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.

 

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.

 

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.