The defection of a spokesperson of the Assad regime is another sign that it is now crumbling, the US said today and asked Syrians to reject the horrific actions of the current government.

“We are certainly aware of reports that Assad regime spokesperson Jihad Makdissi has defected and fled Syria. We understand that he’s in London. If true, this is obviously another sign of the regime crumbling from within as those closest to Assad are realising that the end is nigh,” State Department spokesman Mark Toner said.

“We continue to encourage all regime officials and forces close to Assad to reject the horrific actions of that regime, and indeed they all have a decision to make, which is, you know, are they going to stand with the Syrian people, or are they going to stay where they are and be held accountable for the regime’s actions?” he said.