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Investigating Chemical Weapons Use in Syria

(Washington Institute for Near East Policy) Michael Eisenstadt - Past claims of chemical weapons use that proved wrong, coupled with the post-September 11 intelligence failures regarding weapons of mass destruction in Iraq, have led the Obama administration to insist on a high standard of proof for Syria. As long as Damascus refuses to let the UN investigate all allegations, and as long as Russia provides the regime with political cover at the Security Council, it may be impossible for Washington to meet that standard or act within the UN framework if sufficient proof comes to light. However, not responding until definitive proof of CW use is in hand will make the regime more likely to employ such weapons on a wider scale. The writer directs The Washington Institute's Military and Security Studies Program.
2013-04-30 00:00:00
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