination for Syrian refugees over the past decade, with several hundred thousand Syrians currently living there. In recent years, Germany has convicted former Syrian secret police officers for their roles in the abuse of detainees.

Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock made it clear that those who were complicit in the Syrian regime’s crimes will be held accountable. She emphasized that Germany would take legal action against anyone involved in torturing detainees under Assad’s rule, stating that the country would use “the full force of the law” to ensure justice. Baerbock also called for closer cooperation between international security agencies and intelligence services to prevent perpetrators from fleeing.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser assured that Germany is “extremely vigilant” in monitoring its borders and has implemented measures to reduce irregular migration. She reiterated that no one involved in atrocities would be safe from prosecution in Germany. Faeser pointed to previous convictions as proof of Germany’s commitment to pursuing justice in such cases.

While Germany has emphasized its commitment to prosecuting war crimes, it has also reassured well-integrated refugees that they are welcome to stay. Chancellor Olaf Scholz addressed concerns about the return of Syrians to their homeland, acknowledging that many refugees hope to return once conditions allow. However, he stressed that the future of Syria under Assad’s absence remains uncertain, and only time will reveal the country’s direction.