UN to investigate use of chemical weapons in Syria

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today said that the world body will investigate the possible use of chemical weapons in an attack in Syria.
The decision follows a request in this regard by the Syrian authorities, Ban told reporters here.
"The investigation mission is to look into the specific incident brought to my attention by the Syrian Government... There are other allegations of similar cases involving the reported use of chemical weapons," he said.
Ban said his senior advisers are working on the modalities in close consultation with the relevant bodies, including the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

These include detailed issues such as: overall mandate, mission composition, and operational conditions including safety and security.
"I have also been in close contact with OPCW Director-General Ahmet Uzumcu and WHO Director-General Margaret Chan. They have both assured me of their full support and cooperation," he said.

Noting that there have been disturbing reports about the possible use of chemical weapons in Syria, Ban said the two-year long conflict has plunged the country into extreme chaos with terrible consequences for the Syrian people.
As the situation worsens, the international community's concern about the safety and security of chemical weapons stockpiles as well as possible use of by all parties has increased, he said.

"I have repeatedly stated that use of chemical weapons by any side under any circumstances would constitute an outrageous crime. Anyone responsible must be held accountable. I have emphasized the primary responsibility of the Syrian Government to ensure the safety and security of any such weapons or materials," Ban said.
Welcoming the decision of the UN chief, US envoy to the UN Susan Rice called on the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons to provide full support to the UN's investigation, including information, expertise and resources.
Rice warned if Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad and those under his command make the mistake of using chemical weapons, or fail to meet their obligation to secure them, then there will be consequences.

"Those responsible will be held accountable," she said.
The US, she said, supports an investigation that pursues any and all credible allegations of the possible use of chemical weapons in Syria, and underscores the importance of launching this investigation as swiftly as possible.
"We demand the full cooperation of the Assad regime in particular, as well as Syrian authorities throughout the country, including by providing full and unfettered access to all relevant individuals and locations," Rice said.