Asma al-Assad, the wife of Syria's ousted President Bashar al-Assad, is seeking divorce. She has filed for divorce in a Russian court. So, who is Asma al-Assad, often referred to as Syria's Princess Diana but also as Lady Macbeth?
Born in August 1975 in London, Asma al-Akhras's mother was a Syrian diplomat and her father a cardiologist. Asma holds degrees in Computer Science and French Literature. Before marrying Bashar, she worked as an investment banker, collaborating with Deutsche Bank and JP Morgan.
A secret wedding with Bashar...
Asma holds both British and Syrian citizenship. In 2000, she settled in Syria and married Bashar al-Assad. It is said that Bashar secretly wed Asma just months after becoming Syria's president in 2000. At the time, thanks to her engaging personality and style, she was likened to Syria's Princess Diana, frequently touring the country with Bashar to connect with the people and understand their issues.
Source: aajtak
Asma, now 49, once symbolized female liberation in the Middle East. However, the harsh rule of her husband, Bashar, shadowed her image. During the Arab Spring in 2011, when the Middle East was in flames, Bashar's brutal crackdowns severely dented Asma's reputation.
An uprising in Syria and Asma's Vogue appearance
In 2018, Asma was entrusted with a significant role in managing Syria's economy. She became involved with various committees and policies related to food rations, internet access, and foreign aid.
In February 2011, amidst Syrian uprisings, Vogue published an article about Asma titled
'A Rose in the Desert'
. Journalist Joan Juliet Buck described Asma as the most charismatic and stylish first lady. However, the article's timing was unfortunate.
Source: aajtak
The article was published when Bashar's regime killed over 5,000 protesters, including children, inciting public outrage. Vogue soon removed the piece from its website. Thus, Asma, once 'Syria's Princess Diana', became known as the 'First Lady of Hell'.
British passport to be revoked?
Asma al-Assad expressed her desire to move to Britain post-divorce. However, Britain hinted at no place for her. Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated that she is unwelcome in Britain, and there are possibilities of her British passport being revoked.
Source: aajtak
Lammy informed Parliament that Asma holds British citizenship and might attempt to enter the country, but confirmed that she won't be welcomed due to sanctions against her. Back in 2012, her properties in Britain were frozen.
From Syria to Russia, seeking a new home
Following the overthrow in Syria, the Assad family took refuge in Russia. Asma is reportedly unhappy with her life there, prompting her to seek divorce from Bashar. She desires to return to Britain post-divorce and has filed for divorce in a Russian court, seeking special permission to leave Moscow.
