Jeddah: Saudi Arabia called back its ambassador from Syria following the massive crackdown against anti-government demonstrators in the country.
In a statement aired across the Arab world, King Abdullah said the violence was “unacceptable”.
The decision came hours after the Arab League issued its first official condemnation over the oppression in Syria.
“The kingdom of Saudi Arabia… demands an end to the death machine and bloodshed and calls for acts of wisdom before it is too late,” King Abdullah said in a statement broadcast by al-Arabiya television.
“What is happening in Syria is not acceptable for Saudi Arabia. Either it (Syria) chooses wisdom on its own or it will be pulled down into the depths of turmoil and loss.”
The six-nation Gulf Co-operation Council also issued its first comments about the unrest on Sunday, condemning the “excessive use of force” and calling for an “immediate end to the violence”.
Meanwhile, human right activists said at least 50 people were killed on Sunday when the Syrian army stormed Deir al-Zour, the largest city in the east.
Deir al-Zour has been one of the main focal points of the unrest that began in mid-March.
Fresh protests
The Local Co-ordination Committees, an activist group that documents and organises protests in Syria, said on Sunday, thousands of protesters took to the streets in towns and cities including the capital Damascus, its suburbs, the central city of Homs, Latakia on the Mediterranean coast and northern city of Aleppo.
President Assad has insisted that his government is enacting reforms. He blames the violence on “armed” gangs” which he says are backed by foreign powers.
“Syria is on the path to reform,” he was quoted as telling Lebanese Foreign Minister Adnan Mansour by the state news agency, Sana.
“To deal with outlaws who cut off roads, seal towns and terrorise residents is a duty of the state, which must defend security and protect the lives of civilians,” he added.
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