In today's world, Ali Habib Mahmud is a topic that has gained unprecedented relevance. For decades, Ali Habib Mahmud has been the object of study and interest by academics, experts and professionals from various areas. Its impact has been felt in society, culture, politics and the economy, generating endless debates and reflections around its implications. In this article, we will explore the different facets of Ali Habib Mahmud, analyzing its evolution over time, its current challenges and possible future prospects. In addition, we will closely examine the different approaches and opinions that exist about Ali Habib Mahmud, with the purpose of providing a complete and objective overview of this topic that is so relevant today.
Ali Habib Mahmud | |
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علي حبيب محمود | |
10th Minister of Defense | |
In office 3 June 2009 – 8 August 2011 | |
President | Bashar al-Assad |
Prime Minister | Mohammad Najji Outri Adel Safar |
Preceded by | Hasan Turkmani |
Succeeded by | Dawoud Rajiha |
19th Chief of Staff of the Syrian Army | |
In office 12 May 2004 – 3 June 2009 | |
President | Bashar al-Assad |
Preceded by | Hasan Turkmani |
Succeeded by | Dawoud Rajiha |
Personal details | |
Born | Tartus, First Syrian Republic | 1 January 1939
Died | 20 March 2020 Damascus, Syria | (aged 81)
Political party | Syrian Regional Branch of the Arab Socialist Ba'ath Party |
Military service | |
Allegiance | Syria |
Branch/service | Syrian Army |
Years of service | 1959–2011 |
Rank | Colonel General |
Commands | 1st Armoured Division 7th Mechanized Division |
Battles/wars | |
Ali Habib Mahmud (Arabic: علي حبيب محمود; 1 January 1939 – 20 March 2020) was a Syrian military officer who served as Syria's minister of defense from June 2009 to August 2011. As one of Syria's most celebrated generals, he was part of President Bashar al-Assad's inner circle.
Mahmud was born into an Alawite family on 1 January 1939 in Tartus and joined the army in 1959. In 1962, he graduated from the military academy.
Mahmud fought in Yom Kippur War against Israel. As a commander of the 1st Division, he also led forces against Israeli troops invading Lebanon in 1982, including the Battle of Sultan Yacoub. He commanded 7th mechanized infantry in 1985. In 1986, Mahmud became a general. He also participated in the Gulf War as part of the international coalition that liberated Kuwait from Saddam Hussein's Iraq in 1991. In 1994, he was appointed commander of the special forces. In 1998, he was promoted to the rank of major general. He was appointed deputy chief of staff in 2002. On 12 May 2004, he was appointed chief of general staff of the Syrian army and the armed forces. He replaced Hasan Turkmani, who was appointed defense minister. In addition, Mahmud was a member of the Baath Party.
On 3 June 2009, President Bashar Assad appointed Mahmud as defense minister, replacing again Hasan Turkmani. Mahmud's term ended on 8 August 2011, and he was replaced by Dawoud Rajha in the post.
On 4 September 2013, the opposition wrongly claimed that Mahmud had defected and escaped to Turkey. In fact, he remained in Syria.
In May 2011, the United States accused Habib of human rights abuses, and announced a travel ban and asset freeze.
On 20 March 2020, Mahmud died in Al Assad University Hospital, Damascus.