In a landmark ruling that marks a significant milestone in the Syrian conflict, the Criminal Court in Damascus has sentenced Bashar al-Assad, former President of Syria, and Atef Najib, the ex-head of political security in Deraa province, to death. The verdict was handed down on Tuesday after both men were found guilty of premeditated murder and torture. Assad's conviction specifically relates to crimes against humanity committed by his government in Deraa province in 2011. This trial represents a crucial step towards accountability for the atrocities that have taken place during Syria's devastating civil war, with more developments expected to unfold in the coming days.