[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 157 (2011), Part 9]
[House]
[Page 12184]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       ONGOING VIOLENCE IN SYRIA

  (Mr. PETERS asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. PETERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to strongly condemn the Syrian 
regime's recent hostility towards both the United States and the Syrian 
people. The courageous visit by U.S. Ambassador Robert Ford to Hama, 
the site of massive antiregime protests, demonstrates that the United 
States stands by those who advocate for democracy and freedom.
  Days after Ford's visit, the American Embassy in Damascus endured 
several violent pro-regime demonstrations, resulting in considerable 
damage. Had the Syrian security forces acknowledged their international 
obligations, these rioters in support of President Assad would not have 
been able to approach the embassy. By responding poorly, Assad has 
conveyed disrespect towards the United States.
  I applaud Secretary of State Clinton's recent tough stance toward 
Assad, declaring that his regime ``has lost legitimacy.''
  Time and time again, Assad, like his father before him, has turned to 
arresting, torturing, and killing anyone who would stand in the way of 
his tyranny. Therefore, with the best interests of the Syrian people in 
mind, I call on President Assad to resign as President.

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