Harper now convinced Assad’s forces used chemical weapons in Syria

PARIS – Prime Minister Stephen Harper says he’s convinced the regime of Syrian President Bashar Assad used chemical weapons.

Harper’s remarks came after the United States announced it has proof Assad’s forces used chemical weapons — including the nerve agent, sarin — against Syrian rebels.

The U.S. now plans to begin arming the rebels, although precisely how that will be done is not yet clear.

Harper says he still has concerns about the risks of providing weapons and ammunition to the Syrian rebels.

French President Francois Hollande, speaking with Harper in Paris, says the Syrian opposition must be clear about how it intends to use the weapons.

Hollande also says military pressure must be exerted on Assad’s regime.