Movements At Syria’s Chemical Weapons Site Are Disturbing, Say Officials
Western intelligence officials are becoming increasingly concerned over new movements at chemical weapons storage facilities in Syria, the New York Times (NYT) reported on Saturday.
One American official was quoted by the NYT as saying that President Assad’s regime is “doing some things that suggest they intend to use the weapons,” adding, “It’s not just moving stuff around. These are different kind of activities.”
The threat of chemical warfare has been ever-present during the 22 month conflict. Last week, Jordan, which has a border with Syria, was training soldiers from the Czech Republic on how to deal with a potential chemical weapons incident.
Intelligence officials are remaining tight-lipped on what the movements signify but have suggested it could be the regime preparing for one last-ditch effort to beat the rebels.
US defense secretary, Leon Panetta, revealed in October this year that American troops were in neighboring Jordan, assisting with planning for the aftermath of any chemical attack in Syria.
This latest move by Assad’s regime comes a day after internet was restored to Syria. It had been down for two days, with flights in and out of Damascus airport also disrupted.
