DAMASCUS
Syria’s plans to convert a military airport in Damascus into a private-jet hub are facing opposition from rights groups and residents who fear construction could disturb suspected mass graves and revive unresolved property disputes.
The civil aviation authority said it was preparing to reclassify Mezzeh military airport for limited civilian use, private and executive aviation, alongside Damascus International Airport. Rubble removal and infrastructure work have begun, according to SANA.
The redevelopment has raised concerns because Mezzeh played a central role in the security apparatus of ousted President Bashar al-Assad and his father, Hafez al-Assad. The airport housed Air Force Intelligence facilities and detention centres where opponents were allegedly tortured, executed and forcibly disappeared.
Documents reviewed show military officials approved Mezzeh in 2012 as an execution site for detainees sentenced to death by military field courts. Officials discussed using a firing range and a hangar near the runway, while construction was ordered under secrecy.
The Syria Justice and Accountability Centre has identified two suspected grave sites inside the airport linked to detainees who died there. The group said more than 1,150 detainees died at Mezzeh through executions, torture or maltreatment.
In a September 8 letter, SJAC warned Syria’s National Commission for Missing Persons that excavation and construction could damage remains and evidence needed to identify victims. The group said it had not received a response.
Rights advocates say development should wait until the site is investigated and protected, highlighting the difficult balance between attracting investment and addressing Assad-era abuses.