Cliche has it that behind every great man stands a woman—and as it happens, the same also applies to murderous dictators.

She was once fawned over for her good looks and sharp mind, but is now seen as an accomplice to her husband’s cruelty. Claudia Cockerell on the fall of Syria’s first lady ...

Assad, is battling aggressive leukaemia and has a 50/50 chance of survival. She is reportedly seeking to return to the UK ...