Mohamed Abrini spoke regarding the ongoing conflict between the West and the East, stating that history repeats itself and innocent people bear the consequences of decisions made by those in power. He expressed his disagreement with the way conflicts are fought, as even in war there are rules that should be followed. At the trial for the attacks in Brussels, Salah Abdeslam admitted to his responsibility and expressed the need to move forward and prevent similar tragedies from happening once more. Abrini, on the other hand, stated that his future is uncertain and that being imprisoned for any length of time will not bring back the lives lost. He offered his apologies to the victims and their loved ones. The defendants also mentioned their time in Syria and how the bombings there have killed more civilians in the East than the attacks in the West.
“For me it’s always war between the West and the East. History repeats itself. People make decisions and innocent people suffer the consequences,” said Mohamed Abrini. “I see one war following another and deaths. Since September 11, 2001, it has only gotten worse. Since the dawn of time, man has been a wolf to man, but even in war he there are rules and I don’t agree with this way of doing things (attacks, editor’s note).
“I have a great deal of responsibility, I must assume it, added the accused. “I cannot go back, even if I would like. As I said, there are a lot of people missing in this box and I’m not just talking regarding the street but also people in suits and ties. Now, the past is dead and we have to see what needs to be done so that it doesn’t happen once more. There are a lot of things to do, to think regarding.”
On his future, Mohamed Abrini affirmed to live from day to day. “For me, if I do 10, 20, 50 years in prison, it won’t change anything, it won’t bring back the dead. I have to wait. I have one last word, it’s worth what it’s worth, but I present my apologies to the victims and their loved ones.”
“These bombs killed more civilians in the East than the attacks in the West”: the defendants evoke their passage in Syria at the trial of the attacks
The words of Mohamed Abrini and Salah Abdeslam offer a sobering reminder of the human toll of terrorism and the cyclical nature of violence. As they are held accountable for their actions, it is important to not only honor the memories of the innocent lives lost but also to work towards a future where such atrocities do not occur once more. It is a difficult and complex task, but one that is necessary for the sake of humanity. Let us strive towards a world where peace and understanding prevail over war and hatred.