US said it’s deeply concerned by reports that Internet service had been shut down across much of Syria, as had some mobile communication networks. It therefore, condemned in no unmistaken term any effort to suppress the Syrian people’s exercise of their rights to free expression, assembly, and association.
Just two weeks ago, the White House released the International Strategy for Cyberspace, which noted that “States should not arbitrarily deprive or disrupt individuals’ access to the Internet or other networked technologies.” We condemn such shutdowns in the strongest terms.
It is no longer news that the Syrian government has a history of restricting the Internet in an attempt to prevent the Syrian people from accessing and sharing information.
US warned the Syrian government must understand that attempting to silence its population cannot prevent the transition currently taking place, while advocating that even in the face of significant obstacles, the Syrian people will -- and should -- find a way to make their voices heard.
Adding: “The United States stands for universal human rights, including freedom of expression, and we call on all governments to respect them.”