Obama applauds Syria suspension by Arab League

President Obama applauded the Arab League's decision today to suspend Syria and consider sanctions against Bashar al-Assad's government because of violence against its people.

"These significant steps expose the increasing diplomatic isolation of a regime that has systematically violated human rights and repressed peaceful protests," Obama said.

The Associated Press reported that the Arab League voted "to suspend Syria in four days and warned the regime could face sanctions if it does not end its bloody crackdown against anti-government protesters. The decision was a symbolic blow to a nation that prides itself on being a powerhouse of Arab nationalism."

"Qatar's Foreign Minister Hamad bin Jassim said 18 countries agreed to the suspension, which was scheduled to take effect on Wednesday in a significant escalation of international pressure on President Bashar Assad's government," the AP said. "Syria, Lebanon and Yemen voted against it, and Iraq abstained."

Obama's statement:

I applaud the important decisions taken by the Arab League today, including the suspension of Syria's membership, consideration of economic sanctions, and downgrading of diplomatic relations.

After the Assad regime flagrantly failed to keep its commitments, the Arab League has demonstrated leadership in its effort to end the crisis and hold the Syrian government accountable.

These significant steps expose the increasing diplomatic isolation of a regime that has systematically violated human rights and repressed peaceful protests.

The United States joins with the Arab League in its support for the Syrian people, who continue to demand their universal rights in the face of the regime's callous violence.

We will continue to work with our friends and allies to pressure the Assad regime and support the Syrian people as they pursue the dignity and transition to democracy that they deserve.

Source: USA Today