U.N. launches probe of alleged Syria chemical arms attack

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - The United Nations said on Thursday it will investigate Syria's allegations that rebel forces used chemical weapons in an attack near Aleppo, but Western countries sought a probe of all claims about the use of such banned arms.

"I have decided to conduct a United Nations investigation into the possible use of chemical weapons in Syria," Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said. He told reporters the investigation will focus on "the specific incident brought to my attention by the Syrian government."