The United Nations Human Rights Council extended the mandate of its investigation into war crimes in Syria by another six months on Friday.
The UN condemned the widespread violations by the Syrian government forces in the 18 month old conflict.
The resolution, which was drawn up by the Arab states, won the support of 41 out of the 47 member states with 3 abstentions. China, Cuba and Russia made up the 3 states against the resolution.
The US ambassador, Eileen Chamberlain Donahoe, said:
“The work of the commission of inquiry is important because as they continue to document the names of individuals responsible for these crimes and violations, they help ensure that those responsible for the crimes against the Syrian people face justice and accountability."
“This will not be a case where impunity prevails, but rather that those responsible for these crimes against the Syrian people will face justice and accountability,”
Syria’s ambassador, Faysal Khabbaz Hamoui, denounced the resolution, describing it as “highly politicised and selective.”
Since its launch over a year ago, the independent enquiry has interviewed more than 1,100 victims, refugees and defectors, whilst being denied access to Syria.
