National Coalition of Syrian Revolution and Opposition Forces Condemns Chemical Attacks on Syrian People

Cairo, Egypt, March 20, 2013 – The Assad regime's crimes against the Syrian people continue. The latest attacks occurred today, March 19th 2013, in two locations: Khan Asal in Aleppo and Ataybah, in rural Damascus. The attacks killed at least nineteen civilians and injured and suffocated at least 69 others, who are currently in critical condition.

The Syrian Coalition condemns these attacks and holds the Assad regime fully responsible for shedding Syrian blood. The Coalition demands a full international investigation, and asks for a delegation to be sent to inquire and visit the site. The Coalition would like all parties and individuals involved in this reprehensible crime to be brought to justice, in addition to investigating all the other crimes that have been inflicted on the Syrian people.

Chemical warfare is internationally prohibited. Its use against any enemy is banned, however all evidence now indicates that the Assad regime is using these weapons against its own people. Testimonies and images from the attacks today demonstrate that these banned weapons have been used in what amounts to a crime against humanity.

The Syrian Coalition calls on international organizations to send a specialized investigative delegation to review the actual details of the incident. The Interim Government stresses its willingness to receive this delegation on the Syrian territories, and ensure secure and safe passage to the effected sites. They will provide investigators with the opportunity for a full ground investigation, in order to determine those responsible for the crimes and bring them to justice.

The Syrian Coalition calls on the international community to bear legal, political, and humanitarian responsibility on behalf of the Syrian people, given that the use of chemical weapons requires a serious response, and concrete steps. The international community must take responsibility in putting an end to crimes of the Assad regime and supporting the aspirations of the Syrian people for freedom, justice and dignity.

We ask God to have mercy on our martyrs, healing for wounded, and freedom for our prisoners.

Long live Syria and its people free and with honor.