Former Syrian general: Syrian use of chemical weapons against other countries a “big bluff”

Akil Hashem, retired Syrian brigadier general, explains why he thinks President Bashar al-Assad won’t step down and why Syria cannot use chemical weapons against other countries but may use them on civilians in Syria.

Hashem says that from military standpoint, Syria does not of the capability (long range artillery, missiles, airplanes) to carry the weapon components far enough to hit targets outside of the country, but will use chemical weapons on its people if Pres. al-Assad becomes “desperate enough.”

Starting Point with Soledad O’Brien airs weekday mornings from 7-9am ET on CNN.