Syrian security forces detained Ibrahim Huweija, a former intelligence head, for his suspected involvement in the 1977 murder of Lebanese politician Kamal Jumblatt. Arrested during unrest in Latakia, Huweija’s history includes overseeing numerous assassinations during the Assad regime. Kamal Jumblatt, a critical voice against Syrian intervention in Lebanon, was killed in 1977, prompting reactions from his family regarding Huweija’s capture.
Syrian authorities have apprehended Ibrahim Huweija, a former intelligence chief, in connection with several murders, notably the 1977 assassination of Lebanese politician Kamal Jumblatt. Huweija, once the head of air force intelligence, was taken into custody amidst violent confrontations with supporters of Bashar al-Assad in Latakia. According to state news agency SANA, Huweija’s arrest came after extensive surveillance and investigative efforts.
Huweija led air force intelligence from 1987 until 2002, initially under Hafez al-Assad, the former president of Syria. Infrequently seen publicly, details regarding his activities remain limited. A security source alleged that he is responsible for numerous assassinations during Hafez al-Assad’s regime, including orchestrating the killing of Kamal Jumblatt, a prominent figure in Lebanon’s Druze community.
Kamal Jumblatt was a staunch critic of Hafez al-Assad and opposed Syrian military involvement in Lebanon during the civil war. He was tragically murdered on March 16, 1977, near the Syrian border. Following the announcement of Huweija’s arrest, Walid Jumblatt, Kamal’s son and political heir, publicly celebrated the news, expressing, “Allahu Akbar (God is Greatest).”
The arrest of Ibrahim Huweija marks a significant development in the ongoing efforts to address past political crimes in Syria. Huweija’s alleged role in numerous assassinations during the Assad regime, particularly the murder of Kamal Jumblatt, highlights the complex historical tensions between Lebanon and Syria. This incident underscores the broader implications of Syria’s tumultuous political landscape post-Assad’s rule.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com