Life-Sentenced Syrian Mercenaries from 44-Day War Transferred from Armenia to Syria

Armenia has transferred two Syrian citizens who were sentenced to life imprisonment for their role in the 44-day war to the Syrian Arab Republic. The transfer took place on January 13 through the territory of Turkey, according to Armenia’s Ministry of Justice.

The individuals, Yousef Alabed al-Haji and Muhrab Muhammad al-Shkheri, were handed over to the competent authorities of Syria so that the enforcement of their life sentences can continue in their country of citizenship. Armenian officials stated that the transfer was carried out within the framework of cooperation between relevant state bodies and in accordance with existing legal mechanisms.

Both men were convicted in Armenia in 2021 and sentenced to life in prison. Armenian courts found them guilty of multiple serious crimes, including international terrorism, mercenarism, and grave violations of international humanitarian law committed during armed conflict. The convictions were linked to their participation in hostilities during the 2020 war.

During the 44-day war in 2020, Syrian mercenaries were transported to Azerbaijan through Turkey. According to law enforcement information, they crossed the border without any official documents. Before being deployed to the conflict zone, they reportedly took part in military training programs in Syria between June and September of that year.

Authorities stated that the mercenaries were promised payment for participating in the fighting. The offered sum was reported to be 2,000 US dollars. In addition, public calls were allegedly made encouraging extreme violence against Armenians, including instructions to kill civilians and soldiers alike. Reports also stated that an additional monetary reward was promised for each Armenian killed.

The involvement of foreign mercenaries in the 2020 conflict has been a major concern for Armenian authorities and international observers. Armenia has repeatedly stated that the use of such fighters represents a serious violation of international law and undermines regional security.

By transferring the convicted individuals to Syria, Armenia emphasized that the legal responsibility and enforcement of the court verdicts would continue under the supervision of Syrian authorities. The Ministry of Justice noted that the process followed established legal procedures and inter-state agreements.

—

Support independent reporting from the region by subscribing to The Armenian Report. Our team is funded solely by readers like you.