EU urges UN to ‘condemn’ chemical attack in Syria

BRUSSELS

The European Union on Thursday urged the United Nations Security Council to "strongly condemn" a chemical attack in Syria that is blamed on the regime of President Bashar al-Assad.

"The EU condemns in the strongest terms the air strike that hit the town of Khan Sheikhoun in Idlib province on 4 April 2017, which has had horrific consequences, causing the deaths and injuries of scores of civilians including children and relief workers, with many victims displaying symptoms of gas poisoning," according to a declaration that used an alternative spelling for city where the attack occurred.

"The EU urges the United Nations Security Council to come together, strongly condemn the attack on Khan Sheikhoun and ensure a swift, independent and impartial investigation of the attack."

The EU reiterated that the use of chemical weapons or chemical substances as weapons amounts to a war crime. "Their use in Syria, including by the regime and Daesh, must stop and identified perpetrators must be held accountable for this violation of international law,” the statement said.

The attack constitutes a flagrant violation of a cease-fire, according to the EU, that said it underlines the urgent need for a real and verified cease-fire. "The EU calls on Russia, Turkey and Iran to live up to their commitments as guarantors in this regard."

The chemical attack in the northwestern town of Khan Shaykhun reportedly killed more than 100 civilians and injured 500 others, and drew international outrage.