White House Says Syria May Be Preparing Chemical Attack

The White House on Monday said there are indications that Syria’s military is preparing for a chemical attack, and warned that nation’s President Bashar al-Assad that if such an attack is committed then there will be a “heavy price” to pay.

“The United States has identified potential preparations for another chemical weapons attack by the Assad regime that would likely result in the mass murder of civilians, including innocent children. The activities are similar to preparations the regime made before its April 4, 2017 chemical weapons attack,” said White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer in a statement.

“As we have previously stated, the United States is in Syria to eliminate the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria,” Spicer said, adding that, “If, however, Mr. Assad conducts another mass murder attack using chemical weapons, he and his military will pay a heavy price.”

The White House did not provide further information regarding the alleged potential attack.