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Obama Warns Syria Against Use Of Chemical Weapons

Elizabeth Johnson |
December 3, 2012 | 3:18 p.m. PST

Executive Producer

Obama condemns Syria's use of chemical weapons in a speech Monday. (Neon Tommy/Screenshot)
Obama condemns Syria's use of chemical weapons in a speech Monday. (Neon Tommy/Screenshot)
President Obama warned Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in a speech Monday that “there will be consequences” should the Syrian regime use chemical weaponry against the country’s opposition forces, BBC reports.

“I want to make it absolutely clear to Assad and those under his command, the world is watching,” Obama said while speaking about nuclear non-proliferation at the National Defense University in Fort McNair. 

“The use of chemical weapons is and would be totally unacceptable. And if you make the tragic mistake of using these weapons, there will be consequences and you will be held accountable.”

READ MORE: U.S. Considers Risk In Mediating Syria Conflict

Syrian officials remain adamant that such weapons would never, under any circumstances be used against its people, “if such weapons exist.” But U.S. officials speaking under anonymity said that Assad’s regime has shown signs that it has and will continue to develop chemical weapons. It is believed that Syria is holding significant stockpiles of mustard gas and sarin – a highly toxic nerve agent – at sites throughout the nation.

“We simply cannot allow the 21st century to be darkened by the worst weapons of the 20th century,” Obama continued. Though the White House is reticent to pursue direct military intervention, officials have said the administration is preparing contingency plans should the threat of chemical warfare become more imminent. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton also confirmed earlier Monday that the government would act quickly in such a case.

READ MORE: White House Considers Stronger Force Against Assad 

"This is a red line for the United States," said Clinton (video below), who declined to provide specifics regarding the administration's plans. "Suffice it to say we are certainly planning to take action."

As heavy fighting between rebels and al-Assad's regime continued Monday, the United Nations ordered all non-essential international staff to leave Syria due to rising violence. An estimated 25 of 100 workers are expected to evacuate.

“The situation is significantly changing,” said Sabir Mughal, the UN’s chief security advisor in Syria. “There is an increased risk for humanitarians as a result of indiscriminate shooting or clashes between the parties.”

The UN said that the withdrawal of staff will slow down the delivery of aid but won’t alter the amount of aid dramatically. The European Union will also reduce activities in the Syrian capital, where it has a diplomatic office.

Read more Neon Tommy coverage of the Syria conflict here.
Reach Executive Producer Elizabeth Johnson here. Follow her on Twitter here.



 

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