John Kerry Condemns Syria’s Chemical Weapons
John Kerry has condemned Syria’s use of chemical weapons. He calls last week’s attack a “moral obscenity.” Kerry explains that further evidence will be released to the public within the next week.
As reported by the Denver Post, Secretary of State John Kerry accuses Syrian President Bashar Assad of destroying evidence of chemical weapon use.
President Assad denies involvement the August 21 chemical attack.
In a statement about the attack, White House officials concluded that the Syrian regime did in fact use chemical weapons against civilians:
“Based on the reported number of victims, reported symptoms of those who were killed or injured, witness accounts, and other facts gathered by open sources, the U.S. intelligence community, and international partners, there is very little doubt at this point that a chemical weapon was used.”
A U.N. team of investigators visited the site of the attack. However, they have not presented their findings.
While visiting the site, unidentified snipers fired shots at the investigators. Assad’s regime denies any involvement, blaming rebels for the shooting.
President Obama is tasked with deciding how to respond. Over the weekend, he discussed the crisis with leaders from France and Great Britain. As Obama continues to seek international support, John Kerry expressed that the attack “should shock the conscience of the world.”
The US Navy deployed four Destroyers to the Mediterranean Sea. The ships are prepared for launching a strike.
John Kerry stated that President Obama would be making an “informed decision” within days.
As reported by USA Today, US officials hoped to avoid military involvement. They are concerned that intervention might turn into a long-term commitment. They are further concerned that if the Syrian regime collapses, rebels may take over.
Leaders in France and Great Britain have expressed interest in cooperating with US efforts — if chemical weapons were used. However, they have not made a commitment at this time.
The U.N has not formerly confirmed the use of chemical weapons. However, John Kerry has stated that his “understanding of what has already happened in Syria” is based on facts.
[Image via Flickr]
