Statement on Chemical Weapons Attack in Syria

Today, Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement:

"The recent reports from Syria of another major chemical weapons attack against civilians, this time in Douma, represent yet one more war crime committed by Bashar al-Assad and his regime. Assad must be held to account and the world must clearly demonstrate that chemical weapons are unacceptable anytime, anywhere, and in any context.

"It is imperative for the United States to urgently work with our international allies to change the calculus of the Assad regime, and its Russian and Iranian benefactors, to end the massacre and displacement of the Syrian civilian population. However, the American response to this attack, and the Assad regime's other crimes, must be part of a comprehensive Syria strategy to hold the Assad regime accountable and prevent Iran and Russia from gaining a permanent foothold in the region.

"U.S. engagement and leadership is critical, and I am troubled by President Trump's contradictory words and actions. The lack of consistency and clarity sends confusing signals about the U.S. commitment to a peaceful and stable Syria. Rather, these mixed messages embolden Assad, as well as Iran and Russia, to act without restraint or fear of repercussion."