EU HR Ashton shocked by latest reports from Syria

"I am shocked at the latest reports from Syria that large numbers of civilians have again been killed in a totally unjustified assault by Syrian security forces on the town of Hama, using tanks and other heavy weapons against citizens exercising their right to peaceful protest.

This attack and the continuing crackdown in other Syrian cities is even more unacceptable coming on the eve of the holy month of Ramadan.

The Syrian army and security forces have the duty to protect citizens, not to massacre them indiscriminately.  Those responsible for these attacks must be held accountable and brought to justice.

These latest developments once again show the hollowness of the promises of reform made by the government. The only way out of this crisis is through a genuine inclusive national dialogue with the opposition."

| Arriba |

• Syria: EU adopts additional restrictive measures (23/8/2011)
• EU Statement on EU action following the escalation of violent repression in Syria (18/8/2011)
• EU HR Ashton welcomes UN Security Council Presidential Statement on Syria (4/8/2011)
• Syria: Statement by EU HR Ashton on the extension of restrictive measures against individuals responsible for and associated with repression (1/8/2011)
• EU Council conclusions on Syria (18/7/2011)
• Statement by EU HR Ashton on the situation in Syria (8/7/2011)
• EU Parliament pushes for UN resolution on Syria and a refugee corridor (7/7/2011)
• EU Council conclusions on Syria (20/6/2011)