The Syrian Coalition Condemns the Violence at the Syrian Turkish Border, Tel Abyad Gate

Media Note

Syrian Coalition Media Office

Istanbul, Turkey

May 4, 2013

One Turkish border guard was killed and at least seven were wounded, including two civilians, on Thursday, in a clash at the Akçakale border gate. This gate is opposite Syria's Tel Abyad gate. News outlets reported that the armed groups were unidentified.

While security seems to be rather loose as a result of Assad’s cruel oppressive practices, suspicious groups took advantage of the situation to carry out this assault. It is clear that Assad’s regime has created chaos and is now benefitting from it. This instability brings much suffering and death not only to Syrians, but also to people of neighboring countries.

The Syrian Coalition strongly condemns this assault. We also wish to remind the world that the only one who has an interest in fuelling disorder in the region is Bashar al Assad. The Syrian regime’s officials have repeatedly stated: “the conflict in Syria will burn the region.”

The Syrian Coalition urges FSA fighters to exercise self-restraint, guard the border crossings, and respect the law.

The Turkish government has put forth a great effort to assist Syrian refugees and facilitate hospital admissions for the wounded. We are deeply grateful for this urgent help, and hopeful that the Turkish government will increase its support and provide greater access to adequate living standards for Syrian refugees.

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.