France launches probe into Assad

France is investigating Bashar al-Assad over alleged crimes against humanity, the Paris prosecutor’s office said, launching a case that highlights divisions among major powers over relations with the Syrian leader.

The investigation, which is also examining claims of torture and kidnapping by Assad’s forces, was opened “on the basis of indications received from the foreign ministry” on September 10, an official said.

An estimated 250,000 people have been killed in Syria’s four-year civil war between Assad’s troops, rebel groups, and IS militants, and 11m displaced.