ICC Prosecutor Discusses War Crimes Accountability in Syria

International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim Khan visited Syria to discuss potential avenues for prosecuting alleged war crimes with the country's transitional government. In meetings with Syria's de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, Khan explored how the ICC could assist in accountability efforts, despite Syria not being a member state. He indicated that Syria could accept the ICC's jurisdiction, similar to Ukraine's response to Russian war crimes, marking a notable shift towards openness from the transitional authorities regarding justice. The discussions come amid a backdrop of the Syrian conflict that has resulted in over half a million deaths and widespread atrocities, including chemical attacks on civilians. Khan emphasized that the ICC is prepared to inform Syrian leaders about their options for pursuing justice. The visit underscores the ongoing international focus on accountability for crimes committed during Syria's protracted conflict.