The President of the European Parliament, Jerzy Buzek, made the following statement on the offensive of the Syrian army against Deir al-Zor:

"Once again, the world is witnessing the continuing violence of the Syrian regime. I am deeply appalled by the new military attacks against civilians in Deir al-Zor and other parts of Syria.

The arrest of political leaders on Friday and Saturday also showed that the Syrian regime has no intention of launching a credible political process for reform.

Syria has become a country under military repression by a regime that has lost all legitimacy. Those in power must abide by the UN Security Council's call for an immediate end to violence.

I urge the international community to take more decisive steps to stop the massacre of the Syrian people.

My thoughts are with those courageous men and women who are defending their freedom and dignity in the streets of Deir al-Zor and of so many other Syrian cities."

• Robert A. Golański

  Spokesman

  Mobile: +32 475 751 663

• Friedrich Bokern

  Press Officer

  Mobile: +32 498 981 348