I see. Yea that makes sense, thanks.

I figured they were just okay giving out the free advertising to one of their own. But stolen also makes sense.

Honestly someone should just look up the photographer, email him and politely ask him if he was paid or not.

edit: Likely case: They asked him for it and he happily donated it, so long as they kept the watermark, and they were totally cool with that.

Right, but free advertising in every Syrian passport will help his business, which will make money, which can buy food, which is edible.

Giving the photographer the credit for his work is a win-win for everyone involved.

edit: Ooooh do you think the watermark means they stole it and never paid him? I didn't consider that possibility.

Have you try boiling it before eating it

Very true.