Russia: US Airstrikes in Syria Violate International Law [View all]

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Source: Voice of America

Scott Stearns

September 26, 2014 3:39 PM
UNITED NATIONS—

Russia says U.S. and Arab allies bombing Islamic State militants in Syria are violating international law because they have not received permission from authorities in Damascus.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says any use of force against terrorist threats should be done in accordance with international law and with the consent of the countries where that use of force is taking place.

Speaking to reporters at the United Nations, Lavrov said, "It's very important that such cooperation with Syrian authorities is established, even now that it is an accomplished fact, because excluding Syrian authorities from the struggle that is taking place, the effort that is taking place on their territory not only goes against international law but undermines the efficiency of the effort.

Unlike Iraq, which has requested airstrikes against Islamic State fighters, U.S. and allied attacks in Syria have been made without the permission of President Bashar al-Assad.

Read more: http://www.voanews.com/content/russia-us-airstrikes-syria-violate-international-law/2463923.html