March 2012 - Syria Special Weapons News

Diplomats Push for End to Syria's Violence VOA 31 Mar 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is meeting with Gulf Arab diplomats in Saudi Arabia on Saturday to discuss issues that include bringing an end to Syria's year-long crackdown on dissent.
UN-Arab League envoy to continue regional consultations on Syrian conflict UN News Centre 30 Mar 2012 -- The Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States, Kofi Annan, will continue consultations with heads of governments in the Arab region to seek support for his mission in Syria, his spokesperson said today.
China Calls For Rapid Response to Annan Syria Plan RIA Novosti 30 Mar 2012 -- China called on the Syrian opposition on Friday to respond quickly to special envoy Kofi Annan's peace plan, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei said.
Amid Fresh Syrian Clashes, Annan Demands Ceasefire VOA 30 Mar 2012 -- U.N.-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan says the Syrian government must immediately implement a cease-fire and stop its attacks on opposition groups, as fresh clashes broke out across the country on Friday.
Clinton Talks Syrian Diplomacy with Saudi Officials VOA 30 Mar 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has begun talks with Saudi officials in Riyadh to examine ways of ending the ongoing bloodshed in Syria.
One million Syrians in need of humanitarian assistance – UN-backed survey UN News Centre 29 Mar 2012 -- At least one million Syrians are in need of humanitarian assistance, according to the findings of a government-led assessment mission jointly carried out with the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and released today.
Syrian Violence Kills 22 as Arab Leaders Back Peace Plan VOA 29 Mar 2012 -- Violence across Syria killed at least 22 people - most of them civilians - as Arab leaders in Baghdad backed a peace plan during a summit focused on resolving the year-long Syrian crisis.
Analysis: Syrian Red Crescent fighting perceptions of partiality IRIN 29 Mar 2012 -- As it tries to improve its image and convince donors of its impartiality, the Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC) is calling for more support in order to respond to growing humanitarian needs in Syria.
Syria Dominates Arab League Summit In Baghdad RFE/RL 29 Mar 2012 -- Baghdad is hosting its first Arab League summit in two decades, with the focus on the Syrian crisis.
Medvedev Urges 'Collective Approach' to Syria Solution RIA Novosti 29 Mar 2012 -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev called on Arab League member states to join forces in order to find a solution to the crisis in Syria as soon as possible, the Kremlin website said on Thursday.
UN Chief: 'No Time to Waste' For Syria RIA Novosti 29 Mar 2012 -- UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon said on Thursday time was running out for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to act on a UN-backed peace plan for the country, where government forces continued a crackdown on rebels.
Baghdad Summit Weighs Syria as Violence Continues VOA 29 Mar 2012 -- The leaders of fewer than half the Arab League's member states turned out for a summit in Baghdad Thursday amid tight security and a government-imposed curfew. Iraqi security officials say a rocket exploded in central Baghdad but caused little damage.
'Friends of Syria' to Meet for Opposition Support VOA 29 Mar 2012 -- High-level envoys from dozens of nations supporting Syria's opposition meet in Turkey Sunday for the second session of the so-called 'Friends of Syria' to plan for political change in the strife-torn country. Opposition leaders are under pressure to outline their vision for Syria if President Bashar al-Assad leaves power.
Syrian Kurds Could Tip Scales of Syrian Conflict VOA 29 Mar 2012 -- A tent city among the ruins of a former tobacco factory along the Turkish-Syrian border is home to Syrian refugee Ciwan and his four-year-old son. The Yayladagi camp is swarming with Syrians fleeing the bloodshed of their homeland. But for Ciwan, a Syrian Kurd, it's unfamiliar living among the it's unfamiliar living among the predominantly Arab population.
Ban calls on Syria to implement UN-Arab League envoy's plan to end crisis UN News Centre 28 Mar 2012 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called on Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad to implement a six-point plan put forward recently to find a peaceful solution to the crisis in the country.
US Lawmakers Urge Arming Syrian Government Opposition VOA 28 Mar 2012 -- U.S. lawmakers are urging a more active U.S. role to topple Syria's dictatorship, including arming opponents of President Bashar al-Assad.
Clinton: U.S. To Judge Assad's Actions, Not Words RFE/RL 28 Mar 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has cautiously welcomed the news that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is accepting a deal brokered by UN-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan to bring peace to the restive country.
Syria 'Will Reject' Any Initiative From Arab League Summit RFE/RL 28 Mar 2012 -- Syrian officials say the regime of President Bashar al-Assad will reject any initiative that comes out of this week's Arab League summit in the Iraqi capital aimed at ending the yearlong conflict in Syria.
Syrian Opposition Needs to Back Annan – Moscow RIA Novosti 28 Mar 2012 -- The Syrian opposition needs to follow official Damascus in supporting UN envoy Kofi Annan's plan for negotiating an end to a bloody standoff in the country, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.
Arab Ministers to Discuss Syria Resolution at League Summit RIA Novosti 28 Mar 2012 -- Arab foreign ministers have been arriving in Iraq ahead of a landmark summit to discuss the crisis in Syria as the country's disparate opposition groups agree to join forces.
Brigadier General Killed in Syria RIA Novosti 28 Mar 2012 -- Militants killed a Syrian brigadier general on his way to work on Wednesday near the northern Syrian city of Aleppo, the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reported.
Syrian Troops Assault Rebel Strongholds, New Diplomatic Push Starts VOA 28 Mar 2012 -- Syrian rights activists say government forces have assaulted several rebel strongholds, triggering battles that killed 13 people as Arab nations began a new diplomatic effort to end Syria's year-long conflict.
Arab League Discusses Syria Peace Plan VOA 28 Mar 2012 -- Arab League foreign ministers are expected to back special envoy Kofi Annan's plan to end the crisis in Syria, a day after President Bashar al-Assad's government accepted the proposal.
SYRIA: Unrest affecting entire communities IRIN 27 Mar 2012 -- As Ramisyah Ali El-Zaabi fled across the Syrian border - scaling a dirt wall, crawling under a fence and dropping to the ground amid gunfire - her eight-month-old daughter slept.
Syria Accepts UN Peace Plan RIA Novosti 27 Mar 2012 -- The Syrian government has agreed to accept a peace plan proposed by UN and Arab League envoy Kofi Annan, al Jazeera television quoted his spokesman as saying.
Syrian government accepts UN-Arab League envoy's six-point plan to end crisis UN News Centre 27 Mar 2012 -- The Syrian Government has accepted the six-point plan put forward by the Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States, Kofi Annan, who described the move as 'an important initial step' to end the violence and urged President Bashar Al-Assad to put the proposal into effect immediately.
Annan: Syria Accepts Six-Point Peace Plan VOA 27 Mar 2012 -- U.N.-Arab League envoy on Syria Kofi Annan says the Syrian government accepted his six-point peace plan for ending the year-long crisis. Mr. Annan called the move an 'important initial step.'
Wounded Rebel Fighters Escape Syria for Treatment VOA 27 Mar 2012 -- The opposition Free Syrian Army is sustaining heavy casualties in its fight with Syrian government forces. The injured said they cannot get treatment in Syria because they would be arrested.
UN-Arab League envoy receives response from Syria on his six-point plan to end crisis UN News Centre 26 Mar 2012 -- The Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States for Syria, Kofi Annan, today received a formal response from the Syrian Government on his six-point proposal to end the ongoing violence in the Middle Eastern country, according to a statement issued by his spokesperson.
Syria Cannot Resist Transformation - Annan RIA Novosti 26 Mar 2012 -- UN special envoy Kofi Annan said on Monday that Syrian cannot resist transformation and that the ongoing crisis cannot drag on forever.
At Least 5 Killed After Syrian Security Forces Shell Homs VOA 26 Mar 2012 -- Syrian activists say security forces have bombarded the flashpoint central city of Homs, setting fire to houses and killing at least five people in a key hub of a year-long uprising against President Bashar al-Assad.
Medvedev Says Annan May Be Last Chance To Avoid Civil War RFE/RL 25 Mar 2012 -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has warned Damascus that mediation on Syria's crisis by UN-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan could be the last opportunity to avoid a protracted conflict.
Annan Mission May be Last Chance to Avoid Syria Civil War – Medvedev RIA Novosti 25 Mar 2012 -- United Nations Secretary-General's Special Envoy for Syria Kofi Annan mission is, perhaps, Syria's last chance to avoid protracted civil war, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said on Sunday.
US, Allies Considering 'Non-Lethal' Aid for Syrian Rebels VOA 25 Mar 2012 -- The White House says President Barack Obama is considering providing Syrian rebels with 'non-lethal' aid in their year-long uprising against the country's autocratic leader Bashar al-Assad.
Peace Envoy Annan Presses Russia on Syria VOA 25 Mar 2012 -- International peace envoy Kofi Annan is trying to garner support from Russia to help stop bloodshed in Syria during the crackdown on an anti-government uprising.
Annan In Moscow On Syria Peace Mission RFE/RL 24 Mar 2012 -- Syrian peace envoy Kofi Annan has arrived in Moscow as he begins a trip to the Russian and Chinese capitals to discuss the crisis in Syria.
Moscow Cries Foul over UN Human Rights Resolution on Syria RIA Novosti 24 Mar 2012 -- Russia has sharply criticized the UN Human Rights Council's resolution on Syria, adopted on Friday, saying that it 'went against the international efforts on settling the conflict,' Foreign Ministry said on Saturday.
Syrian Army Pounds Homs VOA 24 Mar 2012 -- Activists say Syrian forces resumed heavy shelling of the already battered city of Homs on Saturday, as international envoy Kofi Annan arrived in Russia to discuss efforts to mediate an end to the crisis in Syria.
Press Conference by Commission of Inquiry on Syria, 23 March 2012 United Nations 23 Mar 2012
UN HRC demands end to violence in Syria UN News Centre 23 Mar 2012 -- The United Nations Human Rights Council adopted a resolution demanding that the Syrian Government cease all violence.
UN Panel: Syrians Victims of Military Attacks VOA 23 Mar 2012 -- The head of the U.N. Human Rights Council’s Commission of Inquiry on Syria says his investigators are finding that Syrians are increasingly victims of military attacks on towns and villages.
EU Slaps Sanctions on Syrian First Lady VOA 23 Mar 2012 -- The EU imposed a travel ban and asset freeze on Syrian President al-Assad's wife and several other members of his family and administration Friday.
Explainer: The Pros And Cons Of Possible Military Intervention In Syria RFE/RL 23 Mar 2012 -- The international community debates whether it should intervene militarily to stop the killing in Syria.
SYRIA: UN asks for help in responding to Syrian refugee crisis IRIN 23 Mar 2012 -- At the edge of this busy border town, a set of old, overcrowded buildings has become a transit house for Syrians fleeing to Jordan illegally.
Time Running Out for Missile Shield Talks RIA Novosti 23 Mar 2012 -- Russia is still open for dialogue on a planned U.S. missile shield in Europe, but opportunities for discussion are decreasing.
Russian Official Says Syria's Assad Needs To 'Take First Step' RFE/RL 22 Mar 2012 -- Mikhail Margelov, the chairman of foreign policy committee for Russia's upper house of parliament, said that the conflict in Syria needs to be stopped.
US Wants Iraq to Block Iran Weapons Sales to Syria VOA 22 Mar 2012 -- The United States wants Iraq to stop Iran from using Iraqi airspace to ship weapons to Syria.
Syrian Groups: At Least 60 Dead in Fresh Violence VOA 22 Mar 2012 -- Fresh clashes broke out across Syria on a day after the United Nations Security Council called for the government and opponents to enact a peace plan.
UN Chief Urges Syria Cease-Fire VOA 22 Mar 2012 -- U.N. Secretary-General Ban says the Security Council has sent a "clear" message in approving a non-binding document calling for end the country's bloody conflict.
EU Welcomes UN Syria Statement RIA Novosti 22 Mar 2012 -- European Union foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton has welcomed the UN Security Council’s statement on the Syria peace plan by its special envoy Kofi Annan.
Security Council calls on Syrian authorities to carry out plan UN News Centre 21 Mar 2012 -- The Security Council voiced grave concern at the deteriorating situation in Syria.
U.S. Urges Syria To Work With Annan Peace Plan RFE/RL 21 Mar 2012 -- The United States has warned the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to cooperate with a UN-backed plan or face increasing isolation.
UN Security Council Endorses Syria Peace Plan VOA 21 Mar 2012 -- The United Nations Security Council has adopted a statement supporting U.N.-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan's plan.
UN Security Council Weighs Syria Statement VOA 21 Mar 2012 -- U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has reiterated calls for an end to the violence in Syria.
JORDAN-SYRIA: Refugees say it is becoming harder to leave IRIN 21 Mar 2012 -- Syrians do not require a visa to enter Jordan, and before a popular uprising began in Syria last March, thousands of people crossed the border in both directions daily.
UN Chief Warns Syrian Crisis 'Extremely Dangerous' RFE/RL 21 Mar 2012 -- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says the Syrian crisis is "extremely dangerous" and could have massive repercussions globally.
In Syria, Russia Seeks To Preserve Middle East Foothold RFE/RL 21 Mar 2012 -- In an effort to win Russian backing, Western powers this week circulated a significantly watered-down draft UN Security Council statement on the unrest in Syria.
UN Syria Envoy to Visit Moscow RIA Novosti 21 Mar 2012 -- UN and Arab League envoy to Syria Kofi Annan will visit Moscow in the very near future, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Wednesday.
Lavrov Urges Approval of UN Syria Statement RIA Novosti 21 Mar 2012 -- Russia's foreign minister is hopeful a UN statement backing its envoy Kofi Annan's peace plan for Syria will be approved.
'Speak with one voice' to address Syrian crisis – Ban UN News Centre 20 Mar 2012 -- Secretary-General Ban stressed that the international community must continue to "speak with one voice" to find a solution to the Syrian crisis.
Russia Prepared to Back Annan's Syria Plan VOA 20 Mar 2012 -- Russia said it is prepared to support a U.N. Security Council resolution that would endorse a peace plan for Syria drafted by international envoy Kofi Annan.
Russia Ready to Back Annan Proposals on Syria in Security Council RIA Novosti 20 Mar 2012 -- Russia is ready to support a UN Security Council resolution on Syria based on UN and Arab League envoy Kofi Annan’s proposals.
Moscow, Damascus Deny Warship Reports Ahead Of UN Talks RFE/RL 20 Mar 2012 -- Russia and Syria have denied reports that a pair of Russian warships with a team of special forces on board has arrived in Syria.
Russia Denies Warship Report, MEP Demands Syria Inquiry RIA Novosti 20 Mar 2012 -- Moscow has denied media reports that a Russian warship has arrived in Syria, while a senior member of European parliament demanded an inquiry into the allegations.
UN Chief Says Situation In Syria 'Intolerable' RFE/RL 20 Mar 2012 -- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has said the situation in Syria is "unacceptable and intolerable."
No Russian Asylum Proposal for Syria’s Assad - Lavrov RIA Novosti 20 Mar 2012 -- Moscow has not told Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to leave Syria and take refuge in Russia, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.
EU Set To Tighten Sanctions Against Iran, Syria RFE/RL 20 Mar 2012 -- European Union foreign ministers are expected to ramp up sanctions against Iran and Syria when they meet in Brussels on March 23.
EU to Blacklist Assad's Wife RIA Novosti 20 Mar 2012 -- Asma al-Assad, the wife of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, will be added to the EU sanctions list at a meeting of the EU foreign ministers on March 23.
Arab League Summit Provides Test for Beleaguered Baghdad VOA 20 Mar 2012 -- Wracked by militant attacks, political divisions, sectarian tensions, and economic troubles, Iraq is expected to host Arab leaders.
Heavy Fighting Reported in Syrian Capital VOA 19 Mar 2012 -- Syrian security forces have clashed with rebels in an upscale area of Damascus.
Intense Fighting Rocks Syrian Capital VOA 19 Mar 2012 -- Syrian security forces have clashed with rebels in an upscale area of Damascus.
Heavy Fighting Reported In Damascus RFE/RL 19 Mar 2012 -- Fighting between rebels and government forces has been taking place in the Syrian capital, Damascus.
'Heavy fighting' Erupts in Damascus RIA Novosti 19 Mar 2012 -- Heavy fighting has erupted in Syria's capital, Damascus, on Monday between the rebel Free Syrian Army and forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad.
SYRIA: Aid workers give cautious welcome to start of humanitarian assessment IRIN 19 Mar 2012 -- A government-led assessment of Syrian areas affected by unrest began yesterday with a visit to the restive city of Homs, heavily devastated by nearly a month of shelling.
As Fighting Rages, Moscow Talks Focus On Syrian Aid RFE/RL 19 Mar 2012 -- The head of the International Committee of the Red Cross was preparing to meet with Russia's foreign minister over ways to get humanitarian aid into Syria.
Russia Seeks Red Cross Cooperation on Syria RIA Novosti 19 Mar 2012 -- Russia seeks further cooperation with the International Red Cross, especially on joint efforts to settle the humanitarian problems in conflict-torn Syria.
Israel Worried Over Syrian Hezbollah Missiles - Haaretz RIA Novosti 19 Mar 2012 -- Syria has supplied Lebanon’s Shiite Hezbollah militia with advanced Russian-made anti-aircraft missile systems and is training operators how to use them.
UN chief condemns bomb attacks in Syrian capital UN News Centre 17 Mar 2012 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has strongly condemned today's bomb attacks in the Syrian capital, Damascus, which killed or wounded scores of people.
Bomb Explodes in Aleppo One Day After Deadly Damascus Attacks VOA 18 Mar 2012 -- A bomb has exploded in Syria's second-largest city of Aleppo, one day after a double car bombing in the capital, Damascus, killed 27 people and wounded more than 100.
U.S. 'Concerned' About Iranian Flights to Syria RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2012 -- The United States has expressed concern that Iranian cargo planes overflying Iraq may be shipping weapons to Syria.
27 Killed as Two Explosions Rock Damascus VOA 17 Mar 2012 -- Syria says twin car bombings in Damascus on Saturday have killed at least 27 people.
Press Conference by Organization of Islamic Cooperation Secretary-General United Nations 16 Mar 2012
UN-Arab League envoy sending team to Syria to continue talks on ending crisis UN News Centre 16 Mar 2012 -- The Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States for Syria, Kofi Annan, today said he will send a team to the country at the weekend to continue discussions on proposals he has presented to the leadership as he tries to find a peaceful solution to the year-long bloody conflict.
Annan Urges UN Security Council To Break Syria Deadlock RFE/RL 16 Mar 2012 -- UN diplomats say the UN-Arab League envoy on the Syrian crisis, Kofi Annan, has urged the Security Council to overcome its deadlock and unify in support of his efforts to end deadly violence in the country.
Turkey Urges Its Citizens To Leave Syria RFE/RL 16 Mar 2012 -- Turkey is urging its citizens in Syria to return home as quickly as possible due to the violence convulsing the neighboring country.
Annan Asks for UN Action on Syria VOA 16 Mar 2012 -- The U.N. and Arab League's chief peace envoy to Syria, Kofi Annan, called on Security Council members Friday to end their stalemate and decide what to do to pressure Syria into ending its deadly crackdown on dissent.
Syrian Refugees in Jordan Confirm Reports of Abuse, Torture VOA 16 Mar 2012 -- Human rights activists increasingly are voicing alarm over reports of abuse and torture in Syria, where an uprising against the government has entered its second year. Syrian refugees in Jordan confirm such reports.
Status quo in Syria 'indefensible,' Ban says on anniversary of uprising UN News Centre 15 Mar 2012 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today marked the anniversary of the uprising in Syria by calling for an end to the ongoing bloodshed, which has claimed more than 8,000 lives since popular protests began a year ago, and for a peaceful resolution of the crisis.
Iran starts humanitarian aid to Syria via air IRNA 15 Mar 2012 -- Iran supports Syrian nation's resistance toward western-motivated unrests and Tehran started sending its humanitarian aid to Damascus via air, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian , Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Arab and African Affairs said on Wednesday.
Turkey May Set up Buffer zone at Syrian Border RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2012 -- Turkey is considering the creation of a buffer zone at the Syrian border to support refugees fleeing the conflict-stricken country, Turkish deputy Prime Minister Besir Atalay told the NTV channel on Thursday.
Damascus 'Positive' on UN-Arab Mission After Year of Unrest RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2012 -- Damascus is interested in the success of UN-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan's mission intended to restore peace in Syria, the country's Foreign Ministry spokesman Jihad Makdissi said as the bloody uprising against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad entered its second year on Thursday.
Saudi Arabia Closes Embassy in Syria RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2012 -- Saudi Arabia has shut down its embassy in Syria and has withdrawn all its staff and diplomats, al-Arabiya reported citing a statement by Saudi Arabia's Foreign Ministry.
Syria's Assad Withstands Pressure That Toppled Other Arab Leaders VOA 15 Mar 2012 -- In Egypt, Hosni Mubarak's long-trusted military helped force him from office. In Libya, top officials scrambled to distance themselves from Moammar Gadhafi almost from the start. Tunisia's Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali fled his country within weeks, while in Yemen, Ali Abdullah Saleh took his time. But he, too, prodded by neighboring countries, is now in exile.
Death Toll Mounts as Syria Marks Uprising Anniversary VOA 15 Mar 2012 -- At least 23 people are reported dead as Syrian forces continue a crackdown on dissent Thursday, the first anniversary of the uprising, while state television showed huge rallies in support of President Bashar al-Assad.
UN-Arab League envoy receives response from Syria, seeks clarifications UN News Centre 14 Mar 2012 -- The Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States for Syria has received a response from the Syrian authorities on issues he raised when he visited the country to help find a peaceful solution to the ongoing violence, and is seeking further clarifications, his spokesperson said today.
Syrian Government Attacks Continue as Diplomacy Stalls VOA 14 Mar 2012 -- With international diplomacy stalled, forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad are attacking the southern flashpoint city of Daraa Wednesday. The forces appear to be gaining against rebel fighters. Meanwhile, three prominent members of an opposition council submitted their resignations, further fragmenting the activists.
80,000 Syrians Take Refuge in Jordan VOA 13 Mar 2012 -- The Syrian government's assault on opposition strongholds is causing more and more people to flee the country. Neighboring countries such as Jordan are trying to help them, but the influx is straining limited resources.
Syrian Detainees Subjected To 'Systematic Torture' RFE/RL 14 Mar 2012 -- Amnesty International says Syrians who have been detained during the yearlong uprising against President Bashar al-Assad's rule have been subjected to "systematic torture" by regime forces that amounts to a crime against humanity.
No Plans to Send Russian Combat Troops to Syria - Lavrov RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2012 -- There are no plans to send Russian combat troops to Syria if there is foreign military intervention, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said, answering questions from Russian lawmakers during a 'government hour' meeting at the State Duma.
Rights Group Details Torture of Syrian Detainees VOA 14 Mar 2012 -- Dozens of Syrians say they were abused or tortured in detention, according to a new report published Wednesday by the rights group Amnesty International.
Security Council Divided Amid Calls for Halt to Syrian Violence VOA 13 Mar 2012 -- The United States, Britain and Russia have each called for a halt to the violence in Syria, but the United Nations Security Council remains divided on how to resolve the crisis in the country.
U.S. Calls Syrian Parliamentary Vote Plans 'Ridiculous' RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2012 -- The United States does not take seriously a desicion by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to hold parliamentary elections in the country hit by flagrant violence, State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said on Tuesday.
Arab League Chief Urges Probe into Civilian Deaths in Syria RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2012 -- Arab League Secretary General Nabil al-Arabi called on Tuesday for an international probe into civilian deaths in Syria, Arab media reported.
West Sees Need for Joint Syria Settlement - Lavrov RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2012 -- Western countries have begun realizing the necessity of joint efforts to settle the ongoing Syrian crisis, rather than blaming Russia for the current situation, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Tuesday.
Qatar Violates Agreements on Syria - Lavrov RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2012 -- Qatar's calls for a military solution to the Syrian crisis go against the principles of peaceful settlement agreed by Russia and the Arab League, the Russian Foreign Minister said on Tuesday.
UN-Arab League envoy awaiting Syrian response on proposals to end crisis UN News Centre 13 Mar 2012 -- The Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States for Syria, Kofi Annan, said he expects to hear back from Syrian authorities today on the proposals he put forward during his recent meetings in Damascus on ending the ongoing crisis in the country.
UN Envoy Expects Syrian Response VOA 13 Mar 2012 -- Former U.N. chief Kofi Annan says he expects the Syrian government to respond on Tuesday to his proposals to resolve the country's deadly violence from an on-going crackdown on dissent.
Russia Says Won't Supply S-300 Missiles To Iran, But Will Supply Syria RFE/RL 13 Mar 2012 -- U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta has met with Kyrgyzstan's leaders to stress that the United States considers the continued use of a military base in the country as crucial to U.S. efforts in Afghanistan.
12 March 2012 - Press Conference on Syria by Emergency Relief Coordinator United Nations 12 Mar 2012
Syrian civilians continue to bear brunt of 'collective punishment' – UN rights panel UN News Centre 12 Mar 2012 -- Civilians continue to bear the brunt of violence in Syria, the head of the United Nations-appointed panel probing human rights abuses in the country said today, noting that the use of force by security forces and the military against armed groups has often led to collective punishment.
Turkey Concerned at Growing Number of Syrian Refugees VOA 12 Mar 2012 -- Syrian refugees have crossed into Turkey in growing numbers in recent days, frightened by a government assault on the northern Syrian city of Idlib, near the border with Turkey. The latest influx of refugees has led to growing unease in Ankara.
West, UN Call for Strong, Unified Security Council on Syria VOA 12 Mar 2012 -- Western leaders repeated their call on Monday for Russia and China to support a strong United Nations Security Council resolution to end the violence in Syria, where scores of people have been wounded or killed daily. The appeal came during a high-level meeting on the impact and opportunities of the Arab Spring, which was overshadowed by the Syrian crisis.
Syrian Opposition Accuses Security Forces Of Homs 'Massacre' RFE/RL 12 Mar 2012 -- Dozens of civilians, mostly women and children, have been reported killed in Syria’s central province of Homs.
Syrian Violence Dominates UN Security Council's 'Arab Spring' Debate RFE/RL 12 Mar 2012 -- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has opened a Security Council meeting in New York with a call for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to act within the "next few days" on UN-Arab League peace proposals.
Syrian Authorities Pledge to Crush Armed Resistance RIA Novosti 12 Mar 2012 -- Syrian authorities will continue the crackdown on armed groups fighting on the side of the opposition until they are completely eliminated, Syrian Ambassador to Russia Riyad Haddad said on Monday.
Syrian Activists: Women, Children Massacred in Homs VOA 12 Mar 2012 -- The Syrian government and activists say dozens of civilians have been killed in Homs in recent days, although both sides dispute responsibility for the deaths.
Saudi Arabia Condemns Russian Statement on Syria RIA Novosti 11 Mar 2012 -- The Saudi Arabian Foreign Ministry issued a statement saying that it refutes and condemns a statement released by Russia on March 4, which included allegations that the Kingdon supports terrorism in Syria.
Joint UN-Arab League envoy urges Syrian President to embrace reforms UN News Centre 11 Mar 2012 -- The Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States for Syria, Kofi Annan, today urged Syria's President Bashar al-Assad to embrace change and reforms that will create the foundation for a democratic society in his country.
Annan 'Optimistic' After 2nd Meeting With Syria's Assad VOA 11 Mar 2012 -- International peace envoy Kofi Annan says he is 'optimistic' about a resolution of Syria's year-long unrest after a second round of talks with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in Damascus. But, he says securing a deal to end the violence will be 'tough.'
UN Security Council to Focus on Syria Aid, Arab Spring VOA 10 Mar 2012 -- The United Nations Security Council will hold a ministerial level meeting on Monday to discuss the situation in the Middle East in the wake of the Arab Spring. It will also provide an opportunity to highlight the deteriorating situation in the latest Arab Spring battlefield, Syria.
Syrian President: Terrorist groups blocking political settlement IRNA 10 Mar 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar al Assad told visiting UN-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan that 'terrorist groups' are stopping a political solution to the crisis in the country.
Red Cross says carried relief operations with Syria's Red Crescent IRNA 10 Mar 2012 -- The Syrian Arab Red Crescent and the International Committee of the Red Cross have assisted thousands of people over the past few days alone, The Geneva-based ICRC said on Saturday.
Assad Tells Annan 'Terrorists' Block Solution, As Violence Continues RFE/RL 10 Mar 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has told UN-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan his government is ready for "any honest effort" to end the violence, but blamed "terrorists" for blocking a solution.
Russia, Arab League Agree Plan on Syria RIA Novosti 10 Mar 2012 -- Russia and the Arab League have negotiated a plan to settle the bloody political conflict in Syria, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday.
Joint UN-Arab League envoy urges Syrian President to act now to end crisis UN News Centre 10 Mar 2012 -- The Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States for Syria, Kofi Annan, today urged Syria's President Bashar al-Assad to take 'concrete steps' to end the current crisis in the Middle Eastern country.
Fresh Fighting in Syria, Assad Backs 'Honest' Peace VOA 10 Mar 2012 -- Former U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan, now in Syria as an envoy for the Arab League and the United Nations, met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad Saturday in Damascus, as Arab foreign ministers gathered in Cairo to discuss the Syrian crisis. Mr. Assad is reported to have pledged an 'honest effort' to achieve peace in his country, but said he would not consent to any talks with his political opponents, whom he describes as 'armed terrorist groups, spreading chaos and violence.'
Ex-UN Chief to Meet With Syria's Assad VOA 09 Mar 2012 -- The former head of the United Nations will meet with Syria's President Bashar al-Assad in an attempt to end the ongoing violence in the Middle Eastern country.
Syria: UN relief chief 'horrified' by violence, urges access for aid agencies UN News Centre 09 Mar 2012 -- The United Nations relief chief today urged Syrian authorities to allow unrestricted access to humanitarian organizations to deliver aid to people affected by the ongoing violence, saying she was 'horrified' by the destruction she had seen in some of the areas she visited during her two-day visit to the country.
UN: Syria Stalling on Humanitarian Aid VOA 09 Mar 2012 -- The United Nations says Syria is refusing 'unhindered' access for humanitarian aid.
Bloodshed Precedes UN Envoy's Syria Visit VOA 09 Mar 2012 -- Renewed efforts to end the violence in Syria are being overshadowed by more demonstrations and deaths.
Tripoli Questions Russian Claims of Libyan Training for Syrian Opposition VOA 08 Mar 2012 -- Libya's interim prime minister says he does not believe Russian allegations that the transitional government in Tripoli is helping to train armed opponents of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Libya is asking for U.S. help to apprehend members of the former Gadhafi government.
Panetta Defends U.S. Caution On Syria, Says Assad Exit Is A Matter Of Time RFE/RL 08 Mar 2012 -- U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta has defended U.S. caution in trying to end violence in Syria.
Oil Official Becomes First High-Ranking Syrian Defection RFE/RL 08 Mar 2012 -- Syrian Deputy Oil Minister Abdo Hussameddin has announced his defection to the opposition, becoming the first high-ranking civilian official to abandon President Bashar al-Assad's regime since the Syrian uprising erupted a year ago.
Syria Minister 'Joins Revolution' RIA Novosti 08 Mar 2012 -- Syria's deputy oil minister announced his defection on Thursday, saying he is joining the uprising against President Bashar al-Assad, al Jazeera television reported.
Joint UN-Arab League envoy urges immediate halt to Syria violence UN News Centre 08 Mar 2012 -- The Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States for Syria today called for an immediate end to the killings and warned against the use of force to bring an end to the crisis.
Purported Syrian Minister Quits Regime VOA 08 Mar 2012 -- A man claiming to be Syria's deputy oil minister has appeared in a YouTube video saying he resigned his post to join the opposition to President Bashar al-Assad.
Annan Opposes 'Further Militarization' in Syria VOA 08 Mar 2012 -- U.N.-Arab League special envoy for Syria Kofi Annan has warned against further militarization of the country's unrest, saying it would make the situation ';worse.';
Iran Will Be Biggest Loser When Assad Falls, Panetta Says AFPS 07 Mar 2012 -- Iran will be the biggest loser when Syrian President Bashar Assad's regime falls, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta told the Senate Armed Services Committee today.
US Military Intervention in Syria Debated on Capitol Hill VOA 07 Mar 2012 -- U.S. defense officials are resisting calls from some lawmakers for American military intervention in Syria to end bloodletting and hasten the departure of President Bashar al-Assad.
Clinton: Blocking Humanitarian Aid 'New Low' for Syria's Assad VOA 07 Mar 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said Wednesday that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's efforts to block humanitarian relief supplies for civilians represents a 'new low' in campaign of violence against his political opponents.
Russia Not Considering Sheltering Assad – Putin RIA Novosti 07 Mar 2012 -- Russia is not considering providing political asylum to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, Prime Minister and president-elect Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday.
U.S. Seeks to Provide Direct Aid to Syrian Opposition RIA Novosti 07 Mar 2012 -- The United States is preparing to provide direct humanitarian and communications assistance to the Syrian opposition in a move that would be a serious step towards the U.S. plan to oust Syrian President Bashar al-Asad, the Foreign Policy journal reported on Wednesday.
Obama Rules Out Airstrike on Syria RIA Novosti 07 Mar 2012 -- A unilateral U.S. military action against the regime of Bashar al-Assad in Syria would be a 'mistake,' U.S. President Barack Obama said.
Syria Opposition Struggles to Overcome Rifts VOA 07 Mar 2012 -- Members of Syria's opposition are downplaying a rift in their ranks, but acknowledge problems within the Syrian National Council. Some of the main opposition group's more outspoken members have been talking about the ways they think are best to proceed.
Chinese Envoy Pushes Peace Plan in Damascus VOA 07 Mar 2012 -- A Chinese envoy has arrived in Syria to press for an unconditional halt to violence in the country and the beginning of political dialogue.
UN Humanitarian Chief Travels to Homs, Syria VOA 07 Mar 2012 -- The U.N. humanitarian chief is traveling to the battered Syrian city of Homs on the first day of her mission to push for relief workers to be given unhindered access to those in need of aid.
Press Conference by President Obama, March 06, 2012 The White House 06 Mar 2012
Statement by Senators McCain, Lieberman and Graham on the Situation in Syria Office of US Senator Joe Lieberman 06 Mar 2012
Obama Discusses Situations in Iran, Syria, Afghanistan AFPS 06 Mar 2012 -- President Barack Obama took questions from reporters at a press conference this afternoon on his administration’s policies and intentions on situations in Iran, Syria and Afghanistan.
Obama: Acting Alone Against Syria Would be a 'Mistake' VOA 06 Mar 2012 -- President Barack Obama said Tuesday that unilateral military action by the United States against the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad would be a mistake.
Mattis Explains Challenges in Syrian Situation AFPS 06 Mar 2012 -- As al-Qaida takes advantage of the unrest in Syria, Iran is working desperately to keep Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime in power to support its own agenda, the U.S. Central Command commander told Congress today.
Turkey Calls on Syria to Allow Humanitarian Aid VOA 06 Mar 2012 -- Turkey's prime minister has called for the immediate establishment of humanitarian aid corridors in Syria.
Images of alleged torture in Syrian hospitals ‘shocking’ – UN rights office UN News Centre 06 Mar 2012 -- The United Nations human rights office said today that images shown by a British news programme of the alleged torture of patients in Syrian hospitals were “shocking” and similar to those received by UN-mandated investigators.
UN Rights Office Documents Torture in Syria VOA 06 Mar 2012 -- The United Nations Human Rights Office says video shown on British television Monday night of people being tortured in Syrian hospitals is in line with evidence gathered by U.N. fact-finding missions.
Russia Retains Stance on Syria After Presidential Elections RIA Novosti 06 Mar 2012 -- Russia's stance on Syria has always been based on the principles of international law and it will be not changed after the recent presidential elections, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday.
UN Estimates 9,000 Syrians Fled to Lebanon VOA 06 Mar 2012 -- The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees say at least 9,000 Syrians have fled into Lebanon since the Syrian government began a bloody crackdown on anti-government protests last year.
International Aid Workers and Diplomats Press Syria on Crisis VOA 05 Mar 2012 -- The International Committee of the Red Cross says aid workers in Syria have reached two Homs neighborhoods near Baba Amr, a rebellious district overrun by government forces last week after a nearly month-long assault.
SYRIA: Towards better coordination of aid response IRIN 05 Mar 2012 -- Aid agencies should use Syrian civil society and the private sector to deliver medical and food aid to communities in need inside Syria, humanitarian agencies from the Arab and Muslim world said at an operational/technical meeting in Cairo on 4 March.
Top UN relief official granted permission to visit Syria UN News Centre 05 Mar 2012 -- The United Nations relief chief Valerie Amos announced today that she will visit the Syrian capital, Damascus, on Wednesday to urge all parties to the conflict to allow unhindered access for aid workers to evacuate the wounded and deliver essential humanitarian supplies.
Aid Workers in Syria Reach Homs Neighborhoods VOA 05 Mar 2012 -- The International Committee of the Red Cross says aid workers in Syria have reached two Homs neighborhoods near Baba Amr, a rebellious district overrun by government forces last week after a near-month long assault.
Syrian Forces Pound Rebel-held Town as Some Aid Gets Through VOA 04 Mar 2012 -- Syrian government forces pounded the northern rebel-held town of Rastan Sunday along with several districts of the beleaguered city of Homs. Humanitarian aid reached some areas near Homs but not the battered district of Baba Amr, taken by government forces Thursday.
Ban underlines need for concerted international effort to end bloodshed in Syria UN News Centre 02 Mar 2012 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today underlined the need for concerted action to end the crisis in Syria, lamenting that the international community has thus far failed in its responsibility to stop the bloodshed in the country, where he said the Government was waging an 'atrocious assault' against its own people.
UN's Ban 'Alarmed' At Fresh Syria Atrocity Reports RFE/RL 03 Mar 2012 -- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has expressed alarm at reports coming from the Syrian flash-point city of Homs that suggest Syrian government forces are arbitrarily executing, imprisoning, and torturing people.
Red Cross Denied Access to Besieged Homs RIA Novosti 03 Mar 2012 -- Syrian pro-government forces that continue shelling the opposition stronghold of Homs, denied access to the besieged city on Saturday for a humanitarian convoy of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) that was seeking entry to the city to help the injured, the world's media reported.
U.S. Says Russia 'Fuels Fire' by Selling Arms to Syria RIA Novosti 03 Mar 2012 -- Russia is playing a 'dangerous role' by supplying arms to Syria amid the ongoing violent clashes in the country between the authorities and protesters, Victoria Nuland, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Department of State said.
Syrian Forces Shell Homs, Block Aid to Rebel Stronghold VOA 03 Mar 2012 -- Syrian government forces shelled at least four neighborhoods of Homs Saturday, as the International Red Cross appealed to Syrian authorities to allow aid workers to enter embattled city's devastated Bab Amr district.
US Unconvinced That Arming Syrian Uprising Would Topple Assad VOA 02 Mar 2012 -- Opponents of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad are asking international supporters to arm their uprising against Damascus.
Syria's Opposition Wants More Arms VOA 02 Mar 2012 -- The Syrian National Council says its decision to form a military council and unify the opposition will help get weapons from outside sources.
Humanitarian Aid Stopped From Reaching Syrian Flashpoint Area VOA 02 Mar 2012 -- The International Committee of the Red Cross says it has been stopped from bringing medical supplies and humanitarian aid to Homs.
Aid Reaches Embattled Syrian City VOA 02 Mar 2012 -- The International Committee of the Red Cross says medical supplies and humanitarian aid have reached the battered city of Homs.
Red Cross Convoy Reaches Syria's Besieged Homs RFE/RL 02 Mar 2012 -- An International Committee of the Red Cross convoy of food and other aid has reached the besieged Syrian city of Homs.
EU Recognizes Syrian National Council RIA Novosti 02 Mar 2012 -- The European Union on Friday declared the Syrian National Council as a “legitimate representative of Syrians.”
France Calls for Humanitarian Zone on Syrian Border RIA Novosti 02 Mar 2012 -- French President Nicolas Sarkozy called for a humanitarian zone to be built near the Syrian border to hold civilians fleeing the country’s ongoing violence.
Russia Not Obliged to Fight on Side of Syria - FM Spokesman RIA Novosti 02 Mar 2012 -- Current treaties do not oblige Russia to offer military assistance to Syria in case of intervention, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Alexander Lukashevich said.
Libya and Syria top talks on chemical weapons between Ban and key official UN News Centre 01 Mar 2012 -- The destruction of chemical weapons in Libya and the possible existence of similar stockpiles in Syria have topped agenda between Secretary-General Ban and the head of body dedicated to the removal of such weapons.
US: Syrian Leader's Demise 'Inevitable' VOA 01 Mar 2012 -- U.S. officials say Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s rule will end, but they do not know when or what will transpire afterwards.
Syria: Ban and new envoy Annan discuss ways to resolve crisis UN News Centre 29 Feb 2012 -- Secretary-General Ban and Kofi Annan have held talks to discuss how to end the deadly violence gripping Syria.
UN Human Rights Council deplores ‘brutal’ actions by Syria against civilians UN News Centre 01 Mar 2012 -- The top United Nations human rights body deplored the “brutal” actions of the Syrian authorities.
U.S. Official: Syrian 'Tipping Point' Must Come 'Quickly' RFE/RL 01 Mar 2012 -- A top U.S. official for the Middle East says the "tipping point" in Syria must come "quickly."
Syrian Rebels Retreat From Besieged Stronghold VOA 01 Mar 2012 -- Most of Syria's rebel fighters have pulled out of the besieged Baba Amr district of Homs after a months-long military assault by President Bashar al-Assad's security forces.
Syrian Rebels Withdraw From Besieged Homs District RFE/RL 01 Mar 2012 -- Syrian rebels fighting government troops in the city of Homs say they have withdrawn from the district of Baba Amr..
UN Rights Council Condemns Syrian Crackdown VOA 01 Mar 2012 -- The United Nations Human Rights Council has condemned what it calls "widespread and systematic violations of human rights" by the Syrian government.
Russian Foreign Minister Reiterates Stance on Syria RIA Novosti 01 Mar 2012 -- The UN Security Council should not turn into "a testing range" for unilateral decisions "to change political regimes in sovereign countries," Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.
Clinton Calls Russia’s Stance on Syria ‘Frustrating’ RIA Novosti 01 Mar 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton called Russia’s lack of cooperation in efforts to resolve the current political and humanitarian crises in Syria.
Russia Votes Against UN Human Rights Council Resolution on Syria RIA Novosti 01 Mar 2012 -- Russia, China and Cuba voted against a UN Human Rights Council resolution calling on Syria to immediately end violence against civilians and grant humanitarian organizations access to the country.
Russia, China Applaud Syrian Referendum RIA Novosti 01 Mar 2012 -- The foreign ministers of Russia and China gave a favorable assessment to the referendum on a new constitution held in Syria.
Plot to Abduct Syrian Rebel Army Leaders Thwarted in Turkey RIA Novosti 01 Mar 2012 -- Turkey’s intelligence service has thwarted a plot to abduct commanders of Syria’s rebel Free Syrian Army from its tent camp in Turkey.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

March 2012 - Syria Special Weapons News