A Swedish court has sentenced Osama Krayem to life in prison for his role in the 2015 killing of a Jordanian pilot who was burned alive in a cage by ISIL (ISIS) in Syria. The Stockholm District Court found Krayem guilty of “serious war crimes and terrorist crimes”. Krayem is already serving long prison sentences for his role in the Paris and Brussels attacks in 2015 and 2016.
Judge Anna Liljenberg Gullesjo stated that the investigation showed Krayem was “at the execution site, uniformed and armed, and allowed himself to be filmed”. Although another man lit the fire that killed Muath al-Kassasbeh, the judge said Krayem’s actions contributed significantly to the death of the victim, making him a perpetrator.
The Jordanian pilot was captured by ISIL fighters in December 2014 after his aircraft crashed in Syria. A gruesome video emerged in February 2015, showing the pilot being burned alive in a cage. The video sparked international outrage, and Jordan declared a period of mourning following al-Kassasbeh’s killing.
Krayem, who has denied acting with intent, was transferred to Sweden from France to stand trial in Stockholm. The 32-year-old was given a life term for “serious war crimes and terrorist crimes”. The Swedish court was the first to try a person over the infamous killing, exercising its jurisdiction over international law committed abroad.
The killing of al-Kassasbeh was widely condemned, and the trial of Krayem serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by ISIL. The case highlights the importance of international cooperation in bringing perpetrators of terrorism and war crimes to justice.
The sentencing of Krayem to life in prison marks a significant step in holding individuals accountable for their actions in supporting terrorist organizations. As the global community continues to grapple with the challenges posed by terrorism, cases like this demonstrate the need for continued cooperation and determination in pursuing justice for victims of terrorism and their families.