Asma al-Assad, 49, the wife of deposed Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad, is reportedly fighting for her life after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. According to Britain’s Telegraph, doctors have given her only a “50/50” chance of survival due to the severity of her condition.
Isolated for Protection
Currently under isolation to prevent infections that could further weaken her immune system, Asma al-Assad is receiving care in Moscow. Her father, Fawaz Akhras, a respected cardiologist from London’s Harley Street, has been by her side throughout her treatment.
A History of Health Struggles
The former Deutsche Bank employee and London-born Asma has been battling health issues for years. Diagnosed with breast cancer in the past, her leukemia is believed to have relapsed following an earlier remission. Reports suggest her condition worsened earlier this year, with treatment beginning in May.
Political and Personal Turmoil
The Assad family fled to Moscow after losing power in Syria amid rebel advances. While reports have circulated that Asma is dissatisfied with her life in Russia and wishes to return to London for treatment, UK officials have firmly opposed her return.
Robert Jenrick, a Conservative MP, stated, “Allowing Asma al-Assad to resume a luxury life in the UK would be an insult to the millions of victims of the Assad regime.”
Divorce Rumors
Speculation about Asma seeking a divorce from Bashar al-Assad has also surfaced, reportedly fueled by Turkish journalists citing Russian diplomatic sources. The Kremlin, however, has moved to deny these rumors, insisting that the reports are unfounded.
A Family Torn Between Nations
Sources close to the family revealed that Asma initially received treatment in the UAE before relocating to Moscow. Her father has been a primary caregiver, attending to her health needs over the last six months.
Despite the Kremlin’s denials, whispers of personal and political rifts within the Assad family continue to circulate, with Asma reportedly voicing dissatisfaction over her circumstances in Russia.
An Uncertain Future
As Asma battles her aggressive illness, the international community watches closely, with many questioning what her future holds. Her health crisis comes amidst the backdrop of a regime that has left a lasting and controversial legacy in Syria.
