General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Sources: Intercepts show top Syrians preparing for chemical attack, discussing afterward [View all]joshcryer
(62,265 posts)You say, "there's no reference to specific planning for this attack by any higher-ups." The article says, "contains evidence showing senior regime officials making preparations for a massive chemical attack in the area where the incident occurred." Perhaps you have an issue with the word "preparation" and think it doesn't mean "planning."
So far we don't know what was said, this is just third hand reporting, probably from a congressperson who got a translation of a recording. The recordings really need to be released so that journalists, interpreters, can verify the contents. And I'm saying in full. The recordings could be taken out of context, too. It's the difference between, "prepare ... to ... fire chemical weapons," and "prepare procedures to contain area, rebels are about to fire chemical weapons."