The Syrian government received a surge of backlash following their attack on protestors, which could prompt an intervention by the United Nations. Almost five months ago, protestors took to the streets, inspired by the recent government overthrows in Tunisia and Egypt. With barely any progress for either the protestors or the government, demonstrators vowed to temporarily forego their demonstrations in honor of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. The Syrian government quickly took advantage of the demonstrators' silence by ordering a military assault on the city of Hama, killing almost 100 Syrians over the span of a weekend. In light of the unprovoked violence, the United Nations Security Council met to discuss what action they would take, but Russia and China disagree with the majority.
Ban expressed his disgust with the Syrian military and President al-Assad. "Since the beginning of this situation, I have issued many statements, I have spoken to President Assad several times, and I have expressed my sincere wish and genuine wish that he should genuinely, genuinely address these issues in a peaceful manner," he said, adding that al-Assad "must be aware that under international humanitarian law, this is accountable" (ABC News). .
With more killings occurring everyday and no immediate end in sight, the United Nations secretary-general Ban Ki-moon called an emergency meeting on August 1st. So far, the fifteen member nations have not been able to come to a unanimous decision. Britain, France, and Germany sided together to request a formal resolution berating Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. However, the other members disagree with passing a resolution on Syria, which poses a serious problem because Russia and China hold veto power. Brazil, India, and South Africa also disagree with a resolution (ABC News). .
The Security Council reconvened on August 2nd, but early talks seemed to be leading down the same path as the previous day.