Breaking: French Proof of Chemical Attack, Empty Russian Harbors

According to satellite images provided by an Israeli company, most Russian ships stationed in the Mediterranean harbor of Tartus, Syria, have left the city. It is thought to be a response by the Russia military to the potential escalation of the Syrian civil war as Western allies, under the leadership of the US, announce planned strikes. The ships in question are supply vessels, two patrol boats, and one rescue boat. The photo dating from April 11 only includes one u-boat, while the remaining part of the harbor is empty.

Russian delegate Vladimir Schamanow told Russian media agency Interfax that the situation is a usual move when attacks are imminent.

After Trump's tweet, experts analyzed the origin of his reaction. Apparently, it was to a statement by the Russian ambassador to Lebanon Alexander Zasypkin, who stated that Russian military would intercept all US missiles. His statement was made in regard to Russian military personnel being under threat by the US in Syria, which many press agencies have missed.

At the same time, Iran reiterated its commitment to defend the legitimate Assad regime. The statement comes after Ali Akbar Velayati, a top foreign policy aide to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, met with Syrian officials in eastern Ghouta earlier in the week. He has also denied the involvement of the Syrian government in the alleged chemical attack in Douma.

The UK called back top officials from their Easter break to discuss the matter today at Downing Street. Opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn has requested a briefing on the situation, which is usual with matters regarding national security, such as military interventions. Meanwhile, Paris announced it has proof of the chemical attack in Syria. “We have proof that chemical weapons were used last week, at least chlorine, and that they were used by the regime of Bashar al-Assad,” Macron said during an interview on France’s TF1 television.

By Benjamin Music

Photo: ImageSat International