Norway condemns brutal killings in Syria

The massacre in Houla last Friday is a gross violation of international law, relevant Security Council resolutions and Joint Special Envoy Kofi Annan’s six-point plan.   

“Those responsible for these killings must be held accountable and brought to justice. The Syrian authorities have a particular responsibility for ensuring that this happens,” said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.  

“I am deeply shocked by the massacre. The situation in Syria is extremely serious. Incidents such as this could lead to Syria descending into full-scale civil war,” said Mr Støre. 

The United Nations Supervision Mission in Syria (UNSMIS) has placed part of the responsibility on the Syrian authorities. Norway fully supports the Security Council’s unanimous statement, issued yesterday, which condemns the attacks on the civilian population in Houla in the strongest possible terms.  

“The Security Council has rightly decided to investigate the massacre in Houla. I expect this work to begin immediately. The brutal violence in Hama yesterday, where it is reported that a further 30 civilians have been killed, should also be looked into,” said Mr Støre. 

Joint Special Envoy for the UN and the League of Arab States Kofi Annan is in Damascus this week to discuss possibilities for a political solution to the crisis.  

“Norway is deeply concerned about developments in Syria and about the security of UN personnel in the country, who are playing a vital role on the ground. It is crucial that the world community now supports Annan’s peace plan, which is the only credible initiative towards a political solution in Syria,” said Mr Støre.