Benjamin Netanyahu has called for military action against Syria following the chemical attack

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The attack in Douma occurred late last Saturday amid a resumed offensive by Syrian government forces after the collapse of a truce with the Army of Islam rebel group.

Syrian opposition activists and rescuers said poison gas was used on the rebel-held town near the capital, after families were reportedly found suffocated in their homes and shelters with foam around their mouths.

Reports suggest more than 500 people, mostly women and children, were taken to medical centres with breathing problems and burning sensations in their eyes.

Mr Netanyahu commented on the attack at the opening of Israel’s annual Holocaust commemorations, saying: “The events of the last days teach that standing up to evil and aggression is a mission that is incumbent upon every generation.