Reports of massive chemical attack near Damascus as UN observers arrive in Syria
Wildly varying reports have emerged of recent chemical weapons use in Syria, with hundreds allegedly killed in the latest attack. This comes on the same day that the UN inspectors arrive in Damascus to investigate allegations of use of toxic arms. ● The casualty figures range from dozens to almost 1,200 deaths. Initially, Al-Arabiya posted news of 280 victims on Twitter. Later, the news outlet upgraded the figure up to 1,188 victims quoting the Free Syrian Army. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights had a much lower figure, claiming dozens of people were killed, including children. News agencies such as Reuters and AP mostly put the numbers of victims at hundreds, but say that reports can't be independently verified. Meanwhile, an RT Arabic correspondent managed to contact some locals who say they haven't witnessed any “poisonous attack” in the area. However, they point out that gunfire can be heard. Syrian authorities issued a statement saying there is “no truth whatsoever” to reports of chemical weapons use near Damascus. The incident reportedly took place in Ghouta, on the green agricultural belt territory surrounding the Syrian capital.
Mike Rivero ● Does anyone really think that Assad is stupid enough to hit civilians (especially children) with chemical weapons just 5 blocks from where the UN chemical weapons inspection team was staying, knowing that such a chemical weapon attack would be all the justification the United States needed for a direct military invasion, to reverse Assad's near-victory over the hired mercenary army? Remember, leaked emails earlier in the year confirmed that the Obama administration authorized a plan to deploy chemical weapons against the Syrian people for the express purpose of framing Assad, and US-made chemical weapons were given to the hired mercenaries by Turkey.
21st Century Wire: Media hypes latest ‘chemical’ attack in Syria but evidence does not add up
SANA: Foreign and Expatriates Ministry: Allegations of Armed Forces using toxic gas false and untrue
SANA: Media source: Reports on chemical weapons use in Ghouta untrue
PressTV: Syrian army denies allegations of chemical weapons use against militants - VIDEO
The Guardian: Syria conflict: chemical weapons blamed as hundreds reported killed
Reuters: Activists say more than 200 killed in gas attack near Damascus
AP/Big Story: Syrian activists claim deadly 'toxic gas' attack
RIA Novosti: UK to Raise Syria Chemical Weapons Claim at UN