Syrian opposition welcomes EU move to allow arms embargo on Syria to expire

In this image taken from video obtained from the Shaam News Network, which has been authenticated based on its contents and other AP reporting, Syrians participate in the funeral prayer for Youssef Ghazi al-Sarmani who was killed in fighting between rebel and government forces, Monday, May 27, 2013. Logo in red reads, "Talbiseh". (AP Photo/Shaam News Network via AP video) (The Associated Press)

ISTANBUL – A senior figure in the main Western-backed Syrian opposition group has welcomed the EU decision to let the bloc's arms embargo expire, calling it a "positive" step.

Syrian National Coalition member Louay Safi says however that a delay in deciding to provide weapons until August means that the Syrian regime can continue killing Syrians.

Tuesday's comments were the first by a Coalition member since EU member states decided late Monday to allow an arms embargo on Syria to expire Saturday.

Still, none of the block's 27 members have any immediate plans to send arms to the rebels.

Safi says the international community should move immediately to stop the killing. He spoke in Istanbul, Turkey, where the opposition has been meeting for days.