Rifaat al-Assad dies, known for bloody repression in 1982 syrian uprising
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- Rifaat al-Assad, brother of former Syrian President Hafez al-Assad, dies.
- Controversial figure linked to 1982 crackdown on Syrian civilians.
Rifaat al-Assad, brother of former Syrian President Hafez al-Assad, has died, according to two sources cited by Reuters on Wednesday.
Controversial legacy
Rifaat was a key figure in the violent suppression of the 1982 Syrian uprising. He led the “Defense Companies,” a paramilitary force accused of committing massacres against civilians during the crackdown. His role in these events has made him one of Syria’s most controversial figures.
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Family confirms privately
The news emerged quietly within the family. Rifaat’s son, Swar al-Assad, posted a black image on social media mourning his father and replaced his profile picture with a photo of the two together. Friends and followers offered condolences in the comments, confirming the death.
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The passing of Rifaat al-Assad marks the end of a life closely intertwined with Syria’s turbulent modern history, leaving behind a controversial legacy that continues to shape perceptions of the Assad family’s rule.
