The personal challenges of public figures often reveal a human vulnerability behind the power and status they hold.
Such is the case with Asma al-Assad, wife of former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, who is reportedly gravely ill with leukemia.
Her battle has cast a shadow over her life as she remains isolated for treatment in Moscow, according to Ziare.
Reports from The Telegraph, citing sources close to her family, describe Asma’s condition as acute myeloid leukemia — a fast-progressing cancer of the bone marrow and blood.
Far More Agressive
Her chances of survival are said to be precarious, estimated at 50/50 by her medical team.
These circumstances have led to stringent isolation to protect her from potential infections, further separating her from others, including her immediate family.
Asma al-Assad, now 49, has faced cancer before. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018 and declared herself cancer-free in 2019 after a year-long treatment regimen.
However, the current leukemia diagnosis, which appears to have emerged after a period of remission, is reportedly far more aggressive.
Her father, Fawaz Ahras, a respected cardiologist based in London, has been at her side during this difficult period.
According to sources, he has cared for her first in the United Arab Emirates and now in Moscow. Described as heartbroken, he continues to support his daughter during her treatment.
The Assad family's move to Moscow follows Bashar al-Assad’s loss of power after 13 years of brutal civil war in Syria.
The couple reportedly sought asylum in Russia, where the Kremlin facilitated their safety after the regime’s fall.
Speculation has grown around the Assads’ strained personal lives.
Reports indicate that Asma has expressed frustration with her restricted life in Moscow, and some sources suggest she may seek treatment in London. However, the Kremlin has denied rumors of marital discord or divorce.
