Ellison Statement on Embassy Attack in Syria

Statement

"The attack on the U.S. embassy in Damascus, Syria yesterday was deeply troubling. Violence in any form is unacceptable, but what concerns me most is the alleged involvement of the Syrian regime.

"It has been widely reported that Bashar Al-Assad's government helped incite the violent demonstration at the U.S. embassy and was slow to respond when embassy officials requested help. This is a clear violation of the internationally recognized diplomatic standards that countries are expected to uphold.

"I am also concerned by reports that Syrian diplomats are spying on Syrian Americans who support the democracy movement. This is wholly unacceptable. Any attempt to intimidate Americans or deny their rights to free speech will not be tolerated. I have personally communicated this message to the Syrian ambassador to the United States.

"After the attack yesterday Secretary Clinton said that the Syrian regime has lost its legitimacy to govern. I agree."

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