EU Blames Syrian Regime for Chemical Attack in Douma

Brussels, MINA – The European Union strongly condemned Sunday the use of chemical weapons in Syria and urged the international community for an immediate response.

Reports from Douma indicate that a high number of civilians were killed yesterday, including families that perished while hiding in shelters, KUNA reported, citing Maja Kocijancic, spokesperson for EU High Representative,in a statement.

“The evidence points towards yet another chemical attack by the regime,” she said, adding “almost a year to the day of the horrific attacks in Khan Sheikhoun; it is a matter of grave concern that chemical weapons continue to be used, especially on civilians.”

In July 2017 and March 2018, the EU imposed additional sanctions on high level officials and scientists responsible for the development and the use of chemical weapons in Syria, it noted.

“It is highly regrettable that Russia vetoed the renewal of the mandate of the Joint Investigative Mechanism in November 2017 and the EU calls upon the UN Security Council to rapidly re-establish this mechanism to identify perpetrators of chemical attacks. Accountability is crucial,” stated the EU statement.

It called on the supporters of the regime, Russia, and Iran to use their influence in order to prevent any further attack and ensure the cessation of hostilities and de-escalation of violence as per UNSC Resolution 2401 (T/RS5/RS1)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)