U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley denounced Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad on Friday, saying "he thought he could get away" with using chemical weapons because Russia "would have his back."
Haley noted the importance of international cooperation and argued that in certain instances – such as the use of chemical weapons against civilians – countries may act unilaterally.
"The United States will not stand by when chemical weapons are used," Haley said.
Haley said that the United States was "fully justified" in attacking Syrian air fields because of the "moral stain" of Assad's regime.
"His crimes against humanity could no longer be met with empty words," Haley said. "It was time to say enough, but not only say it: It was time to act."
Haley also castigated Iran and Russia for being complicit in Syria's continued actions.
"The Iranian government bears a heavy responsibility. It has propped up and shielded Syria's brutal dictator for years. Iran continues to play a role in the bloodshed in Syria," Haley said.
Russia, according to Haley, continued to stand by Assad while he violated "human decency."
"The Russian government also bears considerable responsibility. Every time Assad has crossed the line of human decency, Russia has stood beside him," Haley said.