Syria has commenced a landmark trial of Atef Najib, a former brigadier general and head of political security in Deraa, accused of overseeing a violent crackdown on protesters during the early stages of the civil war in 2011. This trial, the first of its kind since the conflict began, symbolizes a potential shift towards accountability for the actions of the Assad regime. Najib faces charges described as “crimes against the Syrian people,” stemming from his role in the arrests and alleged torture of teenagers who had expressed dissent against the government. Outside the courtroom in Damascus, family members of victims gathered, marking a significant moment for many who view this trial as a step towards justice. Notably, while Najib is the only defendant physically present, former president Bashar al-Assad and his brother Maher al-Assad, among others, have also been charged with serious crimes, including torture and killings. The trial is being held under the current leadership, which has faced scrutiny for delaying such proceedings after Assad's removal from power in 2024. Recent arrests of other officials linked to past atrocities suggest that the justice process is gaining momentum, with this trial expected to continue in the coming weeks.