A rumor spread by Al-Jadeed News claimed that Colonel Hafiz Makhlouf was permanently removed by his cousin, Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad, of his duties in the General Security Directorate. After inquiring about the rumor, a source stated that this rumor was in fact false and 6 months too late.
Colonel Hafiz Makhlouf was not fired; however, he did resign from his post 6 months ago, citing health issues as his reason. Those close to Maklouf have commented on his deteriorating health and physical limitations that plagued him for almost two years.
Hafiz Makhlouf is the brother of Syrian billionaire, Rami Makhlouf, and the nephew of Dr. Bashar Al-Assad’s mother, Anissa Makhlouf Al-Assad. Hafiz is said to have a great relationship with the Syrian President and his former colleagues.
