Arab- American relations office criticize Syria Accountability Act, approved by Bush

The Arab-American Relations Office ( AARF ) expressed dissatisfaction and frustration over the U.S. President George W. Bush's signing of the so-called "Syria Accountability Act." The Arab community in the U.S., in a statement issued by the AARF, said the Act would encourage Israel to have a more intransigent and arrogant stance regarding international law.

The AARF Head, Zakarya Khalaf, said in a statement that the Act would not be in the service of the Arab-American ties, taking into consideration that everyone knows that Syria has a strategic and pivotal role in the region.

Khalaf added that with signing the move, Washington has lost the language of dialogue, and instead opted to use power and pressure, warning that this would harm its credibility as a superpower.

Meanwhile, in Caracas, the Syrian-Venezuelan Friendship Association denounced the American measure, saying it would further deteriorate the already tense situation in the region.

The Society added in a statement of solidarity with Syria that the Act only serves the interests of Israel, the party which seeks to destabilize the region. It also condemned Tel Aviv's threats against Syria, and stressed the Venezuelan people's solidarity with Syria.