Protests Erupt in Douma Demanding Answers for Abducted Syrian Activists

Activists in Douma protest 11 years after the abduction of four prominent figures, including Khalil and Zeitouneh, demanding accountability from Syria’s new rulers, who have denounced any involvement from Jaish al-Islam, despite evidence suggesting otherwise.

In the city of Douma, which resides near Damascus, a gathering took place on Wednesday, calling for accountability regarding the abduction of four notable activists: Khalil, Razan Zeitouneh, Wael Hamada, and Nazem al-Hammadi. These individuals were snatched from their human rights organization’s office in December 2013 by unidentified gunmen. Activist Yassin Al-Haj Saleh, whose spouse is among the abducted, expressed urgency for transparency concerning the disappearances, demanding action from the recently established rulers of Syria, who are led by Islamist factions.

The protests come as a response to a long-standing injustice; the activists were instrumental during the 2011 uprising against the government of Bashar al-Assad, and also reported on the violations of the Islamist group Jaish al-Islam, which initially governed the Douma region. The absence of the activists and the lack of accountability have left many families and supporters distressed, with an immense number of individuals having vanished throughout the conflict.

Despite widespread speculation attributing blame to Jaish al-Islam for the abductions, the group has refuted any involvement. Al-Haj Saleh underscored his desire to hold accountable those responsible, stating that there exists substantial evidence implicating Jaish al-Islam and highlighting the necessity for legal recourse within Syrian courts. The ongoing struggle for the truth regarding these cases represents a pivotal issue for Syria’s interim governance.

The civil war in Syria, ignited by protests against President Bashar al-Assad in 2011, has led to an alarming increase in human rights violations, including widespread abductions. The activists mentioned were part of the initial wave of rebellion and dedicated their efforts to documenting violations and advocating for accountability. Their disappearance represents not only a personal tragedy for their families and friends but also signifies the broader climate of fear and repression prevalent in wartime Syria. Over the years, the search for missing individuals has become emblematic of a larger quest for justice and truth in a nation torn apart by conflict.

The protests in Douma reflect the ongoing demand for justice and the right to know the fate of missing individuals, particularly those who played significant roles in the resistance against oppressive regimes. As activists and families continue to seek answers 11 years after the abductions, the necessity for a thorough investigation and accountability becomes increasingly critical in the quest for truth among the scars left by the Syrian civil war.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com