Media Statement

Syrian Coalition

Istanbul, Turkey

Augusts 26, 2013

The Syrian Coalition, the leadership of the Supreme Military Council and Free Syrian Army commanders on the ground condemn in the strongest possible terms the targeting of UN inspectors by pro-Assad "Popular Committee" militias.

The UN convoy was shot at by snipers near the entrance of Muadamiyat Al Sham, an area under the control of regime forces. The attack was an attempt by Assad’s regime to intimidate the UN team and prevent it from discovering the truth about Assad’s chemical weapons attacks against civilians.

Free Syrian Army officers present in the district of Muadamiya told the coalition that snipers from the militia opened fire on UN inspectors.

The UN convoy came under attack near the final checkpoint between rebel and regime controlled areas. The checkpoint is located on Arbaeen Road. The regime and FSA had agreed a ceasefire to allow the inspectors to cross, however regime militias are known for their lack of discipline.

We reiterate our commitment to ensuring the safety of the UN team, facilitating its work, and providing it with all necessary assistance in liberated areas in Damascus, the countryside of Damascus, and throughout Syria.

The UN inspectors have reached Muadamiya in western Gouta to conduct their investigating, in full cooperation with activists in the city. Fighting battalions in the area are providing protection for the team, and they have expressed their readiness and commitment to making sure the team returns safely after conducting the investigation.