Iraq abstained on suspending Syrian membership in the Arab League

BAGHDAD / IraqiNews.com: The Arab League decided today the suspension of Syrian membership calling Arab countries to withdraw their ambassadors from Damascus till the implementation of its plan to solve the Syrian crisis. The resolution was taken with the approval of 18 states, 3 objected (Syria, Lebanon and Yemen) with Iraqi abstention. The resolution was announced in a press conference held by Qatari foreign minister Hamad bin Jassim, head of the current session of Arab Leagues Council. The Arab League called the Syrian army to “stop suppressing the demonstrations” and threatened “to impose political and economic sanctions against Asad Regime”. The Syrian cities are witnessing protest demonstrations since mid March last, while a UN report said that 3500 persons were killed since then. RM (TS)/SR 176