Following West Hartford Forum, Larson Calls for International Response to Syria

U.S. Rep. John B. Larson announced today that he plans to introduce a resolution in Congress urging the international community to act collectively in response to the use of chemical weapons in Syria.

Larson, who represents the 1st Congressional District, which includes West Hartford, sent a letter to fellow Congressional leaders asking his colleagues “to bring the United States’ case to the United Nations Security Council in order to pursue the most effective international course of action,” according to a press release.

“The horrific attacks in Syria were a violation of human decency that deserve the attention of every nation,” Larson said in the release. “This week, I joined many others in applauding the President for bringing his case for military action before Congress, giving us time to refine our intelligence and hear the opinions of the American people. At a recent forum on Syria in West Hartford, many expressed their concerns over the United States entering another conflict with memories of the Iraq debacle fresh in their minds. Despite their apprehension, many also agreed it would be a mistake to do nothing in the face of such a vile atrocity.

“In light of the responses from my constituents, and the evidence presented to me from the administration, I believe the United States must exhaust all international avenues as Congress begins its debate. Our nation must act in concert with our international partners, nearly all of whom signed agreements prohibiting the use of chemical weapons. We must bring our case to the United Nations Security Council to help garner international support, in spite of the abhorrent obstructionism shown by Russia.

“That is why I plan to introduce a resolution in Congress in support of a collaborative, global response to these attacks. While it is clear that those responsible for the use of chemical weapons must be held accountable for their actions, I stand with many Americans in Connecticut and across the country who understand that ultimately our strength will come from an international response.”