Istanbul, Turkey.-The Syrian Coalition warns that Assad’s forces are possibly planning to commit a new massacre in the town of al-Mitras, rural Tratus. Last month, Assad forces killed four members of a family in the town. Furthermore, the shelling on the town has intensified in the past couple of days killing at least five people and injuring four.

Free Syrian Army (FSA) brigades have been attempting to repel the regime’s offensive in the town. Fierce clashes have occurred, and there are serious concerns that Assad’s forces, supported by Shabiha, will commit a massacre against civilians if they enter the town.

The town of al-Mitras lies south of the city of Safita and has a population of about 8 thousand. It is surrounded by towns and villages that support the Assad regime.

The Syrian Coalition wishes to remind the international community of its responsibilities towards saving the lives of innocent men, women and children in Syria. Humanitarian corridors must be established to allow safe access of aid. Necessary support must be provided in order to stop the bloodshed and end the massacres and disasters that Syrian people have been experiencing for two and a half years.