Arab League to Syria: Let Observers in or Face Sanctions

Posted November 24th, 2011 at 12:10 pm (UTC-5)
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Arab League foreign ministers have given Syria until Friday to sign an agreement allowing observers into the country.

League officials said Thursday representatives will meet again on Saturday to discuss sanctions if Damascus refuses to comply with their demand.

The regional group is considering further measures if Syria's government continues its bloody crackdown against anti-government protesters.

The Arab League suspended Syria's membership two weeks ago, angered that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad failed to fulfill a pledge to bring an end to the violence and pull Syrian forces out of major cities.

French Foreign Minister Alain Juppe has suggested that the international community create what he called a humanitarian corridor in Syria, sending in international monitors to ensure the safety of civilians.

Juppe said he would seek Arab League support for the measure and also discuss it with the United States and international partners at the United Nations.

The United Nations says at least 3,500 people have been killed in connection with the Syrian revolt since March. Syria blames much of the violence on foreign-backed terrorists and religious extremists.

Neighboring Israel's Vice Prime Minister Moshe Yaalon said Thursday the situation in Syria is “irreversible,” adding that Mr. Assad seems to be approaching his end as Syria's leader.