Damascus: Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa announced his government's intention to pursue all available legal avenues to hold former leader Bashar al-Assad accountable, while avoiding any conflict with Russia, which is currently hosting Assad. Sharaa emphasized the importance of using legal mechanisms to seek justice for the Syrian people without engaging in external conflicts.

According to Anadolu Agency, President Sharaa expressed his commitment to rebuilding hope and reconstructing Syria following the psychological trauma endured by generations under Assad's regime. In an interview with CBS News, Sharaa reflected on his ascension to the presidency and the negative legacy associated with the presidential palace, stating that much harm had come from it during Assad's rule.

President Sharaa highlighted that the actions taken by his government were confined to Syrian territory and solely targeted the oppressive regime. He asserted that their efforts were focused on liberating the Syrian people from the injustices imposed by Assad's government. Sharaa reiterated the intent to use legal means to bring Assad to justice, while acknowledging the potential costs and disadvantages of engaging in a conflict with Russia.

In a recent development, Damascus investigating judge Tawfiq al-Ali issued an arrest warrant for Assad in absentia, with plans to involve Interpol for international proceedings. Following Assad's ouster in December, Russia provided him and his family with 'humanitarian asylum', marking the end of his nearly 25-year rule and the Baath Party's long-standing control since 1963. A new transitional administration under Sharaa's leadership commenced in January.