Syrian general accused of atrocities is protected by U.S. and Lebanon, NPR and BBC find

A joint investigation by the BBC and NPR has alleged that former Syrian general Bassam al-Hassan, wanted for crimes against humanity and overseeing Syria's chemical weapons program, is being protected and funded by U.S. and Lebanese authorities. The arrangement reportedly grants Hassan residency and financial support in Lebanon in exchange for intelligence regarding missing American journalist Austin Tice and Syria's military ties to Iran. While Syrian government officials have reportedly requested Hassan's return for trial, the U.S. reportedly prefers he remain in Lebanon. The FBI declined to comment on the specific allegations, citing a focus on securing Tice's return.

A joint investigation by the BBC and NPR has alleged that former Syrian general Bassam al-Hassan, wanted for crimes against humanity and overseeing Syria's chemical weapons program, is being protected and funded by U.S. and Lebanese authorities. The arrangement reportedly grants Hassan residency and financial support in Lebanon in exchange for intelligence regarding missing American journalist Austin Tice and Syria's military ties to Iran. While Syrian government officials have reportedly requested Hassan's return for trial, the U.S. reportedly prefers he remain in Lebanon. The FBI declined to comment on the specific allegations, citing a focus on securing Tice's return.