The Syrian Future Movement expresses its deep concern and strong condemnation of the arrest of both Syrian human rights activist Taha Al-Ghazi on Friday, May 17, 2025, and Syrian journalist Ghassan Yassin on Saturday, May 18, 2025, in Turkey, without clear legal justification and under procedures that lack the minimum standards of transparency and justice.
The Syrian Future Movement views the arrest of Taha Al-Ghazi—well-known for his continuous defense of Syrian refugee rights—and the decision to forcibly deport him to Syria as a dangerous precedent in targeting Syrian activists in Turkey. It constitutes a blatant violation of international standards for refugee protection. Likewise, the detention of journalist Ghassan Yassin, who has played a key role in covering Syrian affairs, sends a troubling message regarding the increasing restrictions on Syrian journalists.
The Syrian Future Movement calls on the Syrian government to take immediate action by addressing the Turkish authorities and demanding respect for the rights of Syrians residing in Turkey, ensuring they are not subjected to arbitrary arrests or forced deportation that threatens their safety and lives.
The Syrian Future Movement stresses that protecting freedom of expression and refugee rights are fundamental pillars of any political process aimed at achieving stability and safeguarding the dignity of Syrians—both within Syria and in host countries. We also urge relevant international organizations, foremost among them the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), to pressure the Turkish government to halt any arbitrary actions against Syrians residing there.
The Syrian Future Movement affirms its full solidarity with Mr. Taha Al-Ghazi and Mr. Ghassan Yassin, as well as all Syrian activists facing restrictions, and we emphasize the necessity of respecting fundamental freedoms, which are the cornerstone of any democratic society that upholds human rights.
