Suspected chemical weapons attack in Syria

The Australian Government condemnsin the strongest possible terms the chemical weapons attack against civilians,including children, at Khan Sheikhoun in Idlib Province, Syria on 4 April 2017.

The use of chemical weapons isillegal and abhorrent.

While the full facts are still to bedetermined, if the Assad regime is responsible for this attack those whoapproved and deployed these weapons must be held accountable.

The use of chemical weapons is inviolation of international law, including the Chemical Weapons Convention andUNSCR 2118. These abuses cannot continue to be committed with impunity.

We welcome and support the UnitedNations' efforts to verify the details of this latest attack. There also needsto be an independent, international investigation into the incident.

Russia and Iran, as countriesengaged in the Syrian conflict, should use their influence to pressure theAssad regime to cease illegal, chemical attacks against its own people. We callon Russia and Iran to take genuine steps to enforce a ceasefire in Syria.

The UN Security Council needs toaddress this situation as soon as possible. We call on the Council to takeaction in response to this attack.

The continuing deaths of civiliansin the Syrian conflict is deplorable. Australia is addressing the conflict inSyria through our military and humanitarian efforts, and through our autonomoussanctions.

We call on all parties to reduce theviolence and engage in UN‑brokered efforts to find a political solution to this terrible conflict.