News: On Monday, October 27, 2025, Majd Ramadan al-Henshal, 25, was killed when members of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) opened fire on him while he was in his car in the town of al-Kasra, in the western Deir ez-Zor countryside, after he overtook one of their military vehicles. He was shot and killed instantly. The area is under the control of the Syrian Democratic Forces.
We are continuing our investigation, including reviewing and gathering further evidence and information. We urge anyone with information or details related to this incident to contact us via our official email address: [email protected]
Legal Conclusions:
- The act of Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) personnel opening fire on an unarmed civilian, without any direct threat to these forces, constitutes a grave violation of the right to life.
- This incident highlights the absence of disciplinary and accountability mechanisms within the forces controlling the area, particularly given the lack of any immediate legal action against the responsible personnel, thus perpetuating a culture of impunity.
The Syrian Network for Human Rights recommends:
- An immediate and impartial investigation into the incident, overseen by an independent body, should be launched. This investigation must include a review of the orders given for firing, the interrogation of the personnel who opened fire, and the determination of direct criminal responsibility.
- Those responsible for the shooting should be held accountable in a fair trial, including a trial before a competent civilian court that guarantees the victim’s rights and ensures transparent proceedings.
- The family of the civilian, Majd Ramadan al-Henshal, should receive immediate and appropriate compensation, including material, moral, and psychological support, in accordance with international standards for reparations.
- SDF personnel should undergo retraining and rehabilitation in accordance with human rights standards and principles governing the use of force, and internal military oversight should be implemented at these sites.
- The Syrian government in Damascus has a responsibility to protect Syrian citizens throughout Syrian territory, provide them with compensation, and hold perpetrators of violations accountable.
