military

Air Force Intelligence Detention — Mazzeh

Mazzeh Air Force Intelligence • Branch 235 Air Force • Air Force Intelligence Prison • Jamil Hassan Branch

Confirmed

Journey Available

Air Force Intelligence: Above the Law in Damascus

The Air Force Intelligence Directorate's detention facility near Mazzeh Military Airport, Damascus, was among the most feared in Syria. Under the command of General Jamil Hassan (director 2009–2019), the facility was used to detain, torture, and disappear thousands. Jamil Hassan was indicted in absentia by a French court in 2018 and by German courts for crimes against humanity. The facility is distinct from Palestine Branch (Military Intelligence) — it belonged to a separate agency reporting directly to Bashar al-Assad. Survivors describe it as one of the most methodically brutal facilities in the Syrian intelligence apparatus.

Notable Events

  • Jamil Hassan indicted by French court 2018 for crimes against humanity
  • EU and US sanctions on Jamil Hassan
  • Liberation December 8, 2024

Known Officials

  • Jamil Hassan (Director, 2009–2019; indicted for crimes against humanity)
  • Ibrahim Huwaija (former deputy)

Key Information

Operated by:Air Force Intelligence Directorate (Idarat al-Mukhabarat al-Jawwiya)
Mazzeh, Damascus, Syria
1970 – 2024
Thousands; exact numbers unknown
Confirmed

This information is based on public sources and documented reports.