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Summary:

Fouad Naal, a former imam, spent 21 years in Syrian prisons (Sednaya and Adra) under the Assad regime for issuing a fatwa against Syrians fighting in Iraq. He endured harsh conditions, including restrictions on religious practices and limited medical care. Following the Syrian uprising, he was moved to Adra prison where conditions were somewhat better. On December 8, 2024, he was freed when anti-Assad forces liberated the prison, marking the end of Assad’s rule. One year later, he recounts his experiences, highlighting the trauma endured by prisoners and emphasizing the role of Syrian youth in igniting the revolution. Despite his freedom, the years of imprisonment have left him with lingering effects.

News Article:

Syrian Imam Recounts 21 Years of Imprisonment Under Assad Regime

Damascus, Syria – Fouad Naal, 52, a former Syrian imam, is speaking out one year after being freed from 21 years of imprisonment under the brutal regime of Bashar al-Assad. Naal, who was held in the notorious Sednaya and Adra prisons until Assad’s ouster on December 8, 2024, describes the horrific conditions and the psychological toll endured by countless prisoners.

Naal’s ordeal began in 2004 when he issued a fatwa against Syrians participating in the Iraq War, a move he believes angered the Assad regime. He was arrested, along with his wife and young daughter, and sentenced to life in prison on fabricated charges of plotting to assassinate Assad.

“I had a bag packed, ready to go, every single day,” he said, recalling his unwavering hope for release. “I always thought: ‘Tomorrow, I will get out.'”

The Syrian uprising, which began in 2011, brought both hope and uncertainty to Naal and his fellow inmates. In 2012, he was transferred to Adra Central Prison, where conditions were somewhat improved.

On December 8, 2024, anti-Assad forces liberated Adra prison, finally freeing Naal and countless others. He describes the joyous chaos of that day, with prisoners breaking down doors and soldiers declaring their support.

Naal acknowledged the lasting impact of his imprisonment, including a dislike for closed spaces and difficulty sleeping. Despite his personal struggles, he emphasizes the importance of remembering the sacrifices of Syrian youth who ignited the revolution.

“The one who won the revolution was Hamza al-Khatib,” Naal said, referring to a 13-year-old boy tortured to death for participating in anti-regime protests.

Naal recently revisited Sednaya prison and recognizes its importance for finding justice for people in Syria and beyond. He hopes the end of Assad’s reign will bring lasting peace and justice to Syria.

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