Chemical weapons used in Syria

Chemical weapons may have been used in a deadly attack in Aleppo, Syria on Tuesday. Both the government and the rebels blame the other side for the weapons use. Field reporters say there are numerous casualties and a strong smell of chlorine in the air. The use of such weapons is considered a red line to the Obama administration.

LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - Reports from Syria are coming into the newsroom claiming that chemical weapons may have been used by government forces on rebels in Aleppo, Syria. Syrian officials are saying the attack was perpetrated by terrorists. It has used this lie before to create confusion over the government-sanctioned killing of civilians.

UPDATE: Human rights observers say at least 26 people have been killed in the chemical attack. The attack also included conventional artillery and bombs fired by Assad forces.

Both sides accuse the other of delivering the weapons via missile. It is not believed the rebels have access to such weapons, however it is well known the government does.

Reporters and photographers say they have seen people with breathing problems in area hospitals and that there were people dying in the streets. The Obama administration has made no statement about the attacks as the news is breaking.

Previously, the administration said such an attack would be considered a "red line" which could spark U.S. military intervention in Syria.

There is little debate that chemical weapons have been deployed, however the mutual accusations make it difficult to fairly asses blame. While it could be a rebel tactic to spark international intervention, it is also more likely the result of a government strike and represents an escalation of the conflict into using weapons of mass destruction.

Catholic Online will keep you informed as this story develops.

---

'Help Give every Student and Teacher FREE resources for a world-class Moral Catholic Education'