U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Antony Blinken stresses that Washington is committed to a political transition in Syria that would exclude “a brutal dictator” like President Bashar Assad.
“The United States is committed to helping bring about a political transition in Syria that leads to an inclusive government and a future of freedom, dignity and security for the Syrian people,” he said. “Dignity cannot be brought if the current dictator – a man who has gassed and barrel bombed the people of Syria – remains. As Secretary [of State John] Kerry has emphasized, a brutal dictator like Assad has no place in this future.”
Vice president of the Syrian Coalition Hisham Marwa emphasizes that Assad is effectively out of power, and is now leading an armed militia fighting outside the law. “Assad’s survival is unacceptable internationally, as a war criminal involved in crimes against humanity cannot remain a president.” (Source: Syrian Coalition + Agencies)
