Syria Finds Remnants of Assad-Era Chemical Weapons Program

Syria’s permanent representative in The Hague said the transitional administration has identified remnants of a secret chemical weapons program from the era of former President Bashar al-Assad. The discovery reportedly includes raw materials and munitions similar to those used in deadly gas attacks during the war years. Syrian authorities have detained 18 people suspected of involvement in the chemical weapons program. Those held include senior military, political and technical officials. The investigation is focused on individuals linked to the management of the chemical program during Assad’s rule. No further details were given on the locations of the finds or the scope of the remaining stockpiles.