UN warns of possible civil war in Syria
The United Nations top human rights official called yesterday for international action to protect Syria's civilians, saying its "ruthless repression" of anti-government protesters could drive the country into full-blown civil war.
The death toll in the crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrations that began in March against President Bashar al-Assad now exceeds 3,000, including at least 187 children, said U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay.
At least 100 people had been killed in the last 10 days alone.
"The onus is on all members of the international community to take protective action in a collective manner, before the continual ruthless repression and killings drive the country into a full-blown civil war," Pillay, a former U.N. war crimes judge, said in a statement.
"As more members of the military refuse to attack civilians and change sides, the crisis is already showing worrying signs of descending into an armed struggle," she added.
The United States and Europe have imposed a sanctions on Syrian oil exports and several businesses, and pushed -- so far in vain -- for U.N. sanctions.
Thousands had been injured and arrested by Syrian forces, including many tortured in custody, Pillay said. "Family members inside and outside the country have been targeted for harassment, intimidation, threats and beatings."
Syria blames the violence on foreign-backed armed groups who it says have killed 1,100 people. Authorities have barred most foreign media, making it difficult to verify accounts by activists and officials.
Comments