Dear Dr Godlee,

As you point out it is disturbing that the leader of the current Syrian regime has a medical professional background. Former trainees of Moorfields Eye Hospital have throughout its history reached prominent positions around the world, but none have become known as tyrants and President Assad is not among them. But at whatever institution in the United Kingdom he trained it is doubtful that any colleague could have foreseen the murderous campaigns for which he is ultimately responsible.

Frank Larkin
Chairman, Medical Committee
Moorfields Eye Hospital

Competing interests: None declared