Are those killed in Syria martyrs (shaheeds)?

Answer

Although we believe that the anarchy in Syria is not a valid Jihad, we do hope and make dua that those who are slain attain the rank of Shahaadat if they were motivated solely by Ikhlaas (sincerity). Allah Ta'ala will judge His servants in terms of the Aql He had bestowed to them. The youngsters who fled from home without parental consent are generally stupid. We therefore hope and supplicate to Allah Ta'ala to grant them the status of the Shuhada. But no one can claim with certitude that they have attained shahaadat. Allah knows best.