Overview
- Defense attorneys argued the brothers did not kill 18-year-old Ryan Al Najjar and portrayed their father, Khaled, as a domineering figure who acted alone.
- Prosecutors say the killing was motivated by perceived dishonor linked to a TikTok video and other “Western” behavior, and they have sought 20-year sentences for each brother and 25 years for the father.
- Forensic evidence presented includes Khaled’s DNA under Ryan’s fingernails, and investigators told the court all three suspects were present at the scene.
- Prosecutors cite intercepted messages indicating the brothers helped lure Ryan to a remote location, while Khaled has emailed Dutch media claiming sole responsibility.
- Khaled is believed to be in northern Syria and will be tried in absentia, Dutch officials report no current legal cooperation with Syria, and a verdict is scheduled for January 5, 2026.