The Syrian Coalition Requests an Immediate Investigation into Human Rights Abuses

Media Statement

Syrian Coalition

Istanbul, Turkey

August 4, 2013

The Syrian Coalition urges the UNHCR’s Navi Pillay to immediately begin an investigation into the numerous massacres that have taken place during the holy month of Ramadan in Syria. Assad forces killed over 1700 people in just one month. Amongst the innocent lives lost are over 250 people murdered in the 20 massacres, fully-documented during the month of Ramadan.

According to numerous reports coming from Syria, Assad has violated international humanitarian and human rights laws. He has committed crimes against humanity by using ballistic missiles, toxic gas, fixed-wing aircrafts, and chemical weapons. Moreover, Assad forces have summarily executed civilians, burned them, and targeted towns, villages, schools, hospitals, shelters, and places of worship across Syria.

The Syrian Coalition will issue a detailed report on Wednesday, August 6th, about Assad’s crimes and massacres during the holy month of Ramadan.

The Syrian Coalition confirms the full commitment of the Supreme Military Council to the Geneva Conventions. In cooperation with the Syrian Red Crescent, the Supreme Military Council serves civilians and ensures their safety whenever possible. Most recently, the SMC helped to evacuate the wounded and remove dead bodies after attacks in Khan Al Assal.

The Syrian Coalition reiterates its full commitment to international conventions, emphasizing that those who violate international human rights laws must be brought to justice regardless of whom they might be.

The Syrian Coalition further expresses its readiness to cooperate with all independent organizations to conduct impartial investigations into the war crimes committed across Syria. Perpetrators of such crimes must know that the time will come when they will be held accountable.

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.