Syrian Authorities Release Jewish Antiquities Dealer After Weeks in Detention

DAMASCUS, Syria — Syrian authorities have released Salim Hamadani, one of the country’s few remaining Jewish residents, after he was held for several weeks on suspicion of illegal antiquities trading, according to a Jewish community activist.

Hamadani, an antiquities dealer based in Damascus, was detained earlier this month in a case that drew attention amid broader scrutiny of Syria’s treatment of minorities.

Justice has prevailed!! Truth has been found!! 🇸🇾🕊️🕊🕊
​I am profoundly happy to share that my dear friend Salim Hamadani has been released and cleared of all accusations. After 20 days, the legal system has confirmed what we knew in our hearts: Salim is an innocent man.
​I want… https://t.co/XdOUkd3IX8

— Joe Jajati (@JoeJajati) December 28, 2025

Joe Jajati, a Syrian-born Jewish activist living in New York who serves as a liaison between the Jewish community and Syrian officials, said Hamadani was freed after about 20 days in detention and was cleared of all charges.

In a post on X, Jajati said Syrian authorities handled the matter with professionalism and ensured a fair process. He said Hamadani was treated with dignity during his detention and emphasized that the arrest was not motivated by religious bias.

Hamadani’s detention came at a sensitive moment as Syria’s new government seeks to improve its international standing, particularly regarding the rights and treatment of minority communities.

Only a small number of Jews remain in Syria, most of them elderly. Syrian Jewish expatriates in the United States, including Jajati, have in recent months worked to establish dialogue with the government following its rise to power earlier this year.