Ashton calls for U.N. action against Syria

STRASBOURG, France, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- All members of the U.N. Security Council need to act responsibly and put pressure on the Syrian regime, Europe's foreign policy chief said in an address.

Navi Pillay, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, issued a damning report on Syria, reminding the Security Council that she wanted Syria referred to the International Criminal Court for the thousands of people killed since the uprising began mid-March.

The Security Council hasn't acted against Syria because of opposition from veto-wielding China and Russia.

Catherine Ashton, Europe's foreign policy chief, told the European Parliament that Security Council action was long overdue.

"All members of the U.N. Security Council must assume their responsibilities in relation to the situation in Syria," she said. "The EU and its member states will continue to lead the efforts for a strong and united message."

Apart from the mounting death toll, Ashton expressed concern about the humanitarian situation in Syria, where parts of the country are cut off from electricity, water and basic services. The most affected area, she said, was the city of Homs, a center of the lingering conflict.

She said European member states were ready to provide humanitarian assistance should Syrian authorities open the area without restrictions.

"And I hope we'll see action in the Security Council," she said. "That all members will take their responsibilities, and respond to this and respond to what the U.N. commissioner for human rights has said, with a great sense of urgency."