The transitional leadership in Syria has found remnants of former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad’s clandestine chemical weapons programme, including raw materials and munitions similar to those used to carry out deadly gas attacks during the country’s long-running civil war, said a Syrian official on Tuesday.Syrian authorities have also taken into custody 18 suspects, including high-level military, political and technical officials, for their alleged involvement in Assad’s chemical weapons programme, said Mohamad Katoub, Syria’s permanent representative to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in The Hague.&nbsp;The names of the suspects were not made public because the investigation was ongoing, he said, adding that several had served as major generals under the Assad regime, and at least four were on European, UK or US sanctions lists, he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-krishan-nagar-or-ram-gali-in-lahore-pak-succumbs-to-extremists-pressure-makes-u-turn-on-renaming-plan-1779817989012">No Krishan Nagar or Ram Gali in Lahore: Pak succumbs to extremists’ pressure, makes U-turn on renaming plan</a>&nbsp;Syria has vowed to work with the international community to rid itself of legacy weapons of mass destruction that pose a proliferation risk.&nbsp;The OPCW said in a report on Tuesday that its team in Syria had visited several high-priority undeclared locations in the northern coastal and central areas with Syrian authorities. “Dozens of undeclared chemical munitions such as aerial bombs and rockets, as well as separately found chemicals and related equipment” had been discovered.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rs-5-fish-rice-meals-no-liquor-vends-near-schools-and-temples-among-cm-suvendu-s-new-initiatives-in-bengal-1779811152626">Rs 5 fish-rice meals, no liquor vends near schools and temples among CM Suvendu’s new initiatives in Bengal</a>&nbsp;Syrian teams, working for months with OPCW inspectors, ⁠located more than 70 rockets and aerial bombs, as well as raw ingredients for the production of sarin, a nerve agent used by Assad’s forces in attacks that killed more than 1,300 people in the Damascus suburb of Ghouta in August 2013 and Al-Lataminah in March 2017, Katoub said.&nbsp;Chemical weapon mixing and storage equipment and hexamine, a stabilisation agent known to have been used by Assad's forces in sarin production, were also found during searches at three locations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-sets-up-high-level-committee-to-examine-unnatural-demographic-changes-in-country-1779803278173">Govt sets up high-level committee to examine ‘unnatural’ demographic changes in country</a>&nbsp;“Despite ⁠the secrecy, the danger, and the immense security challenges ... today we delivered for the Syrian people and for the world," Katoub said. "It is the first time such munitions could be recovered before they were used in crimes against the Syrian people."&nbsp;Joint investigations by the United Nations and the global chemical weapons watchdog in The Hague had previously found that sarin, as well as chlorine and sulphur mustard gas, was used repeatedly by the Assad regime. The OPCW, which oversees the international ban on toxic munitions, has said ⁠as many as 100 sites across Syria need to be inspected.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-woman-shot-dead-by-masked-man-at-us-supermarket-cctv-captures-attack-1779798419291">Indian-origin woman shot dead by masked man at US supermarket; CCTV captures attack</a>&nbsp;Syria signed the Chemical Weapons Convention in 2013 and declared a 1,300-tonne stockpile, but prohibited use continued. The size of the remaining programme and stockpile has remained unclear.In March, Syria launched a plan supported by Washington to rid the Middle Eastern country of its legacy chemical weapons.

Syrian teams ⁠found more than 70 rockets and aerial bombs, besides raw ingredients for the production of sarin, a nerve agent used by Assad’s forces in attacks that killed more than 1,300 people in the Damascus suburb of Ghouta in August 2013 and Al-Lataminah in March 2017

The transitional leadership in Syria has found remnants of former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad’s clandestine chemical weapons programme, including raw materials and munitions similar to those used to carry out deadly gas attacks during the country’s long-running civil war, said a Syrian official on Tuesday. Syrian authorities have also taken into custody 18 suspects, including high-level military, political and technical officials, for their alleged involvement in Assad’s chemical weapons programme, said Mohamad Katoub, Syria’s permanent representative to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in The Hague. The names of the suspects were not made public because the investigation was ongoing, he said, adding that several had served as major generals under the Assad regime, and at least four were on European, UK or US sanctions lists, he added. Also Read: No Krishan Nagar or Ram Gali in Lahore: Pak succumbs to extremists’ pressure, makes U-turn on renaming plan Syria has vowed to work with the international community to rid itself of legacy weapons of mass destruction that pose a proliferation risk. The OPCW said in a report on Tuesday that its team in Syria had visited several high-priority undeclared locations in the northern coastal and central areas with Syrian authorities. “Dozens of undeclared chemical munitions such as aerial bombs and rockets, as well as separately found chemicals and related equipment” had been discovered. Also Read: Rs 5 fish-rice meals, no liquor vends near schools and temples among CM Suvendu’s new initiatives in Bengal Syrian teams, working for months with OPCW inspectors, ⁠located more than 70 rockets and aerial bombs, as well as raw ingredients for the production of sarin, a nerve agent used by Assad’s forces in attacks that killed more than 1,300 people in the Damascus suburb of Ghouta in August 2013 and Al-Lataminah in March 2017, Katoub said. Chemical weapon mixing and storage equipment and hexamine, a stabilisation agent known to have been used by Assad's forces in sarin production, were also found during searches at three locations. Also Read: Govt sets up high-level committee to examine ‘unnatural’ demographic changes in country “Despite ⁠the secrecy, the danger, and the immense security challenges ... today we delivered for the Syrian people and for the world," Katoub said. "It is the first time such munitions could be recovered before they were used in crimes against the Syrian people." Joint investigations by the United Nations and the global chemical weapons watchdog in The Hague had previously found that sarin, as well as chlorine and sulphur mustard gas, was used repeatedly by the Assad regime. The OPCW, which oversees the international ban on toxic munitions, has said ⁠as many as 100 sites across Syria need to be inspected. Also Read: Indian-origin woman shot dead by masked man at US supermarket; CCTV captures attack Syria signed the Chemical Weapons Convention in 2013 and declared a 1,300-tonne stockpile, but prohibited use continued. The size of the remaining programme and stockpile has remained unclear. In March, Syria launched a plan supported by Washington to rid the Middle Eastern country of its legacy chemical weapons.

Syrian teams ⁠found more than 70 rockets and aerial bombs, besides raw ingredients for the production of sarin, a nerve agent used by Assad’s forces in attacks that killed more than 1,300 people in the Damascus suburb of Ghouta in August 2013 and Al-Lataminah in March 2017

Undeclared chemical weapons from former president Assad-era found in Syria

Does Iran have chemical weapons? The US accuses Tehran of developing pharmaceutical-based agents that target the central nervous system. These ‘silent’ weapons, potentially mountable on missiles or drones pose a threat arguably deadlier than conventional explosives.

Does Iran have chemical weapons? The US accuses Tehran of developing pharmaceutical-based agents that target the central nervous system. These ‘silent’ weapons, potentially mountable on missiles or drones pose a threat arguably deadlier than conventional explosives.

‘More deadly than missiles?’ Does Iran have chemical or unconventional weapons

A Major Diplomatic Flashpoint Unfolded at the Chemical Weapons Convention in the Hague Where Qatar and Ireland Are Accusing Israel of Using Prohibited Chemical Weapons in Its Military Operations in Gaza.

Qatar, Ireland Accuse Israel of Using Chemical Weapons in Gaza, Demand Probe

Together, these weapons challenge medical response, legal norms and public trust in ways that conventional munitions do not. 

Together, these weapons challenge medical response, legal norms and public trust in ways that conventional munitions do not.&nbsp;

'Weapons of fear': Terrifying science behind thermobaric, radiological and chemical arms

Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans has called for intensified sanctions against Russia, claiming “widespread” use of chemical weapons by Moscow in Ukraine. Dutch and German intelligence agencies on Friday (Jul 4) alleged that they have gathered evidence on the use of banned weapons, including dropping a choking agent from drones to drive soldiers out of trenches so they can be shot.&nbsp;“The main conclusion is that we can confirm Russia is intensifying its use of chemical weapons,” Brekelmans told Reuters. “This intensification is concerning because it is part of a trend we have been observing for several years now, where Russia’s use of chemical weapons in this war is becoming more normalised, standardised, and widespread.”&nbsp;Germany’s BND foreign intelligence agency has confirmed the findings in a statement. The head of the Dutch Military Intelligence Agency (MIVD), Peter Reesink, said the conclusions are based on “our own independent intelligence, so we have observed it ourselves based on our own investigations.” The findings were presented in a letter to the Dutch parliament on Friday.&nbsp;Last year in May, the United States accused Russia of using chloropicrin, a toxic chemical compound that was first used by Germany during World War I. Meanwhile, Ukraine has alleged that Russia used chemical weapons in thousands of instances. Denying the use of munitions, Moscow has accused Kyiv of doing so.&nbsp;The Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Wednesday (Jul 2) said that the Federal Security Service found a Ukrainian cache of explosive devices containing chloropicrin in the eastern side of the country. However, Ukraine has denied the accusations.&nbsp;Last year, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), a disarmament agency in The Hague with 193 member states, said that initial accusations made by both nations were “insufficiently substantiated”.&nbsp;The Dutch defence minister said that at least three Ukrainian deaths have been linked to chemical weapons use, while over 2,500 people wounded on the battlefield reported chemical weapons-related symptoms to health authorities. The increased use of chemical weapons by Russia is not only a threat to Ukraine but other nations as well, Brekelmans added.&nbsp;“We must further increase the pressure. This means looking at more sanctions and specifically not allowing them (Russia) to participate in international bodies like the Executive Council of the OPCW,” he said.&nbsp;‘A large-scale program’&nbsp;Reesink mentioned “thousands of instances” of chemical weapons use by Russia and also cited a Ukrainian figure of 9,000. “This isn’t just some ad-hoc tinkering at the frontline; it is truly part of a large-scale program. And that is, of course, also concerning because if we don’t clarify and publicise what Russia is doing, it’s highly likely these trends will continue,” Reesink said. He called the use of banned weapons “almost standing operating procedure.”&nbsp;OPCW, which was created to implement and monitor compliance with the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), has listed Chloropicrin as a banned choking agent. The chemical can result in severe irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. If ingested, it can result in burns in the mouth and stomach, nausea and vomiting and difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.

Last year in May, the United States accused Russia of using chloropicrin, a toxic chemical compound that was first used by Germany during World War I. Meanwhile, Ukraine has alleged that Russia used chemical weapons in thousands of instances.

Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans has called for intensified sanctions against Russia, claiming “widespread” use of chemical weapons by Moscow in Ukraine. Dutch and German intelligence agencies on Friday (Jul 4) alleged that they have gathered evidence on the use of banned weapons, including dropping a choking agent from drones to drive soldiers out of trenches so they can be shot. “The main conclusion is that we can confirm Russia is intensifying its use of chemical weapons,” Brekelmans told Reuters. “This intensification is concerning because it is part of a trend we have been observing for several years now, where Russia’s use of chemical weapons in this war is becoming more normalised, standardised, and widespread.” Germany’s BND foreign intelligence agency has confirmed the findings in a statement. The head of the Dutch Military Intelligence Agency (MIVD), Peter Reesink, said the conclusions are based on “our own independent intelligence, so we have observed it ourselves based on our own investigations.” The findings were presented in a letter to the Dutch parliament on Friday. Last year in May, the United States accused Russia of using chloropicrin, a toxic chemical compound that was first used by Germany during World War I. Meanwhile, Ukraine has alleged that Russia used chemical weapons in thousands of instances. Denying the use of munitions, Moscow has accused Kyiv of doing so. The Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Wednesday (Jul 2) said that the Federal Security Service found a Ukrainian cache of explosive devices containing chloropicrin in the eastern side of the country. However, Ukraine has denied the accusations. Last year, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), a disarmament agency in The Hague with 193 member states, said that initial accusations made by both nations were “insufficiently substantiated”. The Dutch defence minister said that at least three Ukrainian deaths have been linked to chemical weapons use, while over 2,500 people wounded on the battlefield reported chemical weapons-related symptoms to health authorities. The increased use of chemical weapons by Russia is not only a threat to Ukraine but other nations as well, Brekelmans added. “We must further increase the pressure. This means looking at more sanctions and specifically not allowing them (Russia) to participate in international bodies like the Executive Council of the OPCW,” he said. ‘A large-scale program’ Reesink mentioned “thousands of instances” of chemical weapons use by Russia and also cited a Ukrainian figure of 9,000. “This isn’t just some ad-hoc tinkering at the frontline; it is truly part of a large-scale program. And that is, of course, also concerning because if we don’t clarify and publicise what Russia is doing, it’s highly likely these trends will continue,” Reesink said. He called the use of banned weapons “almost standing operating procedure.” OPCW, which was created to implement and monitor compliance with the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), has listed Chloropicrin as a banned choking agent. The chemical can result in severe irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. If ingested, it can result in burns in the mouth and stomach, nausea and vomiting and difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.

Last year in May, the United States accused Russia of using chloropicrin, a toxic chemical compound that was first used by Germany during World War I. Meanwhile, Ukraine has alleged that Russia used chemical weapons in thousands of instances.

Is Russia using chemical weapons in Ukraine? Dutch defence minister alleges ‘widespread’ use of banned munitions

As many as 100 chemical weapons sites could still be existing in Syria, far more than the 27 sites initially declared by the regime of former president Bashar al-Assad when Damascus agreed to disarm in 2013, reveals a New York Times report based on the findings of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). The OPCW, a treaty-based agency in The Hague with 193 member countries, is tasked with implementing the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention. Chemical weapons inspectors were taken to previously unseen production and storage locations, dating from the rule of Bashar al-Assad, by Syria&rsquo;s caretaker government.
The suspected sites were likely used for research, manufacturing, and storage of nerve agents like sarin, chlorine and mustard gas. Some are believed to be hidden in caves or similar difficult-to-reach sites, raising the risk that the dangerous stockpiles could fall into the hands of extremists and armed groups.
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An OPCW team visited Syria in March to prepare for the task of locating and destroying remnants of chemical weapons stockpile. They were taken to locations that had not been declared to OPCW by the Assad government. The team was given access to documents and details about Assad&rsquo;s chemical weapons programme. &ldquo;The Syrian caretaker authorities extended all possible support and cooperation,&rdquo; the agency said in a summary of the visit posted online. The OPCW was provided security and had &ldquo;unfettered access&rdquo; to sites and people, in sharp contrast to the situation under Assad when Syrian officials used to stonewall OPCW inspectors.
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Although the new leadership in Syria allowed OPCW to start its ground assessments and pledged to eliminate remaining weapons, some experts are still sceptical. &ldquo;There are many locations that we don&rsquo;t know about because the old regime was lying to the OPCW,&rdquo; Raed al-Saleh of the Syria Civil Defence told the NYT. Moreover, Israeli airstrikes on some suspected facilities after Assad&rsquo;s ouster may have destroyed key evidence, thwarting any bid to document violations. Israel says it struck suspected chemical weapons sites in Syria to prevent them from falling into the hands of hostile actors.
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Syria&rsquo;s chemical weapons programme dates to the 1970s and involved hundreds of scientists, most of them trained in Europe. Despite official disarmament, watchdogs documented repeated use of banned substances till 2018 at least.
Assad and his Russian backers always denied ever having used chemical weapons in the civil war that began in 2011 and left hundreds of thousands dead.
Syria joined the agency under a U.S.-Russian deal after a 2013 sarin gas attack near Damascus killed hundreds. Around 1,300 metric tonnes of chemical weapons and precursors were destroyed. But it is still believed to have kept some of the weapons and was accused of using them again in the following years.
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The destruction of any remaining chemical weapons was among the conditions the United States imposed on Syria if it wants sanctions relief.
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World: The suspected sites were likely used for research, manufacturing, and storage of nerve agents like sarin, chlorine, and mustard gas. Some are believed to be hidden in caves or similar difficult-to-reach sites.

As many as 100 chemical weapons sites could still be existing in Syria, far more than the 27 sites initially declared by the regime of former president Bashar al-Assad when Damascus agreed to disarm in 2013, reveals a New York Times report based on the findings of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). The OPCW, a treaty-based agency in The Hague with 193 member countries, is tasked with implementing the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention. Chemical weapons inspectors were taken to previously unseen production and storage locations, dating from the rule of Bashar al-Assad, by Syria’s caretaker government. The suspected sites were likely used for research, manufacturing, and storage of nerve agents like sarin, chlorine and mustard gas. Some are believed to be hidden in caves or similar difficult-to-reach sites, raising the risk that the dangerous stockpiles could fall into the hands of extremists and armed groups. Also Read | Iran’s top diplomat rejects offer for direct nuclear talks with US, calls it ‘meaningless’ An OPCW team visited Syria in March to prepare for the task of locating and destroying remnants of chemical weapons stockpile. They were taken to locations that had not been declared to OPCW by the Assad government. The team was given access to documents and details about Assad’s chemical weapons programme. “The Syrian caretaker authorities extended all possible support and cooperation,” the agency said in a summary of the visit posted online. The OPCW was provided security and had “unfettered access” to sites and people, in sharp contrast to the situation under Assad when Syrian officials used to stonewall OPCW inspectors. Also Read | Senior US official heads to Pakistan with focus on critical minerals deal Although the new leadership in Syria allowed OPCW to start its ground assessments and pledged to eliminate remaining weapons, some experts are still sceptical. “There are many locations that we don’t know about because the old regime was lying to the OPCW,” Raed al-Saleh of the Syria Civil Defence told the NYT. Moreover, Israeli airstrikes on some suspected facilities after Assad’s ouster may have destroyed key evidence, thwarting any bid to document violations. Israel says it struck suspected chemical weapons sites in Syria to prevent them from falling into the hands of hostile actors. Also Read | Sam Altman shares his AI-generated cricketer avatar in India jersey; internet sees biz strategy, roasts him Syria’s chemical weapons programme dates to the 1970s and involved hundreds of scientists, most of them trained in Europe. Despite official disarmament, watchdogs documented repeated use of banned substances till 2018 at least. Assad and his Russian backers always denied ever having used chemical weapons in the civil war that began in 2011 and left hundreds of thousands dead. Syria joined the agency under a U.S.-Russian deal after a 2013 sarin gas attack near Damascus killed hundreds. Around 1,300 metric tonnes of chemical weapons and precursors were destroyed. But it is still believed to have kept some of the weapons and was accused of using them again in the following years. Also Read | Pope Francis makes surprise public appearance at the Vatican The destruction of any remaining chemical weapons was among the conditions the United States imposed on Syria if it wants sanctions relief.

Over 100 chemical weapons sites of Assad regime may still be existing in Syria: Report

The head of the chemical weapons watchdog said on Thursday (December 12) he would ask Syria's new leaders to grant investigators access to the country to continue work identifying perpetrators of attacks that killed and injured thousands during the civil war.

Addressing a special session of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), Fernando Arias said his office had seen positive signals from Syria about the need to rid the country of chemical weapons, but no formal request had been received.

The 41-member executive council of the OPCW was meeting in The Hague to discuss next steps after Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's sudden toppling.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-crisis-updates-blinken-vows-to-work-with-iraq-against-is-syrians-celebrate-assads-fall-783807">West Asia crisis: Blinken vows to work with Iraq against IS; Syrians celebrate Assad's fall</a>

Speaking ahead of the meeting, U.S. ambassador to the OPCW, Nicole Shampaine, said Washington viewed Assad's fall as an extraordinary chance to rid Syria of chemical weapons.

"We want to finish the job and it's really an opportunity for Syria's new leadership to work with the international community, work with the OPCW to get the job done once and for all," Shampaine said.

Arias said the evolving political landscape in Syria offered an opportunity for the organization to finally obtain clarifications on the full extent and scope of the Syrian chemical weapons program after 11 years of inspections.

Warning of proliferation risks, he said "victims deserve that perpetrators that we identified be brought to justice" after their multiple use during the 13-year civil war.

He will seek access for the OPCW's Investigation and Identification Team. That unit and a joint U.N.-OPCW mechanism have already identified Syria's armed forces as having used chemical weapons nine times between 2015 and 2017.

The culprits of many attacks remain unidentified.

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Syria joined the OPCW in 2013 under a U.S.-Russian deal and 1,300 metric tons of chemical weapons and precursors were destroyed by the international community. But after more than a decade of inspections, Syria still possesses banned munitions.

Assad-ruled Syria and its military ally Russia always denied using chemical weapons in the civil war.

With Syria still in disorder with myriad armed groups around the shattered country, the OPCW will be concerned to act quickly to prevent any chemical weapons being used.

Echoing such concerns, Germany's ambassador to the OPCW, Thomas Schieb, said: "Relevant storehouses and facilities need to be identified, secured and opened for inspection by the OPCW."

"We will judge the new Syrian authorities by their action. Now is the opportunity to finally and verifiably destroy the remnants of Assad’s chemical weapons program..."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

The head of the chemical weapons watchdog said on Thursday (December 12) he would ask Syria's new leaders to grant investigators access to the country to continue work identifying perpetrators of attacks that killed and injured thousands during the civil war.

The head of the chemical weapons watchdog said on Thursday (December 12) he would ask Syria's new leaders to grant investigators access to the country to continue work identifying perpetrators of attacks that killed and injured thousands during the civil war. Addressing a special session of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), Fernando Arias said his office had seen positive signals from Syria about the need to rid the country of chemical weapons, but no formal request had been received. The 41-member executive council of the OPCW was meeting in The Hague to discuss next steps after Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's sudden toppling. Also read | West Asia crisis: Blinken vows to work with Iraq against IS; Syrians celebrate Assad's fall Speaking ahead of the meeting, U.S. ambassador to the OPCW, Nicole Shampaine, said Washington viewed Assad's fall as an extraordinary chance to rid Syria of chemical weapons. "We want to finish the job and it's really an opportunity for Syria's new leadership to work with the international community, work with the OPCW to get the job done once and for all," Shampaine said. Arias said the evolving political landscape in Syria offered an opportunity for the organization to finally obtain clarifications on the full extent and scope of the Syrian chemical weapons program after 11 years of inspections. Warning of proliferation risks, he said "victims deserve that perpetrators that we identified be brought to justice" after their multiple use during the 13-year civil war. He will seek access for the OPCW's Investigation and Identification Team. That unit and a joint U.N.-OPCW mechanism have already identified Syria's armed forces as having used chemical weapons nine times between 2015 and 2017. The culprits of many attacks remain unidentified. Also read | West Asia crisis: Antony Blinken warns against triggering further conflicts in Syria Syria joined the OPCW in 2013 under a U.S.-Russian deal and 1,300 metric tons of chemical weapons and precursors were destroyed by the international community. But after more than a decade of inspections, Syria still possesses banned munitions. Assad-ruled Syria and its military ally Russia always denied using chemical weapons in the civil war. With Syria still in disorder with myriad armed groups around the shattered country, the OPCW will be concerned to act quickly to prevent any chemical weapons being used. Echoing such concerns, Germany's ambassador to the OPCW, Thomas Schieb, said: "Relevant storehouses and facilities need to be identified, secured and opened for inspection by the OPCW." "We will judge the new Syrian authorities by their action. Now is the opportunity to finally and verifiably destroy the remnants of Assad’s chemical weapons program..." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Chemical weapons use in Syria must be investigated, says international watchdog

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has rejected claims by the US that Russia has engaged in chemical warfare in the Ukraine conflict. Peskov said that the allegations were “absolutely baseless and not supported by any evidence.”

Gravitas: Russia Responds to US' Chemical Weapons Accusations in Ukraine, 'Absolutely Baseless...'

The United States on Wednesday (May 1) accused Russia of having used "the chemical weapon chloropicrin against Ukrainian forces" in violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention.

The statement from the US State Department further alleged that Moscow has also been using "riot control agents (tear gas) as a method of warfare in Ukraine, also in violation of the CWC."

The statement also details US sanctions against more than 280 individuals and entities "to impose additional costs on Russia for both its foreign aggression and internal repression."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-new-sanctions-on-china-others-supporting-russias-war-efforts-717167">US imposes new sanctions on China, others supporting Russia's war efforts</a>

Furthermore, it adds that among these are more than 80 entities and individuals, "including those engaged in the development of Russia’s future energy, metals, and mining production and export capacity; sanctions evasion and circumvention; and furthering Russia's ability to wage its war against Ukraine."

<h2>'Not an isolated incident'</h2>

The statement asserts that the use of such chemical weapons is far from an "isolated incident" and "is probably driven by Russian forces' desire to dislodge Ukrainian forces from fortified positions and achieve tactical gains on the battlefield."

Slamming Moscow, the statement further states, "Russia's ongoing disregard for its obligations to the CWC comes from the same playbook as its operations to poison Aleksey Navalny and Sergei and Yulia Skripal with Novichok nerve agents."

Determining the illegal use of chemical weapons and riot weapons, America said it was imposing sanctions on three Russian state entities linked to Moscow's development of chemical and biological weapons. One of the entities is a specialised military unit that reportedly facilitated the use of chloropicrin against Ukrainian troops.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-attacks-in-ukraines-east-five-killed-717166">Russia intensifies attacks in Ukraine's east, five killed</a>

Furthermore, four Russian companies that support the three entities were also sanctioned.

Separately, the US Treasury has imposed sanctions on three entities and two individuals who were involved in buying items for Russian military institutes linked to the country's chemical and biological weapons programmes.

These sanctions freeze any US-based assets belonging to the sanctioned entities and generally prohibit Americans from doing business with them.

<h2>What is Chloropicrin?</h2>

Chloropicrin is classified as a banned choking agent by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). The Hague-based organisation as per Reuters, was established to enforce and oversee compliance with the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) of 1993.

One of the earliest instances of the use of this banned chemical weapon was during World War I when German forces fired it against Allied troops.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Wednesday (May 1) accused Russia of having used "the chemical weapon chloropicrin against Ukrainian forces" in violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention.

The United States on Wednesday (May 1) accused Russia of having used "the chemical weapon chloropicrin against Ukrainian forces" in violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention. The statement from the US State Department further alleged that Moscow has also been using "riot control agents (tear gas) as a method of warfare in Ukraine, also in violation of the CWC." The statement also details US sanctions against more than 280 individuals and entities "to impose additional costs on Russia for both its foreign aggression and internal repression." Also read | US imposes new sanctions on China, others supporting Russia's war efforts Furthermore, it adds that among these are more than 80 entities and individuals, "including those engaged in the development of Russia’s future energy, metals, and mining production and export capacity; sanctions evasion and circumvention; and furthering Russia's ability to wage its war against Ukraine." 'Not an isolated incident' The statement asserts that the use of such chemical weapons is far from an "isolated incident" and "is probably driven by Russian forces' desire to dislodge Ukrainian forces from fortified positions and achieve tactical gains on the battlefield." Slamming Moscow, the statement further states, "Russia's ongoing disregard for its obligations to the CWC comes from the same playbook as its operations to poison Aleksey Navalny and Sergei and Yulia Skripal with Novichok nerve agents." Determining the illegal use of chemical weapons and riot weapons, America said it was imposing sanctions on three Russian state entities linked to Moscow's development of chemical and biological weapons. One of the entities is a specialised military unit that reportedly facilitated the use of chloropicrin against Ukrainian troops. Also read | Russia intensifies attacks in Ukraine's east, five killed Furthermore, four Russian companies that support the three entities were also sanctioned. Separately, the US Treasury has imposed sanctions on three entities and two individuals who were involved in buying items for Russian military institutes linked to the country's chemical and biological weapons programmes. These sanctions freeze any US-based assets belonging to the sanctioned entities and generally prohibit Americans from doing business with them. What is Chloropicrin? Chloropicrin is classified as a banned choking agent by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). The Hague-based organisation as per Reuters, was established to enforce and oversee compliance with the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) of 1993. One of the earliest instances of the use of this banned chemical weapon was during World War I when German forces fired it against Allied troops. (With inputs from agencies)

US accuses Russia of using chemical weapons against Ukraine, links violation to Alexei Navalny poisoning

Russia has maintained an impressive arsenal that it keeps using to strike Ukraine. Starting with long-range strategic launchers to ballistic missiles and water drones to heavy bombers but reports from the front line show that Russians are now using tear gas grenades against Ukrainians. Keep watching to know more!

US accuses Russia of using Chemical weapon, to impose fresh sanctions on Moscow

Ukrainian troops have accused Russia of systematically using internationally outlawed chemical gas attacks on the battlefield. In statements given to the Daily Telegraph, they said Russia regularly uses small drones to drop teargas and other chemicals. The use of such substance, known as CS, is banned under international treaties, primarily the Chemical Weapons Convention.

According to a top Ukrainian commander, the frequent CS attacks have forced the Ukrainian troops to carry gas masks to the frontlines.

A commander of the Ukrainian army on the frontlines in Donetsk Oblast claimed, "Nearly every position in our area of the front was getting one or two gas grenades dropped on them a day."

"The only way for them to successfully attack us [is] with gas," he added.

The commander added that the tactic has induced fear and panic among troops on the frontlines. As and when gas is detected, "the first instinct is to get out", he is quoted as saying.

As troops get out of their trenches and start running away, Russian troops easily take them down from far away. Ukraine claims Russia has carried out 625 gas-related attacks on their troops since the war broke out in 2022.

While most of the troops on the frontlines now carry gas masks, their effectiveness is highly limited as they are ex-Soviet models and not fit for modern-day war.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russia pounds Zaporizhzhia, three people killed &amp; many injured

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As a result, President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on the West for urgent support and weapons needed for a counteroffensive.

"We don't have shells for counteroffensive actions, as for the defence - there are several initiatives, and we're receiving weapons," he said last week.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwimyv6T-q-FAxWjoGMGHUJRBgkQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-air-defence-missiles-could-be-over-soon-claims-zelensky-708518" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-air-defence-missiles-could-be-over-soon-claims-zelensky-708518&amp;ved=2ahUKEwimyv6T-q-FAxWjoGMGHUJRBgkQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">Ukraine`s air defence missiles could be over soon, claims Zelensky</a>

One of the chemical weapons allegedly used by Russia was identified as a K-51 gas grenade by chemical weapons expert Marc-Michael Blum. These grenades are typically filled with tear gas.

It is to be noted that even Russia had accused Ukraine of using chemical weapons back in 2023.

Russia accused Ukrainian forces of using unspecified chemical weapons in drones in Russian-occupied eastern Ukraine.

Both sides deny claims.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

Ukrainian troops have accused Russia of systematically using internationally outlawed chemical gas attacks on the battlefield. In statements given to the Daily Telegraph, they said Russia regularly uses small drones to drop teargas and other chemicals.

Ukrainian troops have accused Russia of systematically using internationally outlawed chemical gas attacks on the battlefield. In statements given to the Daily Telegraph, they said Russia regularly uses small drones to drop teargas and other chemicals. The use of such substance, known as CS, is banned under international treaties, primarily the Chemical Weapons Convention. According to a top Ukrainian commander, the frequent CS attacks have forced the Ukrainian troops to carry gas masks to the frontlines. A commander of the Ukrainian army on the frontlines in Donetsk Oblast claimed, "Nearly every position in our area of the front was getting one or two gas grenades dropped on them a day." "The only way for them to successfully attack us [is] with gas," he added. The commander added that the tactic has induced fear and panic among troops on the frontlines. As and when gas is detected, "the first instinct is to get out", he is quoted as saying. As troops get out of their trenches and start running away, Russian troops easily take them down from far away. Ukraine claims Russia has carried out 625 gas-related attacks on their troops since the war broke out in 2022. While most of the troops on the frontlines now carry gas masks, their effectiveness is highly limited as they are ex-Soviet models and not fit for modern-day war. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Russia pounds Zaporizhzhia, three people killed & many injured × As a result, President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on the West for urgent support and weapons needed for a counteroffensive. "We don't have shells for counteroffensive actions, as for the defence - there are several initiatives, and we're receiving weapons," he said last week. Also read: Ukraine`s air defence missiles could be over soon, claims Zelensky One of the chemical weapons allegedly used by Russia was identified as a K-51 gas grenade by chemical weapons expert Marc-Michael Blum. These grenades are typically filled with tear gas. It is to be noted that even Russia had accused Ukraine of using chemical weapons back in 2023. Russia accused Ukrainian forces of using unspecified chemical weapons in drones in Russian-occupied eastern Ukraine. Both sides deny claims. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

Ukrainian troops terrified as Russia intensifies use of ‘chemical weapons’: Report

Israeli President Isaac Herzog said in an interview that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-had-intentions-of-using-chemical-weapons-as-part-of-terror-attack-report-649949">Hamas militants had plans to use cyanide agents</a> against Israeli civilians when they launched an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, killing more than 1,400 people and taking around 200 hostages.&nbsp;

During the interview with Sky News, Herzog supported his claims by showing material recovered from a USB drive on the body of a Hamas terrorist.&nbsp;The document was copied from al-Qaeda and had "detailed instructions on creating chemical weapons". It also included "precise instructions for preparing a device for dispersing cyanide agents".&nbsp;

"This is material which was found on the body of one of those sadistic villains. It's al-Qaeda material, official al-Qaeda material. When dealing with ISIS, al-Qaeda, and Hamas, this is what we're dealing with. And in this material, there were instructions, on how to produce chemical weapons," he said.&nbsp;

Tensions continue to escalate, and several claims and counterclaims are being made. But there's no data that would substantiate what Hamas planned, or whether or not the militants&nbsp;were carrying the elements to make a bomb.&nbsp;

There's no confirmation of the use of chemical weapons in the Israel-Hamas war which started after the Oct 7 attack. But let's decode what exactly chemical weapons are.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-white-phosphorus-bombs-that-israel-reportedly-launched-in-gaza-it-is-legal-to-use-645106">What are white phosphorus bombs that Israel reportedly used in Gaza? Is it illegal?</a>&nbsp;

<h2>What are chemical weapons?&nbsp;</h2>

A Chemical Weapon (CW) is a chemical used to cause intentional death or harm through its toxic properties. Chemical weapons also include munitions, gadgets, and other equipment specifically designed to weaponise toxic substances.&nbsp;

The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) says that any chemical which through its chemical action on life processes can cause death, temporary incapacitation or permanent harm&nbsp;through its toxic properties is termed a chemical weapon. Chlorine, which is a&nbsp;non-controlled chemical, could also become a chemical weapon if used in a conflict.&nbsp;

Chemical weapons are&nbsp;condemned by human rights groups, but white phosphorous is not banned by the CWC. Neither are cluster munitions, which fall under a separate international treaty.

Chemical weapons can be used in warfare and are known by the military acronym NBC (for nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare). They are different from nuclear weapons, biological weapons, and radiological weapons, but are classified as weapons of mass destruction (WMD).&nbsp;

Chemical weapons are cheap and simple to make, allowing even small terrorist groups to cause mass casualties in small quantities.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-israel-hamas-war-spreading-al-qaeda-and-is-call-on-followers-to-attack-jewish-and-us-targets-650184">Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, al-Qaeda, Islamic State call for global attacks</a>

<h2>How chemical weapons are used?&nbsp;</h2>

Chemical weapons are extremely toxic synthetic chemicals and can be extensively disseminated in gas, liquid, and solid forms. They can readily injure anyone other than the intended targets. Chemical weapons in the modern era include nerve gas, tear gas, and pepper spray.&nbsp;

These CW agents can be deadly or incapacitate&nbsp;humans. They vary from explosive compounds, in that their damaging effects are localised and triggered by shear stress.&nbsp;

There are thousands of toxic substances known, but only a few of them are considered CW agents based on their characteristics, such as high toxicity, imperceptibility to senses, rapidity of action after dissemination, and persistency.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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<h2>Are chemical weapons banned?&nbsp;</h2>

The 1925 Protocol for the Prohibition of the Use of Asphyxiating, Poisonous or Other Gases, and of Bacteriological Methods of Warfare, commonly known as the 1925 Geneva Protocol, bans the use of chemical and bacteriological (biological) weapons in war.&nbsp;

Chemical weapons production, use and stockpiling are banned under the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). Some nations, such as Egypt, North Korea and South Sudan, have not signed or ratified the international arms control treaty.&nbsp;

Under the treaty, the use of the most dangerous "scheduled" toxins and their precursors is banned. This includes nerve agents sarin, VX and the Soviet-era developed Novichok, as well as the poison ricin and blistering agent sulphur mustard.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-family-destroyed-16-year-old-british-teen-noiya-sharabi-confirmed-dead-in-tragic-hamas-attack-650157">A 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Are there long-term effects of chemical weapons?</h2>

Lancet conducted a study, published in 2002, after analysing volunteers who suffered such attacks.&nbsp;

The study mentioned that those who have claimed that they were exposed to chemical warfare agents have often presented with "unusual clinical syndromes or symptom complexes that have caused controversy".&nbsp;

Nerve agents such as sarin, tabun, and soman, are believed to have the most severe long-term consequences.&nbsp;

In some cases, altered neuromuscular function, abnormal electroencephalograms, and impaired psychomotor performance have been reported.&nbsp;

This could affect behaviour, intelligence, and memory, especially if the initial exposure induced cerebral abnormalities detectable via MRI or electroencephalogram.&nbsp;

There can be other effects as well, but it needs more data and analysis to find out other long-term effects, which also vary from case to case.&nbsp;

<h2>When were such weapons used?&nbsp;</h2>

There have been various instances when chemical weapons were deployed. After the development of industrial chemistry in the 19th century, mass manufacturing and deployment of CW agents in warfare became a possibility.

History books have mentioned the German gas attack with chlorine on April 22, 1915, at Ypres, Belgium.&nbsp;

During World War I, the use of these toxic chemicals, including phosgene, sulfur mustard and lewisites, caused 100,000 deaths.&nbsp;

During World War II, Nazis used Zyklon B gas (hydrogen cyanide gas) which killed millions of civilians.&nbsp;

The United States used Agent Orange, a defoliant, during the Vietnam War.&nbsp;

Another instance was in the 1980s during the Iran-Iraq war. An Iraqi nerve agent strike was reportedly launched on the Kurdish civilian population of Halabja, killing hundreds of people.&nbsp;

<h2>How al-Qaeda has used chemical weapons in attacks?</h2>

From late 2006 to mid-2007, al-Qaeda in Iraq detonated a series of crude chlorine bombs in Iraq. The New America Foundation discovered a total of 16 chlorine gas bombs in Iraq, the most recent of which occurred in June 2007.

On Oct 21, 2006, al-Qaeda in Iraq initiated its chlorine bomb campaign in Ramadi by detonating a car filled with mortars and chlorine tanks, injuring three Iraqi police officers and a civilian.&nbsp;

Most publications on al-Qaeda's chemical weapons operations simply claim that there is evidence that it is interested in creating or acquiring chemical weapons.&nbsp;

The 11th volume of al-Qaeda’s Encyclopedia of Jihad talks about how to construct chemical and biological weapons. Osama bin Laden claimed: "‘We have chemical and nuclear weapons as a deterrent and if America used them against us we reserve the right to use them." His remarks came during an interview with a Pakistani journalist in 2001.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

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Israeli President Isaac Herzog said in an interview that Hamas militants had plans to use cyanide agents against Israeli civilians when they launched an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, killing more than 1,400 people and taking around 200 hostages.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog said in an interview that Hamas militants had plans to use cyanide agents against Israeli civilians when they launched an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, killing more than 1,400 people and taking around 200 hostages. During the interview with Sky News, Herzog supported his claims by showing material recovered from a USB drive on the body of a Hamas terrorist. The document was copied from al-Qaeda and had "detailed instructions on creating chemical weapons". It also included "precise instructions for preparing a device for dispersing cyanide agents". "This is material which was found on the body of one of those sadistic villains. It's al-Qaeda material, official al-Qaeda material. When dealing with ISIS, al-Qaeda, and Hamas, this is what we're dealing with. And in this material, there were instructions, on how to produce chemical weapons," he said. Tensions continue to escalate, and several claims and counterclaims are being made. But there's no data that would substantiate what Hamas planned, or whether or not the militants were carrying the elements to make a bomb. There's no confirmation of the use of chemical weapons in the Israel-Hamas war which started after the Oct 7 attack. But let's decode what exactly chemical weapons are. Also read: What are white phosphorus bombs that Israel reportedly used in Gaza? Is it illegal? What are chemical weapons? A Chemical Weapon (CW) is a chemical used to cause intentional death or harm through its toxic properties. Chemical weapons also include munitions, gadgets, and other equipment specifically designed to weaponise toxic substances. The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) says that any chemical which through its chemical action on life processes can cause death, temporary incapacitation or permanent harm through its toxic properties is termed a chemical weapon. Chlorine, which is a non-controlled chemical, could also become a chemical weapon if used in a conflict. Chemical weapons are condemned by human rights groups, but white phosphorous is not banned by the CWC. Neither are cluster munitions, which fall under a separate international treaty. Chemical weapons can be used in warfare and are known by the military acronym NBC (for nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare). They are different from nuclear weapons, biological weapons, and radiological weapons, but are classified as weapons of mass destruction (WMD). Chemical weapons are cheap and simple to make, allowing even small terrorist groups to cause mass casualties in small quantities. Also read: Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, al-Qaeda, Islamic State call for global attacks How chemical weapons are used? Chemical weapons are extremely toxic synthetic chemicals and can be extensively disseminated in gas, liquid, and solid forms. They can readily injure anyone other than the intended targets. Chemical weapons in the modern era include nerve gas, tear gas, and pepper spray. These CW agents can be deadly or incapacitate humans. They vary from explosive compounds, in that their damaging effects are localised and triggered by shear stress. There are thousands of toxic substances known, but only a few of them are considered CW agents based on their characteristics, such as high toxicity, imperceptibility to senses, rapidity of action after dissemination, and persistency. Watch this report: × Are chemical weapons banned? The 1925 Protocol for the Prohibition of the Use of Asphyxiating, Poisonous or Other Gases, and of Bacteriological Methods of Warfare, commonly known as the 1925 Geneva Protocol, bans the use of chemical and bacteriological (biological) weapons in war. Chemical weapons production, use and stockpiling are banned under the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). Some nations, such as Egypt, North Korea and South Sudan, have not signed or ratified the international arms control treaty. Under the treaty, the use of the most dangerous "scheduled" toxins and their precursors is banned. This includes nerve agents sarin, VX and the Soviet-era developed Novichok, as well as the poison ricin and blistering agent sulphur mustard. Also read: A 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack Are there long-term effects of chemical weapons? Lancet conducted a study, published in 2002, after analysing volunteers who suffered such attacks. The study mentioned that those who have claimed that they were exposed to chemical warfare agents have often presented with "unusual clinical syndromes or symptom complexes that have caused controversy". Nerve agents such as sarin, tabun, and soman, are believed to have the most severe long-term consequences. In some cases, altered neuromuscular function, abnormal electroencephalograms, and impaired psychomotor performance have been reported. This could affect behaviour, intelligence, and memory, especially if the initial exposure induced cerebral abnormalities detectable via MRI or electroencephalogram. There can be other effects as well, but it needs more data and analysis to find out other long-term effects, which also vary from case to case. When were such weapons used? There have been various instances when chemical weapons were deployed. After the development of industrial chemistry in the 19th century, mass manufacturing and deployment of CW agents in warfare became a possibility. History books have mentioned the German gas attack with chlorine on April 22, 1915, at Ypres, Belgium. During World War I, the use of these toxic chemicals, including phosgene, sulfur mustard and lewisites, caused 100,000 deaths. During World War II, Nazis used Zyklon B gas (hydrogen cyanide gas) which killed millions of civilians. The United States used Agent Orange, a defoliant, during the Vietnam War. Another instance was in the 1980s during the Iran-Iraq war. An Iraqi nerve agent strike was reportedly launched on the Kurdish civilian population of Halabja, killing hundreds of people. How al-Qaeda has used chemical weapons in attacks? From late 2006 to mid-2007, al-Qaeda in Iraq detonated a series of crude chlorine bombs in Iraq. The New America Foundation discovered a total of 16 chlorine gas bombs in Iraq, the most recent of which occurred in June 2007. On Oct 21, 2006, al-Qaeda in Iraq initiated its chlorine bomb campaign in Ramadi by detonating a car filled with mortars and chlorine tanks, injuring three Iraqi police officers and a civilian. Most publications on al-Qaeda's chemical weapons operations simply claim that there is evidence that it is interested in creating or acquiring chemical weapons. The 11th volume of al-Qaeda’s Encyclopedia of Jihad talks about how to construct chemical and biological weapons. Osama bin Laden claimed: "‘We have chemical and nuclear weapons as a deterrent and if America used them against us we reserve the right to use them." His remarks came during an interview with a Pakistani journalist in 2001. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Did Hamas plan to use chemical weapons on Israelis? What are these 'dirty' weapons?

Two Israeli officials have stated that a USB drive was recovered from the dead body of a Hamas operative by the Israel Defense Forces which contained instructions for creating a “cyanide dispersion device”, as reported by Israel's local media. 
 
The discovery of the cyanide dispersion device was mentioned in detail by two Israeli officials, and a copy of a classified Israeli foreign ministry cable was accessed by the regional media outlet. 
 
“This finding points to an intention by Hamas to use chemical weapons as part of its terror attack against civilians," read the cable claims, as per the media outlet. 
 
As per the media report, it was not from the leaked file if Hamas had an operational intent for using the chemical weapons or a concrete plan or if the terror group was trying to produce the makeshift weapons.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-historical-conflict-between-israel-palestine-amid-unprovoked-escalation-by-hamas-644471">Explained: Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas</a>

As per reports, the Weapons of Mass Destruction Non-proliferation Department of the Israeli Foreign Ministry transmitted a classified cable titled, "Hamas intention of using chemical weapons", to the Israeli embassies, which included the one in Washington DC. 
 
The Hamas, file's authenticity could not be confirmed by WION.

<h2>Hamas field manual reveals militant's capabilities, bloody plans</h2>

A Hamas field manual, which was accessed by The Washington Post, found two weeks ago showed their preparations and illustrated some of its military capabilities. 
 
The manual, which was discovered on the body of a Hamas fighter, includes instructions on operating certain weapons, offers tips on how to kill with a knife and identifies vulnerabilities in Israeli military equipment. 
 
It appears that the document has been prepared for various units of Hamas’ Izzedine al-Qassam Brigades, which includes engineering, anti-armour, infantry, sniper and tunnel specialists along with what the booklet describes as “shock troops.” 
 
“This is a secret military document. It should be kept in a safe place. It is forbidden to move with it except when there are orders,” the first page stated.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war | At least 55 dead as Israel steps up Gaza game

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The back cover of the document has the picture of Palestinian Sheikh Abdullah Azzam, a mentor of Osama bin Laden. 
 
“If this is their source of inspiration, and this is the figure, the symbol, they are looking at, I understand something more about their behaviour on Oct. 7,” stated Michael Milshtein, a former head of the Palestinian department in the Israeli military intelligence, while speaking to The Washington Post.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Two Israeli officials have stated that a USB drive was recovered from the dead body of a Hamas operative by the Israel Defense Forces which contained instructions for creating a “cyanide dispersion device”, as reported by Israel's local media.

Two Israeli officials have stated that a USB drive was recovered from the dead body of a Hamas operative by the Israel Defense Forces which contained instructions for creating a “cyanide dispersion device”, as reported by Israel's local media. The discovery of the cyanide dispersion device was mentioned in detail by two Israeli officials, and a copy of a classified Israeli foreign ministry cable was accessed by the regional media outlet. “This finding points to an intention by Hamas to use chemical weapons as part of its terror attack against civilians," read the cable claims, as per the media outlet. As per the media report, it was not from the leaked file if Hamas had an operational intent for using the chemical weapons or a concrete plan or if the terror group was trying to produce the makeshift weapons. ALSO READ | Explained: Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas As per reports, the Weapons of Mass Destruction Non-proliferation Department of the Israeli Foreign Ministry transmitted a classified cable titled, "Hamas intention of using chemical weapons", to the Israeli embassies, which included the one in Washington DC. The Hamas, file's authenticity could not be confirmed by WION. Hamas field manual reveals militant's capabilities, bloody plans A Hamas field manual, which was accessed by The Washington Post, found two weeks ago showed their preparations and illustrated some of its military capabilities. The manual, which was discovered on the body of a Hamas fighter, includes instructions on operating certain weapons, offers tips on how to kill with a knife and identifies vulnerabilities in Israeli military equipment. It appears that the document has been prepared for various units of Hamas’ Izzedine al-Qassam Brigades, which includes engineering, anti-armour, infantry, sniper and tunnel specialists along with what the booklet describes as “shock troops.” “This is a secret military document. It should be kept in a safe place. It is forbidden to move with it except when there are orders,” the first page stated. Watch | Israel-Palestine war | At least 55 dead as Israel steps up Gaza game The back cover of the document has the picture of Palestinian Sheikh Abdullah Azzam, a mentor of Osama bin Laden. “If this is their source of inspiration, and this is the figure, the symbol, they are looking at, I understand something more about their behaviour on Oct. 7,” stated Michael Milshtein, a former head of the Palestinian department in the Israeli military intelligence, while speaking to The Washington Post. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hamas had intentions of using 'chemical weapons' as part of 'terror attack': Report

President Joe Biden announced Friday that the United States has fully destroyed its decades-old stockpiles of chemical weapons, a milestone hailed as completing the elimination around the world of all known stores of the agents of mass death.

US destroys its last chemical weapons stockpile

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Without citing any evidence, US President Joe Biden claimed on Monday that Russian President Vladimir Putin is looking to use biological and chemical weapons in Ukraine invasion. &nbsp;

The accusations of Russia about Kyiv possessing these are false, said the US leader. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-invasion-triggers-patriotism-wave-in-ukraine-turns-inspiring-tattoos-billboards-popular-464172" hreflang="en">Russian invasion triggers patriotism wave in Ukraine, turns inspiring tattoos, billboards popular</a>

At a Business Roundtable event, Biden said, Putin's "back is against the wall and now he's talking about new false flags he's setting up including, asserting that we in America have biological as well as chemical weapons in Europe, simply not true." &nbsp;

"They are also suggesting that Ukraine has biological and chemical weapons in Ukraine. That's a clear sign he’s considering using both of those," added Biden, according to a Reuters report.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-heavy-bombardment-follows-mariupol-forced-to-bury-dead-on-roadside-in-makeshift-graves-464161" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine War: As heavy bombardment follows, Mariupol forced to bury dead on roadside in makeshift graves</a>

Earlier, several officials in Washington and allied countries have also accused Russia of spreading an unproven claim about Ukraine having a biological weapons programme as an excuse to potentially launch its own such attacks. &nbsp;

The defence ministry of Russia has accused Ukraine of looking to hold a chemical attack against its own people to accuse Moscow of using chemical weapons in the invasion. It has not supported its accusation with any evidence. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Without citing any evidence, US President Joe Biden claimed on Monday that Russian President Vladimir Putin is looking to use biological and chemical weapons in Ukraine invasion. The accusations of Russia about Kyiv possessing these are false, said the US leader. Also Read: Russian invasion triggers patriotism wave in Ukraine, turns inspiring tattoos, billboards popular At a Business Roundtable event, Biden said, Putin's "back is against the wall and now he's talking about new false flags he's setting up including, asserting that we in America have biological as well as chemical weapons in Europe, simply not true." "They are also suggesting that Ukraine has biological and chemical weapons in Ukraine. That's a clear sign he’s considering using both of those," added Biden, according to a Reuters report. Also Read: Russia-Ukraine War: As heavy bombardment follows, Mariupol forced to bury dead on roadside in makeshift graves Earlier, several officials in Washington and allied countries have also accused Russia of spreading an unproven claim about Ukraine having a biological weapons programme as an excuse to potentially launch its own such attacks. The defence ministry of Russia has accused Ukraine of looking to hold a chemical attack against its own people to accuse Moscow of using chemical weapons in the invasion. It has not supported its accusation with any evidence. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin looking to use biological, chemical weapons in Ukraine, Biden claims without proof

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has said that Russia can plan chemical weapons operations under the fabrication of lies about biological weapons laboratories.

"In recent days, we have heard absurd claims about chemical and biological weapons laboratories," Stoltenberg said in an interview with German newspaper Welt am Sonntag.

"Now that these false claims have been made, we must remain vigilant because it is possible that Russia itself could plan chemical weapons operations under this fabrication of lies. That would be a war crime," Stoltenberg was quoted as saying.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ramps-up-attacks-in-southern-ukraine-odessa-residents-fortify-city-461837/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He added that although the Ukrainian people were resisting the Russian invasion with courage, the coming days are likely to bring even greater hardship.

"We have a responsibility to prevent this conflict from escalating beyond Ukraine's borders to becoming a full-fledged war between Russia and NATO," the NATO chief said.

Stoltenberg said that the training of tens of thousands of Ukrainian troops by NATO member states in recent years, as well as the supply of military equipment, had proved "extremely important (for Ukraine's forces) in the fight against invading Russian forces".

But he added: "The most important thing is that President (Vladimir) Putin should end this senseless war," he said.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-does-aftermath-of-russian-invasion-look-like-for-ukraine-459414">What does aftermath of Russian invasion look like for Ukraine?</a>

"Withdraw all its forces and engage in good faith in diplomatic political efforts to find a political solution," said Stoltenberg.

Talks aimed at reaching a cease-fire again failed Saturday, and the US announced plans to provide another $200 million to Ukraine for weapons.&nbsp;

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov warned other nations that sending equipment to bolster Ukraine’s military was “an action that makes those convoys legitimate targets.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of trying to break his country apart, as well as starting “a new stage of terror” with the alleged detention of a mayor from a city west of Mariupol.

“Ukraine will stand this test. We need time and strength to break the war machine that has come to our land,” Zelensky said during his nightly address to the nation Saturday.

Zelensky said Saturday that Russians were using blackmail and bribery in an attempt to force local officials to form a “pseudo-republic” in the southern Kherson region, much like those in Donetsk and Luhansk, two eastern regions where pro-Russian separatists began fighting Ukrainian forces in 2014.

He again deplored NATO’s refusal to declare a no-fly zone over Ukraine and said Ukraine has sought ways to procure air defense assets, though he didn’t elaborate.

(With inputs from agencies)

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has said that Russia can plan chemical weapons operations under the fabrication of lies about biological weapons laboratories.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has said that Russia can plan chemical weapons operations under the fabrication of lies about biological weapons laboratories. "In recent days, we have heard absurd claims about chemical and biological weapons laboratories," Stoltenberg said in an interview with German newspaper Welt am Sonntag. "Now that these false claims have been made, we must remain vigilant because it is possible that Russia itself could plan chemical weapons operations under this fabrication of lies. That would be a war crime," Stoltenberg was quoted as saying. He added that although the Ukrainian people were resisting the Russian invasion with courage, the coming days are likely to bring even greater hardship. "We have a responsibility to prevent this conflict from escalating beyond Ukraine's borders to becoming a full-fledged war between Russia and NATO," the NATO chief said. Stoltenberg said that the training of tens of thousands of Ukrainian troops by NATO member states in recent years, as well as the supply of military equipment, had proved "extremely important (for Ukraine's forces) in the fight against invading Russian forces". But he added: "The most important thing is that President (Vladimir) Putin should end this senseless war," he said. Also see | What does aftermath of Russian invasion look like for Ukraine? "Withdraw all its forces and engage in good faith in diplomatic political efforts to find a political solution," said Stoltenberg. Talks aimed at reaching a cease-fire again failed Saturday, and the US announced plans to provide another $200 million to Ukraine for weapons. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov warned other nations that sending equipment to bolster Ukraine’s military was “an action that makes those convoys legitimate targets.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of trying to break his country apart, as well as starting “a new stage of terror” with the alleged detention of a mayor from a city west of Mariupol. “Ukraine will stand this test. We need time and strength to break the war machine that has come to our land,” Zelensky said during his nightly address to the nation Saturday. Zelensky said Saturday that Russians were using blackmail and bribery in an attempt to force local officials to form a “pseudo-republic” in the southern Kherson region, much like those in Donetsk and Luhansk, two eastern regions where pro-Russian separatists began fighting Ukrainian forces in 2014. He again deplored NATO’s refusal to declare a no-fly zone over Ukraine and said Ukraine has sought ways to procure air defense assets, though he didn’t elaborate. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia can plan chemical weapons operations behind lies about biological weapons laboratories: NATO

Syria was found to have used poison gas during its civil war on multiple occasions by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) on Wednesday.

Due to this, the country has been stripped of its voting rights by member states of the chemical weapons watchdog, immediately revoking the country’s privileges. 46 out of the 193 member countries initiated the proposal on the OPCW’s governing body - the Conference of State Parties which includes countries like United States, France, and Britain.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/chemical-weapons-watchdog-weighs-imposing-sanctions-on-syria-378833" hreflang="en">Chemical weapons watchdog weighs imposing sanctions on Syria</a>

The proposal was passed by 87 votes in favour and 15 against, effectively fulfilling the necessary two-thirds majority of votes. 34 countries were absent during the voting out of the 136 countries that took part. Russia, Syria, and Iran were among the countries to vote against the move.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/ngos-file-case-in-sweden-over-syrian-chemical-attacks-378845" hreflang="en">NGOs file case in Sweden over Syrian chemical attacks &nbsp;</a>

The 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention prohibits the use of all chemicals on the battlefield. Investigations undertaken by the United Nations and the OPCW’s Investigation and Identification Team (IIT) found that the Syrian government used sarin, a nerve agent and chlorine barrel bombs in attacks that took place between 2015-2018.&nbsp;

The attacks reportedly killed and injured thousands. Along with its ally Russia, Syria has denied using chemical weapons during the war.

(With inputs from agencies)

Syria was found to have used poison gas during its civil war on multiple occasions by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) on Wednesday.

Syria was found to have used poison gas during its civil war on multiple occasions by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) on Wednesday. Due to this, the country has been stripped of its voting rights by member states of the chemical weapons watchdog, immediately revoking the country’s privileges. 46 out of the 193 member countries initiated the proposal on the OPCW’s governing body - the Conference of State Parties which includes countries like United States, France, and Britain. Also read: Chemical weapons watchdog weighs imposing sanctions on Syria The proposal was passed by 87 votes in favour and 15 against, effectively fulfilling the necessary two-thirds majority of votes. 34 countries were absent during the voting out of the 136 countries that took part. Russia, Syria, and Iran were among the countries to vote against the move. Also read: NGOs file case in Sweden over Syrian chemical attacks The 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention prohibits the use of all chemicals on the battlefield. Investigations undertaken by the United Nations and the OPCW’s Investigation and Identification Team (IIT) found that the Syrian government used sarin, a nerve agent and chlorine barrel bombs in attacks that took place between 2015-2018. The attacks reportedly killed and injured thousands. Along with its ally Russia, Syria has denied using chemical weapons during the war. (With inputs from agencies)

Watchdog suspends Syria's rights over usage of chemical weapons during civil war

World powers urged the global chemical weapons watchdog on Tuesday to hit Syria with unprecedented sanctions for alleged toxic gas attacks and for failing to declare its arsenal. 
 
Syria faces the loss of its "rights and privileges" at the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) after a probe found it had carried out three attacks in 2017. 
 
The regulator's 193 member states are expected to vote on Wednesday on a proposal by France, backed by 46 countries, that would include freezing Syria's voting rights at the Netherlands-based body. 
 
Syria and its ally Russia dismissed the sanctions threat, accusing Western powers of using the Hague-based OPCW as a "propaganda tool" to undermine Damascus in its ten-year civil war. 
 
"We cannot let this tragedy go on for another decade," French OPCW ambassador Luis Vassy told the watchdog. 
 
"We find ourselves in an exceptional situation, which demands that we take action accordingly." 
 
It would be the first time a country had faced such punishment in the history of the OPCW, which was founded nearly a quarter of a century ago to rid the world of chemical weapons.

Sarin and chlorine 
The regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad agreed in 2013 to join the OPCW and give up all chemical weapons, following a suspected sarin nerve gas attack that killed 1,400 people in the Damascus suburb of Ghouta. 
 
But an OPCW investigation found in April last year that the Syrian air force was responsible for three attacks on the village of Lataminah in 2017 using sarin and chlorine gas. 
 
Damascus then failed to adhere to a 90-day deadline to declare the weapons used in the attacks, reveal its remaining stocks and comply with OPCW inspections. 
 
France in response submitted the motion calling for Syria to be punished. 
 
Pressure mounted on Damascus last week after a second OPCW investigation found a Syrian helicopter dropped a chlorine bomb on the rebel-held town of Saraqib in 2018. 
 
OPCW Director General Fernando Arias said on Tuesday that Syria's responses to questions about its chemical weapons still "cannot be considered accurate and complete" despite years of inspections. 
 
In the most recent example, the OPCW had opened a new inquiry after Damascus gave "insufficient" explanations for the discovery of chemicals in September 2020 at a site where it had denied making toxic arms. 
 
The UN recently said Damascus has for years not replied to a series of 19 questions about its weapons installations.

'Hostile agenda' 
Syria slammed the "pompous" French statement, likening the situation to the false allegations about weapons of mass destruction before the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. 
 
"We deny that we have ever used toxic gases," Syria's OPCW ambassador Rania Alrifaiy said. 
 
"I call on you to vote no, to reject the hostile agenda against Syria," she said. 
 
Russia also rejected the move to punish its ally. 
 
"This is very serious. We've never had this kind of a case before where a state party was deprived of their privileges and rights," Russian ambassador Alexander Shulgin said. 
 
France however said countries should not be "duped" by claims that Syria would be frozen out of the OPCW, and that Syria would still be able to speak there even though it could not vote. 
 
Moscow and Damascus allege the OPCW has become "politicised", especially since it gained new powers in 2018 to identify the perpetrators of attacks. Previously it could only say whether or not chemical arms had been used. 
 
Russia meanwhile also faces pressure at the OPCW over last year's Novichok nerve agent poisoning of opposition figure Alexei Navalny. 
 
The OPCW has been a backdrop for growing tensions between Russia and the West, with the Netherlands in 2018 expelling four alleged Russian spies whom it accused of trying to hack the watchdog's computers. 
 
The organisation won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013 for its work in destroying the world's stocks of chemical weapons.

World powers urged the global chemical weapons watchdog on Tuesday to hit Syria with unprecedented sanctions for alleged toxic gas attacks and for failing to declare its arsenal.

World powers urged the global chemical weapons watchdog on Tuesday to hit Syria with unprecedented sanctions for alleged toxic gas attacks and for failing to declare its arsenal. Syria faces the loss of its "rights and privileges" at the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) after a probe found it had carried out three attacks in 2017. The regulator's 193 member states are expected to vote on Wednesday on a proposal by France, backed by 46 countries, that would include freezing Syria's voting rights at the Netherlands-based body. Syria and its ally Russia dismissed the sanctions threat, accusing Western powers of using the Hague-based OPCW as a "propaganda tool" to undermine Damascus in its ten-year civil war. "We cannot let this tragedy go on for another decade," French OPCW ambassador Luis Vassy told the watchdog. "We find ourselves in an exceptional situation, which demands that we take action accordingly." It would be the first time a country had faced such punishment in the history of the OPCW, which was founded nearly a quarter of a century ago to rid the world of chemical weapons. Sarin and chlorine The regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad agreed in 2013 to join the OPCW and give up all chemical weapons, following a suspected sarin nerve gas attack that killed 1,400 people in the Damascus suburb of Ghouta. But an OPCW investigation found in April last year that the Syrian air force was responsible for three attacks on the village of Lataminah in 2017 using sarin and chlorine gas. Damascus then failed to adhere to a 90-day deadline to declare the weapons used in the attacks, reveal its remaining stocks and comply with OPCW inspections. France in response submitted the motion calling for Syria to be punished. Pressure mounted on Damascus last week after a second OPCW investigation found a Syrian helicopter dropped a chlorine bomb on the rebel-held town of Saraqib in 2018. OPCW Director General Fernando Arias said on Tuesday that Syria's responses to questions about its chemical weapons still "cannot be considered accurate and complete" despite years of inspections. In the most recent example, the OPCW had opened a new inquiry after Damascus gave "insufficient" explanations for the discovery of chemicals in September 2020 at a site where it had denied making toxic arms. The UN recently said Damascus has for years not replied to a series of 19 questions about its weapons installations. 'Hostile agenda' Syria slammed the "pompous" French statement, likening the situation to the false allegations about weapons of mass destruction before the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. "We deny that we have ever used toxic gases," Syria's OPCW ambassador Rania Alrifaiy said. "I call on you to vote no, to reject the hostile agenda against Syria," she said. Russia also rejected the move to punish its ally. "This is very serious. We've never had this kind of a case before where a state party was deprived of their privileges and rights," Russian ambassador Alexander Shulgin said. France however said countries should not be "duped" by claims that Syria would be frozen out of the OPCW, and that Syria would still be able to speak there even though it could not vote. Moscow and Damascus allege the OPCW has become "politicised", especially since it gained new powers in 2018 to identify the perpetrators of attacks. Previously it could only say whether or not chemical arms had been used. Russia meanwhile also faces pressure at the OPCW over last year's Novichok nerve agent poisoning of opposition figure Alexei Navalny. The OPCW has been a backdrop for growing tensions between Russia and the West, with the Netherlands in 2018 expelling four alleged Russian spies whom it accused of trying to hack the watchdog's computers. The organisation won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013 for its work in destroying the world's stocks of chemical weapons.

Chemical weapons watchdog weighs imposing sanctions on Syria

Myanmar is in breach of a global convention banning chemical weapons and may have a stockpile leftover from the 1980s, the United States said on Monday.

The southeast Asian nation may still have weapons at a "historic" facility where mustard gas was produced, a senior State Department official told the annual meeting of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.

Myanmar officially joined the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), which bans the production, storage and use of chemical arms, in 2015.

"The US has serious concerns that a chemical weapons stockpile may remain at Myanmar's historical chemical weapons facility," Thomas DiNanno, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, told the OPCW in The Hague.

Washington had information that Myanmar "had a chemical weapons programme in the 1980s that included a sulphur mustard development programme and chemical weapons production facility", he added.

"Based on available information, the United States certifies that Myanmar is in non-compliance with the CWC, due to its failure to declare its past chemical weapons programme and to destroy its chemical weapons facility."

Myanmar has previously faced accusations of storing and using such weapons.

In 2013, a parliamentary report said police had used phosphorus the previous year against protesters at a copper mine in the north of the country, causing severe burns.

In July 2014, five journalists from Myanmar were sentenced to 10 years in prison with hard labour over an article accusing the military of producing chemical arms.

The previous year, Myanmar's then quasi-civilian government denied using chemical weapons against rebels from the Kachin ethnic minority during clashes in the north of the country.

The US official said Washington had held talks with Myanmar's civilian government and military over the issue and "stands ready to assist Myanmar" to destroy the weapons.

Myanmar was the 191st State Party to the Chemical Weapons Convention, which came into force in 1997 and is monitored by the OPCW for compliance.

In 2005, London-based rights group Christian Solidarity Worldwide accused the former military junta of using chemical weapons against rebels from the Karen community.

The US allegation comes as Myanmar faces growing international legal pressure over its treatment of another minority -- the Muslim Rohingya, thousands of whom were forced to flee to Bangladesh in a huge military operation in 2017.

Civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi is due to travel to the International Court of Justice in The Hague in December to lead the defence in a genocide case against Myanmar.

Myanmar is in breach of a global convention banning chemical weapons and may have a stockpile leftover from the 1980s, the United States said on Monday. The southeast Asian nation may still have weapons at a "historic" facility where mustard gas was produced, a senior State Department official told the annual meeting of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.

Myanmar is in breach of a global convention banning chemical weapons and may have a stockpile leftover from the 1980s, the United States said on Monday. The southeast Asian nation may still have weapons at a "historic" facility where mustard gas was produced, a senior State Department official told the annual meeting of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. Myanmar officially joined the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), which bans the production, storage and use of chemical arms, in 2015. "The US has serious concerns that a chemical weapons stockpile may remain at Myanmar's historical chemical weapons facility," Thomas DiNanno, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, told the OPCW in The Hague. Washington had information that Myanmar "had a chemical weapons programme in the 1980s that included a sulphur mustard development programme and chemical weapons production facility", he added. "Based on available information, the United States certifies that Myanmar is in non-compliance with the CWC, due to its failure to declare its past chemical weapons programme and to destroy its chemical weapons facility." Myanmar has previously faced accusations of storing and using such weapons. In 2013, a parliamentary report said police had used phosphorus the previous year against protesters at a copper mine in the north of the country, causing severe burns. In July 2014, five journalists from Myanmar were sentenced to 10 years in prison with hard labour over an article accusing the military of producing chemical arms. The previous year, Myanmar's then quasi-civilian government denied using chemical weapons against rebels from the Kachin ethnic minority during clashes in the north of the country. The US official said Washington had held talks with Myanmar's civilian government and military over the issue and "stands ready to assist Myanmar" to destroy the weapons. Myanmar was the 191st State Party to the Chemical Weapons Convention, which came into force in 1997 and is monitored by the OPCW for compliance. In 2005, London-based rights group Christian Solidarity Worldwide accused the former military junta of using chemical weapons against rebels from the Karen community. The US allegation comes as Myanmar faces growing international legal pressure over its treatment of another minority -- the Muslim Rohingya, thousands of whom were forced to flee to Bangladesh in a huge military operation in 2017. Civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi is due to travel to the International Court of Justice in The Hague in December to lead the defence in a genocide case against Myanmar.

Myanmar may have chemical weapons stockpile: US

Kurds Allege Use Of White Phosphorus By Turkey. Chemical weapons are back in the news. Kurds have alleged that Turkey used burning White Phosphorus against Children in Syria last week

Gravitas: Kurds Accuse Turkey Of Using Chemical Weapons

Chemical Warfare: A Threat To Humanity For nearly a century, the world has been fighting to eliminate the use of chemical weapons.

WION Edit: Use Of Chemical Weapons: No Accountability & No Punishment?

Did Turkey use chemical weapons against the Kurds in Syria? A video of a boy suffering skin burns emerges from Syria. Watch this video to know more.

Did Turkey do the unthinkable in Syria?

For nearly a century, the world has only been trying to eliminate chemical weapons. The Geneva Convention of 1925 prohibited the use of such weapons, but not the production or storage.

That changed in the last decade of the previous century. In 1992, a convention banned the storage and production too. This convention came into force five years later.

Since then, 193 countries have acceded to the convention and the organisation for the prohibition of chemical weapons, OPCW has been tasked with inspecting the presence of such weapons.

With regard to Syria, the OPCW even won the Nobel Peace Prize for its work in eliminating chemical weapons in 2013. Six years later, there is no accountability or punishment for countries flouting the convention.

How do they get away with it? On WION Edit, we explore this specific question. There are three categories of chemical weapons.

Among the states which possess category 1 weapons, the US is yet to destroy its chemical weapons. Russia says it has destroyed its weapons in 2017, but the Salisbury attacks took place in 2018. This says a lot about Russia.

Put simply, the two major military heavyweights continue to flout the rules. This makes other countries to follow suit too.

Syria has a dodgy record with chemical weapons. Since the involvement of Russia in the Syrian crisis in 2015, dozens of chemical attacks have been recorded by none other than OPCW.

And the effectiveness of chemical weapons encourages its continued use. This is a persistent danger, it's time to review the charter of OPCW.

The chemical weapons convention seems too weak to handle this threat. Ineffective penalties have only intensified the problem. Escalating the issue at UNGA or UNSC is not going to be the deterrent.&nbsp;

Over the last fifty to sixty years, the use of chemical weapons has been a recurring theme in every conflict. These weapons were reported to have been used in the Vietnam war, then it was in the news again after the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, Rhodesia, Angola, Iran-Iraq war, Iraq attacks on Kurds in 1988, Gulf War, and now Syria.

Unless the big fish, the US and Russia are compelled to abide by these conventions in letter and spirit, this situation is unlikely to change.

And, the Nobel Peace Prize to OPCW will mean next to nothing if the weapons are not abolished altogether. Stringent punishment is absolutely necessary and trade sanctions won't be enough.

The world simply cannot look away silently every time this horror is unleashed- because chemical warfare is a brutal war against humanity. 
&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

For nearly a century, the world has only been trying to eliminate chemical weapons. The Geneva Convention of 1925 prohibited the use of such weapons, but not the production or storage.

For nearly a century, the world has only been trying to eliminate chemical weapons. The Geneva Convention of 1925 prohibited the use of such weapons, but not the production or storage. That changed in the last decade of the previous century. In 1992, a convention banned the storage and production too. This convention came into force five years later. Since then, 193 countries have acceded to the convention and the organisation for the prohibition of chemical weapons, OPCW has been tasked with inspecting the presence of such weapons. With regard to Syria, the OPCW even won the Nobel Peace Prize for its work in eliminating chemical weapons in 2013. Six years later, there is no accountability or punishment for countries flouting the convention. How do they get away with it? On WION Edit, we explore this specific question. There are three categories of chemical weapons. Among the states which possess category 1 weapons, the US is yet to destroy its chemical weapons. Russia says it has destroyed its weapons in 2017, but the Salisbury attacks took place in 2018. This says a lot about Russia. Put simply, the two major military heavyweights continue to flout the rules. This makes other countries to follow suit too. Syria has a dodgy record with chemical weapons. Since the involvement of Russia in the Syrian crisis in 2015, dozens of chemical attacks have been recorded by none other than OPCW. And the effectiveness of chemical weapons encourages its continued use. This is a persistent danger, it's time to review the charter of OPCW. The chemical weapons convention seems too weak to handle this threat. Ineffective penalties have only intensified the problem. Escalating the issue at UNGA or UNSC is not going to be the deterrent. Over the last fifty to sixty years, the use of chemical weapons has been a recurring theme in every conflict. These weapons were reported to have been used in the Vietnam war, then it was in the news again after the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, Rhodesia, Angola, Iran-Iraq war, Iraq attacks on Kurds in 1988, Gulf War, and now Syria. Unless the big fish, the US and Russia are compelled to abide by these conventions in letter and spirit, this situation is unlikely to change. And, the Nobel Peace Prize to OPCW will mean next to nothing if the weapons are not abolished altogether. Stringent punishment is absolutely necessary and trade sanctions won't be enough. The world simply cannot look away silently every time this horror is unleashed- because chemical warfare is a brutal war against humanity. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Chemical warfare a brutal war against humanity

Dutch intelligence thwarted a Russian cyber attack targeting the global chemical weapons watchdog in April and expelled four Russian agents, the government said Thursday.

The Russians set up a car full of electronic equipment in the car park of a hotel next to the Organisation for the Prohibition for Chemical Weapons in The Hague in a bid to hack its computer system, it said.

"The Dutch government finds the involvement of these intelligence operatives extremely worrisome," Dutch Defence Minister Ank Bijleveld told a news conference.&nbsp;

"Normally we don't reveal this type of counter-intelligence operation."

The Netherlands publicly identified the alleged Russian agents and said the operation was carried out by Russia's GRU military intelligence agency, Dutch officials said.

Britain helped the Netherlands with the operation, they added.

A laptop belonging to one of the four was linked to Brazil, Switzerland and Malaysia. The activities in Malaysia were related to the investigation into the 2014 shooting down of flight MH17 over Ukraine, Bijleveld added.

Dutch intelligence thwarted a Russian cyber attack targeting the global chemical weapons watchdog in April and expelled four Russian agents, the government said Thursday.

Dutch intelligence thwarted a Russian cyber attack targeting the global chemical weapons watchdog in April and expelled four Russian agents, the government said Thursday. The Russians set up a car full of electronic equipment in the car park of a hotel next to the Organisation for the Prohibition for Chemical Weapons in The Hague in a bid to hack its computer system, it said. "The Dutch government finds the involvement of these intelligence operatives extremely worrisome," Dutch Defence Minister Ank Bijleveld told a news conference. "Normally we don't reveal this type of counter-intelligence operation." The Netherlands publicly identified the alleged Russian agents and said the operation was carried out by Russia's GRU military intelligence agency, Dutch officials said. Britain helped the Netherlands with the operation, they added. A laptop belonging to one of the four was linked to Brazil, Switzerland and Malaysia. The activities in Malaysia were related to the investigation into the 2014 shooting down of flight MH17 over Ukraine, Bijleveld added.

Four Russians agents expelled for cyber attack: Dutch intelligence

Experts from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) on Saturday visited one of the sites in Douma, Syria, where a chemical attack allegedly took place on April 7 to collect samples for analysis.

In a statement, the OPCW said it would now evaluate and consider whether the team needs to make a second visit to Douma. 
Samples will be transported back to the Netherlands and onward to the organisation's network of designated labs for analysis. 
Based on the analysis of the sample results as well other information and materials collected by the team, the mission would compile a report and submit it to the organisation`s member states, the statement said.

The OPCW has been investigating the use of toxic chemicals in Syria`s civil war since 2014. Inspectors had been trying to reach Douma for several days but were delayed after an advance security detail was fired upon on April 17.

The OPCW team will attempt to determine whether chemical weapons were used and if so, which. It is not mandated to conclude which side in the conflict used them.

The town of Douma was, at the time of the attack, under rebel control and facing a ferocious government air and ground assault. Militants gave up the town days after the alleged attack, which killed more than 40 people.&nbsp;

The US, France, and Britain blamed the Syrian government and struck suspected Syrian chemical weapons facilities one week later.&nbsp;

Images that emerged from Douma in the hours after the attack showed lifeless bodies collapsed in crowded rooms, some with foam around their noses and mouths. Thousands of people — rebels and civilians — left Douma on buses to north Syria in the days afterwards, believing they could not reconcile with the government after it took over the town. North Syria is divided between opposition, Turkish, and al-Qaida control.

The evacuations were the latest in a string of population transfers around the Syrian capital that have displaced more than 60,000 people as the government reconsolidates control after seven years of civil war.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

International chemical weapons experts have finally inspected the site of a suspected attack near Damascus which caused an international crisis.

Experts from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) on Saturday visited one of the sites in Douma, Syria, where a chemical attack allegedly took place on April 7 to collect samples for analysis. In a statement, the OPCW said it would now evaluate and consider whether the team needs to make a second visit to Douma. Samples will be transported back to the Netherlands and onward to the organisation's network of designated labs for analysis. Based on the analysis of the sample results as well other information and materials collected by the team, the mission would compile a report and submit it to the organisation`s member states, the statement said. The OPCW has been investigating the use of toxic chemicals in Syria`s civil war since 2014. Inspectors had been trying to reach Douma for several days but were delayed after an advance security detail was fired upon on April 17. The OPCW team will attempt to determine whether chemical weapons were used and if so, which. It is not mandated to conclude which side in the conflict used them. The town of Douma was, at the time of the attack, under rebel control and facing a ferocious government air and ground assault. Militants gave up the town days after the alleged attack, which killed more than 40 people. The US, France, and Britain blamed the Syrian government and struck suspected Syrian chemical weapons facilities one week later. Images that emerged from Douma in the hours after the attack showed lifeless bodies collapsed in crowded rooms, some with foam around their noses and mouths. Thousands of people — rebels and civilians — left Douma on buses to north Syria in the days afterwards, believing they could not reconcile with the government after it took over the town. North Syria is divided between opposition, Turkish, and al-Qaida control. The evacuations were the latest in a string of population transfers around the Syrian capital that have displaced more than 60,000 people as the government reconsolidates control after seven years of civil war. (With inputs from Agencies)

Chemical weapon experts of OPCW visit site of alleged chemical attack in Syria's Douma

The aftermath of US and its ally's action of claiming to have targeted Syrian Chemical weapon related establishments, and taught a lesson to Syria is full of contradictions and conflicting news from its intent to actions.

The US President may claim it to be a 'Mission Accomplished' but was it an accomplishment of any sort, without UN sanction or a debate in US Congress? Was it an effort of concerned players to show Russia and Syria in poor light, besides threatening them?

The US President may find it difficult to convince its Congressmen, opposing citizens and rest of the world. Controversies like Mattis wanted Congress to be informed before strikes, but was over-ruled, Nikki Haley wanted tougher sanctions on Russia but it was not implemented, indicate that all were not on the same page regarding this action.

Was it a plan executed by US President to divert domestic attention from the controversy over alleged Russian meddling in US elections to favor him? How could two specific US allies agree to President Trump's plan knowing well that neither Assad will quit nor Russia will give a walk over only by missile strikes?

If missile attack in 2017 on Syria did not achieve anything, then how US and allies were convinced that it will achieve anything in 2018? There is also a wide variation in the description of damages inflicted by US and Syrians.

On the other side also there are many controversies, which will find answers in times to come. Did Syria actually use chemical weapons against its countrymen or was it a story built over a period by the US and its allies, who want to change Assad regime and push Russia out of the region?

Was the double agent killed by nerve agent of Russia or planted by someone else? If chemical weapons/nerve agents were used then the culprit nation/organisation is shame on humanity and needs to be condemned by the global community.

The controversy is that Assad denies the use of chemical weapons based on simple logic that there was no need for Syria to use chemical agents when they were already nearing victory in that area? Similarly, Russians also deny any such attack because nothing very much was at stake in a besieged dilapidated township with militants holed up.

At the same time, the US and its allies are very confident of possession and use of chemical weapons by Syria. The recent media reports of three Belgium companies accused of supplying heavy amount of chemicals, which can be used for manufacturing deadly sarin nerve agent is a new revelation, to which Assad was quick to blame anti-government groups of such possible involvement/use of chemical weapons.

While the US and allies hold Syria and Russia for a delay in investigations and allege that the evidences would have been tampered by them, whereas Russia blames untimely US attack as the cause of the delay. With such controversies, the question is that can OPCW findings be relied upon or can they be manipulated?

Even some of the Russian actions seem controversial. How did such a magnitude of attack not cause a single casualty to Russians troops or equipment, if the US claims it did not inform Russians in advance? If Russians were informed, it is likely that they would have informed the Syrians, because they also claim not to have lost any troops or equipment, and claim that the attacks caused damage to few buildings and civilian casualties, then the whole operation raises a doubt about its credibility in the mind of an analyst?

If this operation was like a Hollywood drama as commented by some, then how could Russia and Syria agree to it? Russians knew it fully well that any UNSC resolution against the three participating countries having veto powers who took part in operations had to be defeated, still went for it.

Was it to convince that they explored all peaceful means of retaliation before going in for some other means in current spectrum of warfare, which is not limited to only conventional domain only? Does Russian and Iranian threat to retaliate is eyewash or it has some potential to make subsequent events dangerous.

There is another angle to read this event. After the release of National Security Strategy of US, which indirectly brands Russia, China, Iran and North Korea as a threat, the signaling to embarrass Russia can be a messaging for China and North Korea prior to the meeting of Kim. Notwithstanding the claims and counterclaims few points which emerge out are:-

-The action did not help innocents in Syria in any way. The action continues to be marred by controversies.

-It would have given joy to ISIS and other militants, observing countries who were chasing them fighting amongst each other and are diverting from goal to get into their power-politics in the region.

-It does not guarantee non-use of chemical agents unless it is established who the culprit was, and was the use accidental or deliberate?

-The attackers may not be able to avoid criticism and suspicions even in the domestic constituency.

-Russia may have additional pressure to prove the credibility of its threat, before being branded as fading power, if they were not part of this suspected drama. It may show its strength in cyber or other domains.

-The use of chemical weapons is inhumane, but the reality is that such stockpiles exist and can be used. Its proliferation to militants is easier than nukes hence the world has another dimension of terrorism to worry.

-The countries not involved in this power-play like India will like the grip of militants like IS should not be loosened and humanity must be protected from chemical weapons, besides calling for peaceful resolution of the controversy.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

How did such a magnitude of attack not cause a single casualty to Russians troops or equipment, if the US claims it did not inform Russians in advance?

The aftermath of US and its ally's action of claiming to have targeted Syrian Chemical weapon related establishments, and taught a lesson to Syria is full of contradictions and conflicting news from its intent to actions. The US President may claim it to be a 'Mission Accomplished' but was it an accomplishment of any sort, without UN sanction or a debate in US Congress? Was it an effort of concerned players to show Russia and Syria in poor light, besides threatening them? The US President may find it difficult to convince its Congressmen, opposing citizens and rest of the world. Controversies like Mattis wanted Congress to be informed before strikes, but was over-ruled, Nikki Haley wanted tougher sanctions on Russia but it was not implemented, indicate that all were not on the same page regarding this action. Was it a plan executed by US President to divert domestic attention from the controversy over alleged Russian meddling in US elections to favor him? How could two specific US allies agree to President Trump's plan knowing well that neither Assad will quit nor Russia will give a walk over only by missile strikes? If missile attack in 2017 on Syria did not achieve anything, then how US and allies were convinced that it will achieve anything in 2018? There is also a wide variation in the description of damages inflicted by US and Syrians. On the other side also there are many controversies, which will find answers in times to come. Did Syria actually use chemical weapons against its countrymen or was it a story built over a period by the US and its allies, who want to change Assad regime and push Russia out of the region? Was the double agent killed by nerve agent of Russia or planted by someone else? If chemical weapons/nerve agents were used then the culprit nation/organisation is shame on humanity and needs to be condemned by the global community. The controversy is that Assad denies the use of chemical weapons based on simple logic that there was no need for Syria to use chemical agents when they were already nearing victory in that area? Similarly, Russians also deny any such attack because nothing very much was at stake in a besieged dilapidated township with militants holed up. At the same time, the US and its allies are very confident of possession and use of chemical weapons by Syria. The recent media reports of three Belgium companies accused of supplying heavy amount of chemicals, which can be used for manufacturing deadly sarin nerve agent is a new revelation, to which Assad was quick to blame anti-government groups of such possible involvement/use of chemical weapons. While the US and allies hold Syria and Russia for a delay in investigations and allege that the evidences would have been tampered by them, whereas Russia blames untimely US attack as the cause of the delay. With such controversies, the question is that can OPCW findings be relied upon or can they be manipulated? Even some of the Russian actions seem controversial. How did such a magnitude of attack not cause a single casualty to Russians troops or equipment, if the US claims it did not inform Russians in advance? If Russians were informed, it is likely that they would have informed the Syrians, because they also claim not to have lost any troops or equipment, and claim that the attacks caused damage to few buildings and civilian casualties, then the whole operation raises a doubt about its credibility in the mind of an analyst? If this operation was like a Hollywood drama as commented by some, then how could Russia and Syria agree to it? Russians knew it fully well that any UNSC resolution against the three participating countries having veto powers who took part in operations had to be defeated, still went for it. Was it to convince that they explored all peaceful means of retaliation before going in for some other means in current spectrum of warfare, which is not limited to only conventional domain only? Does Russian and Iranian threat to retaliate is eyewash or it has some potential to make subsequent events dangerous. There is another angle to read this event. After the release of National Security Strategy of US, which indirectly brands Russia, China, Iran and North Korea as a threat, the signaling to embarrass Russia can be a messaging for China and North Korea prior to the meeting of Kim. Notwithstanding the claims and counterclaims few points which emerge out are:- -The action did not help innocents in Syria in any way. The action continues to be marred by controversies. -It would have given joy to ISIS and other militants, observing countries who were chasing them fighting amongst each other and are diverting from goal to get into their power-politics in the region. -It does not guarantee non-use of chemical agents unless it is established who the culprit was, and was the use accidental or deliberate? -The attackers may not be able to avoid criticism and suspicions even in the domestic constituency. -Russia may have additional pressure to prove the credibility of its threat, before being branded as fading power, if they were not part of this suspected drama. It may show its strength in cyber or other domains. -The use of chemical weapons is inhumane, but the reality is that such stockpiles exist and can be used. Its proliferation to militants is easier than nukes hence the world has another dimension of terrorism to worry. -The countries not involved in this power-play like India will like the grip of militants like IS should not be loosened and humanity must be protected from chemical weapons, besides calling for peaceful resolution of the controversy. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Aftermath of US missiles attack on Syria — Is it really 'mission accomplished'?

An official spokesperson of Indian Foreign ministry said on Saturday that India forbids the use of chemical weapons on anyone, by anybody under any circumstances.&nbsp

Raveesh Kumar, while addressing a conference in New Delhi made the remarks referring to reports of an alleged chemical poison gas attack on April 07 (Saturday) on the suburb of Douma in Syria which killed around 70. According to a report from World Health Organization, the victims showed symptoms, of being exposed to highly toxic chemicals, like redness in eyes, breathing problems, and white foam coming out of their mouths and nostrils.

A statement to this effect was made by India's Ambassador to The Netherlands and Permanent Representative of India to OPCW Venu Rajamony at the 58th Meeting of the Executive Council of the OPCW that was convened last week to discuss allegations regarding the use of chemical weapons in Douma, Syria.

He said any use of chemical weapons is in complete disregard of humanity and is reprehensible and contrary to the provisions of the Chemical Weapons Convention as well as accepted international norms.

He commended the OPCW for its prompt deployment of the Fact Finding Mission to Douma and expressed appreciation to the Director General and OPCW staff for their commitment to the aims and work of the organization often in challenging circumstances.

US and its western allies are discussing possible military action to rid Syria of dictator Bashar-al Assad for a suspected poison gas attack on a rebel-held town that long had held out against government forces. However, both Russia and Assad have denied any such attacks made by either of them.

When asked about the telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Putin amid the Mideast crisis, Kumar said that all matters of mutual interest were discussed on the phone call on Wednesday (April 11).

Meanwhile, India is also looking forward to arrest billionaire diamond trader, Nirav Modi, key accused of a $2 billion bank loan fraud. Kumar said that the accused has been located in Hong Kong and India is awaiting the response of its neighbour government over his arrest. India and Hong Kong had signed an agreement on the arrest of fugitive offenders in 1997.

(With inputs from Reuters) 
&nbsp

US and its western allies are discussing possible military action to rid Syria of dictator Bashar-al Assad for a suspected poison gas attack on a rebel-held town that long had held out against government forces

An official spokesperson of Indian Foreign ministry said on Saturday that India forbids the use of chemical weapons on anyone, by anybody under any circumstances. Raveesh Kumar, while addressing a conference in New Delhi made the remarks referring to reports of an alleged chemical poison gas attack on April 07 (Saturday) on the suburb of Douma in Syria which killed around 70. According to a report from World Health Organization, the victims showed symptoms, of being exposed to highly toxic chemicals, like redness in eyes, breathing problems, and white foam coming out of their mouths and nostrils. A statement to this effect was made by India's Ambassador to The Netherlands and Permanent Representative of India to OPCW Venu Rajamony at the 58th Meeting of the Executive Council of the OPCW that was convened last week to discuss allegations regarding the use of chemical weapons in Douma, Syria. He said any use of chemical weapons is in complete disregard of humanity and is reprehensible and contrary to the provisions of the Chemical Weapons Convention as well as accepted international norms. He commended the OPCW for its prompt deployment of the Fact Finding Mission to Douma and expressed appreciation to the Director General and OPCW staff for their commitment to the aims and work of the organization often in challenging circumstances. US and its western allies are discussing possible military action to rid Syria of dictator Bashar-al Assad for a suspected poison gas attack on a rebel-held town that long had held out against government forces. However, both Russia and Assad have denied any such attacks made by either of them. When asked about the telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Putin amid the Mideast crisis, Kumar said that all matters of mutual interest were discussed on the phone call on Wednesday (April 11). Meanwhile, India is also looking forward to arrest billionaire diamond trader, Nirav Modi, key accused of a $2 billion bank loan fraud. Kumar said that the accused has been located in Hong Kong and India is awaiting the response of its neighbour government over his arrest. India and Hong Kong had signed an agreement on the arrest of fugitive offenders in 1997. (With inputs from Reuters)

India against chemical weapons in any circumstances, says foreign ministry on Syria

Russia will screen a Syrian child's interview before the UN in defence of its claim that the chemical attack carried out in Douma, Syria was a hoax.

Russia claims that the child was made to pose as a victim of chemical weapons in Syria. A subtitled version of the report has already been submitted to the UN, Russian ambassador to UN&nbsp;Vasilly Nebenza shared.&nbsp;

A state-owned Russian television telecast the 11-year-old child's interview on Wednesday. Russian officials claim that the atrocity was staged by a civil defence organisation called the 'white helmets'.&nbsp;

US-led air strikes jolted Syria over Assad's chemical weapons installation last week. A Western attack on Syria hit a scientific research facility in Damascus and Syrian army depots in the Homs area, state media said, and a witness said the Syrian capital was rocked by explosions as smoke rose into the sky.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said a second research facility was also struck in Damascus, in addition to a third in the Homs area, and five military bases and depots used by elite army divisions in the Mezzeh area of Damascus. 
&nbsp;

Russia claims that the child was made to pose as a victim of chemical weapons in Syria

Russia will screen a Syrian child's interview before the UN in defence of its claim that the chemical attack carried out in Douma, Syria was a hoax. Russia claims that the child was made to pose as a victim of chemical weapons in Syria. A subtitled version of the report has already been submitted to the UN, Russian ambassador to UN Vasilly Nebenza shared. A state-owned Russian television telecast the 11-year-old child's interview on Wednesday. Russian officials claim that the atrocity was staged by a civil defence organisation called the 'white helmets'. US-led air strikes jolted Syria over Assad's chemical weapons installation last week. A Western attack on Syria hit a scientific research facility in Damascus and Syrian army depots in the Homs area, state media said, and a witness said the Syrian capital was rocked by explosions as smoke rose into the sky. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said a second research facility was also struck in Damascus, in addition to a third in the Homs area, and five military bases and depots used by elite army divisions in the Mezzeh area of Damascus.

Child's interview before UN will prove Douma chemical attack was 'staged': Russia

According to reports, three Belgian countries have been accused of exporting chemicals to Syria. The trial date has already been set by a Belgian court.&nbsp

Chemicals exported include isopropanol which is also known to be used for producing nerve gas.

The case is likely to commence on May 15 in Antwerp, Belgium and will have under purview the export of several chemical substances between 2014 and 2016 to Lebanon and Syria.

Chemical group AAE Chemie along with two handling agents, Danmar Logistics and Anex Customs, are accused of making the exports.&nbsp

President Bashar al-Assad-led government is accused by the West of using chemical weapons against its own population, particularly during the most recent offensive on Douma. The Syrian government denies any such allegations.&nbsp

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp

The case is likely to commence on May 15 in Antwerp, Belgium

According to reports, three Belgian countries have been accused of exporting chemicals to Syria. The trial date has already been set by a Belgian court. Chemicals exported include isopropanol which is also known to be used for producing nerve gas. The case is likely to commence on May 15 in Antwerp, Belgium and will have under purview the export of several chemical substances between 2014 and 2016 to Lebanon and Syria. Chemical group AAE Chemie along with two handling agents, Danmar Logistics and Anex Customs, are accused of making the exports. President Bashar al-Assad-led government is accused by the West of using chemical weapons against its own population, particularly during the most recent offensive on Douma. The Syrian government denies any such allegations. (With inputs from Reuters)

3 Belgian companies face heat over chemical exports to Syria

The head of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons said on Wednesday that a UN&nbsp;security team doing reconnaissance in Douma, Syria came under gunfire a day earlier, sources told Reuters.

OPCW Director-General Ahmet Üzümcü told a meeting at the organisation's headquarters in The Hague that the security team was forced to withdraw, delaying the arrival of chemical weapons inspectors due to visit the site.

Sources present at the closed-door meeting briefed Reuters on Üzümcü's remarks.

The security team was forced to withdraw, delaying the arrival of chemical weapons inspectors due to visit the site

The head of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons said on Wednesday that a UN security team doing reconnaissance in Douma, Syria came under gunfire a day earlier, sources told Reuters. OPCW Director-General Ahmet Üzümcü told a meeting at the organisation's headquarters in The Hague that the security team was forced to withdraw, delaying the arrival of chemical weapons inspectors due to visit the site. Sources present at the closed-door meeting briefed Reuters on Üzümcü's remarks.

UN security team was shot at in Douma: Head of chemical weapons watchdog

Global chemical weapons inspectors finally reached the Syrian town on Tuesday where a suspected poison gas attack took place, days after the United States, Britain and France launched missile strikes to punish Damascus for it.

Syrian state television reported that the experts from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons(OPCW) had entered Douma, where Western countries say scores of civilians sheltering from bombs were gassed to death on April 7.

France said it was very likely that evidence of the poison gas attack was disappearing before the inspectors could reach the site. Syria and its ally Russia deny that any chemical attack took place.

Douma is now in the hands of government forces after the last rebels withdrew just hours after US, French and British forces fired more than 100 missiles to hit three suspected chemical weapons development or storage sites.

Saturday's air strikes were the first coordinated Western strikes against Assad's government in a seven-year war that has killed more than 500,000 people and drawn in global powers and neighbouring states.

The intervention threatened to escalate confrontation between the West and Russia but has had no significant impact on the ground, where President Bashar al-Assad is now in his strongest position since the war's early days and shows no sign of slowing down his campaign to crush the rebellion.

The Syrian army began preparatory shelling on Tuesday for an assault on the last area outside its control near Damascus, a commander in the pro-government alliance said.

Recovering the Yarmouk camp and neighbouring areas south of the city would give Assad complete control over Syria's capital. Yarmouk, Syria's biggest camp for Palestinian refugees, has been under the control of Islamic State fighters for years. Although most residents have fled, the United Nations says several thousand remain.

Assad has benefited from Russian air power since 2015 to regain large swathes of Syria. The suspected poison gas attack creates a conundrum for Western powers, who are determined to punish Assad for using chemical weapons but have no strategy for the sort of sustained intervention that might damage him.

Damascus and Moscow have broadcast statements from hospital workers in Douma - which medical aid groups operating in rebel areas have dismissed as propaganda - saying that no chemical attack took place.

Syrian state media reported that missiles had again targeted an airbase overnight, but the commander in the regional military alliance backing the government, speaking on condition of anonymity, later told Reuters it was a false alarm.

The commander said the new offensive would target Islamic State and Nusra Front militants in Yarmouk camp and al-Hajar al-Aswad district. Rebels in the adjoining Beit Sahm area had agreed to withdraw on buses, he said.

A government media tour on Monday of Douma, the biggest town in the former rebel enclave of eastern Ghouta just outside Damascus, revealed severe destruction and the plight of residents who had survived years of siege.

The assault on eastern Ghouta began in February and ended in government victory on Saturday when rebels withdrew from the town. All the rebel groups controlling areas of eastern Ghouta eventually agreed to surrender deals that involved withdrawal to opposition-held areas of northwestern Syria.

After the recapture of eastern Ghouta, Assad still has several smaller pockets of ground to recover from rebels, as well as two major areas they hold in the northwest and southwest.

Besides the pocket south of Damascus, rebels still hold besieged enclaves in the town of Dumayr northeast of Damascus, in the Eastern Qalamoun mountains nearby, and around Rastan north of Homs.

The pro-government commander said the army had prepared for military action in the Eastern Qalamoun, but that Russia was working on securing the rebels' withdrawal without a battle. State television said on Tuesday that rebels in Dumayr had also agreed to withdraw.

In Idlib in northwest Syria, the largest area still held by rebels, a government assault could bring Damascus into a confrontation with Turkey, which has set up a string of military observation posts in the area.

Ali Akbar Velayati, a top Iranian official, said during a visit to Damascus last week that he hoped the army would soon regain Idlib and areas of eastern Syria now held by an alliance of Kurdish and Arab militias backed by Washington.

A government media tour on Monday of Douma revealed severe destruction and the plight of residents who had survived years of siege.

Global chemical weapons inspectors finally reached the Syrian town on Tuesday where a suspected poison gas attack took place, days after the United States, Britain and France launched missile strikes to punish Damascus for it. Syrian state television reported that the experts from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons(OPCW) had entered Douma, where Western countries say scores of civilians sheltering from bombs were gassed to death on April 7. France said it was very likely that evidence of the poison gas attack was disappearing before the inspectors could reach the site. Syria and its ally Russia deny that any chemical attack took place. Douma is now in the hands of government forces after the last rebels withdrew just hours after US, French and British forces fired more than 100 missiles to hit three suspected chemical weapons development or storage sites. Saturday's air strikes were the first coordinated Western strikes against Assad's government in a seven-year war that has killed more than 500,000 people and drawn in global powers and neighbouring states. The intervention threatened to escalate confrontation between the West and Russia but has had no significant impact on the ground, where President Bashar al-Assad is now in his strongest position since the war's early days and shows no sign of slowing down his campaign to crush the rebellion. The Syrian army began preparatory shelling on Tuesday for an assault on the last area outside its control near Damascus, a commander in the pro-government alliance said. Recovering the Yarmouk camp and neighbouring areas south of the city would give Assad complete control over Syria's capital. Yarmouk, Syria's biggest camp for Palestinian refugees, has been under the control of Islamic State fighters for years. Although most residents have fled, the United Nations says several thousand remain. Assad has benefited from Russian air power since 2015 to regain large swathes of Syria. The suspected poison gas attack creates a conundrum for Western powers, who are determined to punish Assad for using chemical weapons but have no strategy for the sort of sustained intervention that might damage him. Damascus and Moscow have broadcast statements from hospital workers in Douma - which medical aid groups operating in rebel areas have dismissed as propaganda - saying that no chemical attack took place. Syrian state media reported that missiles had again targeted an airbase overnight, but the commander in the regional military alliance backing the government, speaking on condition of anonymity, later told Reuters it was a false alarm. The commander said the new offensive would target Islamic State and Nusra Front militants in Yarmouk camp and al-Hajar al-Aswad district. Rebels in the adjoining Beit Sahm area had agreed to withdraw on buses, he said. A government media tour on Monday of Douma, the biggest town in the former rebel enclave of eastern Ghouta just outside Damascus, revealed severe destruction and the plight of residents who had survived years of siege. The assault on eastern Ghouta began in February and ended in government victory on Saturday when rebels withdrew from the town. All the rebel groups controlling areas of eastern Ghouta eventually agreed to surrender deals that involved withdrawal to opposition-held areas of northwestern Syria. After the recapture of eastern Ghouta, Assad still has several smaller pockets of ground to recover from rebels, as well as two major areas they hold in the northwest and southwest. Besides the pocket south of Damascus, rebels still hold besieged enclaves in the town of Dumayr northeast of Damascus, in the Eastern Qalamoun mountains nearby, and around Rastan north of Homs. The pro-government commander said the army had prepared for military action in the Eastern Qalamoun, but that Russia was working on securing the rebels' withdrawal without a battle. State television said on Tuesday that rebels in Dumayr had also agreed to withdraw. In Idlib in northwest Syria, the largest area still held by rebels, a government assault could bring Damascus into a confrontation with Turkey, which has set up a string of military observation posts in the area. Ali Akbar Velayati, a top Iranian official, said during a visit to Damascus last week that he hoped the army would soon regain Idlib and areas of eastern Syria now held by an alliance of Kurdish and Arab militias backed by Washington.

Chemical weapons experts enter Douma to probe suspected poison gas attack

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