Fares al-Shehabi
Fares al-Shehabi is a Syrian businessman and politician known for his support of Bashar al-Assad's regime during the Syrian civil war. As a member of the Syrian parliament, he has been involved in promoting the government's narrative and denying allegations of human rights abuses, including the use of chemical weapons. Al-Shehabi has faced economic sanctions from the EU due to his ties to the Assad regime, which has been accused of numerous war crimes. His controversial views and business interests have made him a polarizing figure, especially regarding his interactions with foreign delegations, including Irish politicians.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
The ISSM criticism of Ms Connolly follows previous controversy surrounding her meeting with Fares al-Shehabi.
Catherine Connolly pictured with man linked to war crimes in Syria – The Irish Times
Ireland· 2025-10-17
While in Aleppo, the Irish delegation met Syrian businessman and politician Fares al-Shehabi.
Catherine Connolly defends spending public money on Syria trip – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-10-09
Fares al-Shehabi is a Syrian businessman and politician who was a supporter of the Assad regime.
Catherine Connolly spent €3,700 from taxpayer-funded allowance on ‘Syria’ – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-10-09Fares al-Shehabi is a member of the Syrian parliament who supports Assad's regime.
Catherine Connolly’s continuing association with Clare Daly and Mick Wallace is troubling – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-08-29
