The Syrian regime's recent move to seize the assets of 35 individuals on smuggling charges has sparked attention and raised eyebrows.
Beyond the unusually high number of people targeted at once, it is the profiles and affiliations of these individuals that add further intrigue to the situation. In addition to statesmen, the list comprises several militia commanders, all of whom have extensive connections to the regime and its ally, Iran.
On the surface, this decision appears to be a resolute stance against illicit financial activities. However, upon delving deeper, it becomes evident that there is an underlying agenda at play.
In addition to securing political gains regionally, this move seems to be part of a larger strategy aimed at extracting money from cronies who have neglected their financial obligations to the regime.
Leaked document
The seizure made headlines when a leaked document surfaced earlier this month. Among the names listed in the document is Firas Al-Jaham, also known as "Firas Al-Iraqi," a prominent figure and commander of the "National Defence Forces" militia.
Another individual targeted by the decision is Hassan Al-Ghadban, a notable leader in the "Fourth Division" militia, which is led by Maher al-Assad, the brother of the Syrian president. Additionally, the decision casts its net over Mudallal Omar Al-Aziz, a member of parliament.