Canada strongly condemns increasing violence in northwestern Syria

Statement

---------

May 24, 2019 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

Global Affairs Canada today issued the following statement:

“Canada is deeply concerned by the continuing violence in northwestern Syria, which has had a terrible impact on the civilian population in the area. Over the last weeks, more than 220 civilians have been killed and 300,000 people have been displaced.

“The deliberate targeting of civilians, medical facilities, hospitals, schools, first responders and humanitarian workers by the Assad regime and its allies is appalling and violates international humanitarian law. ‎Reports that chlorine may have been used as a weapon on May 19 are extremely troubling.

“Canada calls on all parties to abide by their commitments to de-escalate the violence in Idlib, adhere to their human rights obligations, and allow for full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access.”