The Latest Developments in Qusair

Media Note

Syrian Coalition

Istanbul, Turkey

June 05, 2013

After 48 hours of intense fighting in Qusair, Assad regime forces, aided by Iranian militias, were able to penetrate the city and seize new neighborhoods. Heroic battles were fought by the Free Syrian Army to defend civilians, however the tremendous gap in the balance of power ended in causing heavy casualties within civilians.

The Syrian Coalition continues its commitment to uphold its defense of civilians by warning that grisly massacres will occur with reprisals against innocent civilians if the international community stands idle and watches. The Syrian Coalition reminds the UN and major nations of the world that they have a responsibility to intervene and to ensure humanitarian access to protect civilians and put a stop to the Assad regime's systematic acts of retaliation. We also hold the Assad regime to its commitment to allow humanitarian access to provide urgent relief to the citizens of Qusair.

The Free Syrian Army commits to carrying on with the fight for freedom and justice, along with those who have been steadfast in confronting oppression and tyranny and who have defended the people of their nation with bravery.

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.