The Assad Regime Kills 33 Civilians on First Day of Geneva II

Press Statement

Syrian Coalition

Istanbul, Turkey

January 23, 2014

The Assad regime continues to kill and torture civilians in the hope that it can cling to power. Assad himself continues to reject the demands of the Syrian people for him to step down and hand over power to a transitional governing body with full executive powers. The continued crimes and escalation of violence only underscore the regime’s strong determination to thwart efforts to find a political solution.

The Assad regime shelled towns and villages yesterday as its senior leadership sat in front of the international community, claiming to face terrorists. Human rights groups have documented the death of 33 civilians, including 6 children, 11 women, and 3 detainees, who died under torture in Assad’s dungeons.

The strategy of this manipulative regime is now clear; it will use every venue to stall for time to kill more Syrians. The regime will not make any concessions, nor stop dropping explosive barrels on residential areas unless it is forced to do so. Sponsors of and participants in the Geneva II conference, with influence on the regime, must realize this fact and make sure the regime complies with the will of the international community in trying to find a political solution that guarantees a transition is achieved in Syria.

We ask for Mercy for our martyrs, health for our wounded, and freedom for our detainees.

Long live Syria and its people, free and with honor.