Massacre in Ras Al-Nabi is an Act of Ethnic Cleansing

Media Note

Syrian Coalition Media Office

Istanbul, Turkey

May 4, 2013

The Syrian Coalition strongly condemns the field executions carried out by the regime forces against the civilians of Ras Al-Nabi, in the city of Banias. This massacre, which claimed the lives of 22 people, including 8 children and 4 women, occurred only two days after the Bayda massacre. The frequency of these criminal operations is raising concerns for the safety of the neighboring villages, including the village of Basateen Islam.

The consistent killings in the coastal villages is a gradual attempt to ethnically cleanse these areas, similar to operations carried out by the Serbs against Bosnians two decades ago. Additionally, reports confirm that regime forces are warning residents to flee through loud speakers mounted on cars circling various villages. The neighborhoods of Banyaas are witnessing a large-scale exodus towards the city of Tartous. This is only happening after many people witnessed the sectarian massacre of their children, women and elderly. Reports state that those who attempted to flee were stopped at the entrances of Tartous; many were arrested, and others had their documents confiscated.

These massacres are occurring in multi-ethnic areas, which have participated in the revolution from the beginning. This suggests that the Assad regime is collectively trying to displace a specific sect, which amounts to crimes of ethnic cleansing according to International Law. Article 2 of The Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, adopted as a General Assembly Resolution 260 by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, and enforced in 1951, was ratified by Syria, and applies to this crime.

We ask the UN to issue a binding resolution that strongly condemns these massacres by the regime, and acknowledging them as acts of genocide. The Security Council must also take immediate, urgent intervention in order to protect international security and peace. Additionally, we ask that these crimes be referred to the International Criminal Court, in order to prosecute all individuals responsible and involved.

We ask for mercy for our martyrs, health for our wounded, and freedom for our prisoners.

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