President Obama's Statement on Violence in Syria
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
July 31, 2011
I am appalled by the Syrian government's use of violence and brutality against its own people. The reports out of Hama
are horrifying and demonstrate the true character of the Syrian regime. Once again, President Assad has shown that he is
completely incapable and unwilling to respond to the legitimate grievances of the Syrian people. His use of torture,
corruption and terror puts him on the wrong side of history and his people. Through his own actions, Bashar al-Assad is
ensuring that he and his regime will be left in the past, and that the courageous Syrian people who have demonstrated in
the streets will determine its future. Syria will be a better place when a democratic transition goes forward. In the
days ahead, the United States will continue to increase our pressure on the Syrian regime, and work with others around
the world to isolate the Assad government and stand with the Syrian people.
ENDS