Family Sues Syrian Government Over Psychotherapist's Death

The family of Majd Kamalmaz, an American psychotherapist who disappeared in Syria in 2017, has filed a lawsuit against the Syrian government, seeking at least $70 million in damages for wrongful death, torture, and false imprisonment. The lawsuit claims that Kamalmaz was abducted by regime forces at a checkpoint in Damascus and died in custody, a fact later confirmed by U.S. intelligence. His daughter, Maryam Kamalmaz, expressed hope that the case would raise awareness of the broader issue of Syrian detainees facing similar fates. The legal action is pursued under the U.S. Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act's 'state sponsor of terrorism' exception, aiming to hold the Assad regime accountable. Kamalmaz was known for his humanitarian work with Syrian refugees and had been in Syria to establish a clinic for trauma victims. The case underscores the plight of many Syrians who have faced arbitrary detention and violence during the ongoing conflict.