Major General Bassam Al Hassan, a former ally of Assad, asserts he was ordered to execute Tice, with ongoing investigations by US officials into the claims and potential burial locations. Tice’s family continues to seek answers as they wait for developments.
Allegations Arise: Ousted Syrian Leader Bashar al-Assad Ordered Execution of Missing Journalist
Allegations Arise: Ousted Syrian Leader Bashar al-Assad Ordered Execution of Missing Journalist
An ex-Syrian commander claims that Austin Tice, the American journalist missing since 2012, was executed on Bashar al-Assad's orders, intensifying the search for his remains.
The disappearance of Austin Tice, an American journalist who vanished near Damascus in August 2012, has taken a new and alarming turn. Major General Bassam Al Hassan, a former commander within Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's inner circle, has claimed that Tice was executed on Assad's orders. This claim emerged from upcoming BBC investigations revealed in a podcast dedicated to Tice's case.
Tice was a freelance journalist when he was abducted just days after his 31st birthday. Despite consistent denials from the Assad regime regarding knowledge of Tice's whereabouts, a BBC investigation indicates he was held in Damascus. Al Hassan, who oversaw the facility where Tice was allegedly detained, has met with US law enforcement officials multiple times, reportedly relaying that he attempted to persuade Assad against executing Tice but ultimately enabled the order's execution.
Reports suggest that Al Hassan has also provided specific locations to US investigators that may contain Tice's remains. However, Western intelligence sources remain skeptical of Al Hassan's assertions regarding Assad's direct involvement, as the dictator is known for avoiding direct culpability.
As the anniversary of her son's abduction nears, Debra Tice, Austin’s mother, has tirelessly advocated for his return. After learning about Al Hassan’s meetings with US officials, she sought to connect with him personally, stating her desire was to speak as a mother. Although her attempt was unsuccessful, Debra continues to hold onto the belief that her son is still alive. Additionally, a former NDF member indicated Tice’s significance may have been utilized in diplomatic dealings with the US, adding another layer to this complex and ongoing situation.
Despite the bleak findings, U.S. presidents have maintained hope that Tice is alive, reiterating commitment to efforts aimed at securing his return. In December 2024, President Biden publicly expressed belief in Tice's survival and ongoing recovery efforts, despite lacking direct evidence to confirm his status. The pursuit for justice and closure continues for Debra Tice and advocates involved in her son’s case.
