Syrian deputy FM blasts US ‘hostile schemes’
In Italy, Faisal Mekdad says his country complied with UN’s chemical weapons probe, accuses Kerry of hypocrisy
More and more countries are becoming aware of Washington’s “hostile schemes” and disregard for the UN, Syrian Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad said Saturday, speaking shortly before US President Barack Obama’s statement on Syria.
Mekdad, who had met with representatives of the Syrian community in Italy, told reporters US Secretary of State John Kerry did not represent the European viewpoint or even the American one.
He accused Kerry of hypocrisy, saying that during his address on Friday the secretary had intentionally neglected to mention the “destructive” role played by the United States in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya and in supporting Israel using “weapons of mass destruction.”
He said that Bashar Assad’s regime had striven to comply with the UN team investigating the use of chemical weapons in the country.
Mekdad warned a US attack on Syria would be “no picnic,” adding that his country would “remain steadfast” against any such attack and that it would be supported in its resistance by many around the world.
Also Saturday, Italian Premier Enrico Letta said his country understands why the United States and France are considering military action against Syria’s regime, but said Italy cannot do the same without UN backing.
He said Italians are deeply disturbed by images of the alleged chemical weapons attack and the international community is having “difficult moments” trying to decide on an appropriate response to prevent future chemical attacks.
