Syrian minister accuses UN members of terror support

Syrian foreign minister Walid al-Moallem accused some UN Security Council members yesterday of supporting “terrorism”, in the country in a speech clearly aimed at Britain and its allies, who support the opposition.

Addressing the UN’s annual ministerial meeting, Mr Moallem said peace required Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Libya and others to stop arming, financing and supporting the opposition. He also alluded to the anti-Islam video that has provoked violent demonstrations around the Muslim world.

“This terrorism, which is externally supported, is accompanied by media provocation based on igniting religious extremism sponsored by well-known states in the region that facilitate the flow of arms, money and fighters,” he said.

The Security Council’s major powers remain deeply divided over the 18-month Syria conflict. Russia and China, key backers of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, have vetoed three resolutions by Britain, the US and France, which have called for Mr Assad to be replaced.

Mr Moallem insisted some countries were interfering in Syrian domestic affairs. “We heard calls from this podium that invite[Mr Assad] to step down,” he said. “This is a blatant interference in the domestic affairs of Syria.”