Sir: The Syrian crisis has become more complex after the use of chemical weapons against innocent civilians. The Syrian government has accused the rebel groups as being behind this act. People from every walk of life have condemned this act irrespective of who is responsible for it because it is a crime against humanity. People started looking towards the UN for a peaceful resolution to the issue but, like in the past, the UN presents itself as a useless organisation with regards to such a situation. As a result, the ‘champions’ of democracy have decided upon a military strike against Syria, which has been delayed because Britain showed its reluctance, wanting more evidence on the reality behind the chemical weapons attack. The Syrian government has denied any involvement and has blamed insurgent groups for this inhumanity.
The decision by the Britain government was sensible; we have witnessed far too many massacres in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, imposed by the US on the excuse of weapons of mass destruction. However, President Obama has given a clear signal for military strike against Syria in order to safeguard the US’ own interests as well as those of its allies, Israel, Turkey and Jordan. At the same time, the superpower has asked for approval from congress, which can defer action for some time as the US wants to legitimise these attacks. Will this bring peace to Syria? Invasion by international forces will make the situation more convoluted but, on the other hand, the Syrian government should allow UN representatives to visit and see the proofs they possess against the insurgent groups for being behind the crisis.
SOBIA AMIR
Islamabad