Obama blasts regimes in Iran, Syria

WASHINGTON, Sept. 21 (KUNA) -- In Iran, the government refuses to recognize the rights of its own people, while in Syria, men, women and children are being tortured, detained and murdered by the Assad regime, President Barack Obama said on Wednesday in an address to the UN General Assembly.

"Thousands have been killed, many during the holy time of Ramadan," Obama said. "Thousands more have poured across Syria's borders. The Syrian people have shown dignity and courage in their pursuit of justice -- protesting peacefully, standing silently in the streets, dying for the same values that this institution is supposed to stand for. The question for us is clear: Will we stand with the Syrian people, or with their oppressors?" Already, the United States has imposed strong sanctions on Syria's leaders, he said.

"We have supported a transfer of power that is responsive to the Syrian people," the President said. "Many of our allies have joined us in this effort. But for the sake of Syria, and the peace and security of the world, we must speak with one voice. There is no excuse for inaction. Now is the time for the United Nations Security Council to sanction the Syrian regime, and to stand with the Syrian people." Throughout the region, the United Nations will have to respond to the calls for change, Obama said. "In Yemen, men, women and children gather by the thousands in towns and city squares every day with the hope that their determination and spilled blood will prevail over a corrupt system," he said. "America supports their aspirations. We must work with Yemen's neighbors and our partners around the world to seek a path that allows for a peaceful transition of power from President Saleh, and a movement to free and fair elections as soon as possible.

" In Bahrain, steps have been taken toward reform and accountability, but more are required, Obama said.

"America is a close friend of Bahrain, and we will continue to call on the government and the main opposition bloc -- the Wifaq - to pursue a meaningful dialogue that brings peaceful change that is responsive to the people," he said." And we believe the patriotism that binds Bahrainis together must be more powerful than the sectarian forces that would tear them apart." Each nation must chart its own course to fulfill the aspirations of its people, and America does not expect to agree with every party or person who expresses themselves politically, Obama said.

"But we will always stand up for the universal rights that were embraced by this Assembly," he added. "Those rights depend upon elections that are free and fair; governance that is transparent and accountable; respect for the rights of women and minorities; and justice that is equal and fair. That is what our people deserve. Those are elements of a peace that lasts." Moreover, the United States will continue to support those nations that transition to democracy -- with greater trade and investment, so that freedom is followed by opportunity, the President said.

"We will pursue a deeper engagement with governments, but also civil society -- students and entrepreneurs; political parties and the press," he said. "We have banned those who abuse human rights from traveling to our country, and sanctioned those who trample on human rights abroad. And we will always serve as a voice for those who have been silenced." (end) rm.ajs KUNA 211823 Sep 11NNNN