Ismail al Ghantawi

Ismail al Ghantawi is a Syrian survivor of the notorious Saidnaya prison, often referred to as the 'gulag of Bashar al-Assad.' He endured 11 years of imprisonment, during which he faced severe torture and dehumanization. After being wrongfully accused of financing terrorism, Ismail was subjected to brutal interrogations and forced confessions. His harrowing experiences in the prison, characterized by unspeakable suffering and loss, highlight the plight of many Syrians during the ongoing civil conflict. Following his release, he has shared his story to honor the memory of fellow inmates, while grappling with the trauma of his past.