Former Syrian officials have made explosive claims regarding Austin Tice, the American journalist who went missing in 2012. Allegations suggest that Syrian President Assad ordered Tice's execution. Recent developments include:

• Assad's Involvement: A former Syrian official claims the order to kill Tice came directly from the top.
• Ongoing Investigations: A Syrian general is currently being questioned about Tice's disappearance.
• Execution Claims: An ex-Syrian commander states that Tice was executed, shaking the foundations of the ongoing search for him.

These revelations raise critical questions about freedom of the press and the dark realities faced by journalists in conflict zones. Here's the full scoop.