August 2012 - Syria Special Weapons News

Syrian Rebels Attack Aleppo Security Compounds VOA 31 Aug 2012 -- Activists say Syrian rebel fighters have attacked several security compounds in the northern city of Aleppo as clashes continued in other areas of the war-torn country.
Syrian Rebels Threaten Attacks on Airports RIA Novosti 31 Aug 2012 -- The Free Syria Army has warned airlines to suspend service to Damascus and Aleppo, saying rebel forces could begin attacking airports in the two cities as early as next Tuesday.
SYRIA: Politics trumps humanitarianism IRIN 31 Aug 2012 -- This week’s media headlines about the Syrian crisis have focused on a walk-out by the Syrian delegation at the Non-Aligned Movement summit.
Moscow Calls on U.S., EU to Lift Sanctions against Syria RIA Novosti 31 Aug 2012 -- Russia has called on the United States and the European Union to immediately lift all unilateral sanctions their imposed in regard to Syria.
UN refugee agency reports increase in number of Syrians crossing into Lebanon UN News Centre 31 Aug 2012 -- The United Nations refugee agency is seeing an increase in the number of Syrian refugees arriving in eastern Lebanon's Bekaa Valley.
Aid Agencies Scrambling to Relocate Refugees from Syrian Schools VOA 31 Aug 2012 -- Aid agencies in Syria and neighboring countries are scrambling to relocate refugees sheltered in education facilities before school resumes in mid-September.
Iranian Hopes Dashed at Non-Aligned Summit VOA 31 Aug 2012 -- Iran hosted a summit of the 120-nation Non-Aligned movement this week. But the conference did not go exactly as Iranian leaders had hoped.
Supreme Leader: Money, arms shipment to opposition in Europe will result in Syria-like situation IRNA 31 Aug 2012 -- Supreme Leader of Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei said that transfer of money and arms to opponents of policies of European governments would result in conditions similar to that of Syria.
Press Conference by Foreign Ministers of France, United Kingdom on Syria, 30 August 2012 United Nations 30 Aug 2012
Britain, France Play Down Syria 'Safe Zone' Hopes RFE/RL 30 Aug 2012 -- The British and French foreign ministers say there are major obstacles to establishing safe zones for refugees within Syria.
UN Chief to Tehran: Use Your Influence Positively in Syria VOA 30 Aug 2012 -- The U.N. Secretary-General delivered strong messages to Iran’s leadership, urging the Islamic Republic to use its influence constructively in the Syrian crisis.
Syria Delegation Leaves Tehran Summit in Protest RIA Novosti 30 Aug 2012 -- The Syrian delegation to the Non-Aligned Movement summit in Tehran walked out in protest during a speech by Egyptian President Mohamed Morsy.
Egyptian Leader Denounces Syrian Government VOA 30 Aug 2012 -- Regional pressure mounted on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad as Egypt's newly elected leader called Syria's government "oppressive" and urged it to transfer power to a democratic system.
Egyptian President Denounces Syria Regime During Iran Visit RFE/RL 30 Aug 2012 -- Egypt's President Muhammad Morsi has denounced the Syrian regime as "oppressive" and called for a peaceful transition to democracy in the war-torn country.
Free Syrian Army Claims MiG Fighter Jet Downed RIA Novosti 30 Aug 2012 -- The Free Syrian Army claimed that it had shot down a government MiG-23 fighter jet in the northwestern Idlib Province.
United States Expects Russia to 'Break with Assad' RIA Novosti 30 Aug 2012 -- The United States would like Russia to clearly state that it will stop supplying Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime with weapons.
UN Chief Urges Countries to Stop Supplying Arms to Syria RIA Novosti 30 Aug 2012 -- UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has called for a halt in arms supplies to conflict parties in Syria.
Enhanced global support vital for deepening humanitarian crisis in Syria – UN officials UN News Centre 30 Aug 2012 -- Top United Nations officials raised the alarm on a deepening humanitarian crisis in Syria, where over 2.5 million people now need urgent assistance and protection.
Syria’s Neighbors: Refugee Crisis Unsustainable VOA 30 Aug 2012 -- Syria’s neighbors told the UN Security Council that they need international assistance to meet the growing tragedy.
UN Security Council to Meet on Syria Crisis VOA 29 Aug 2012 -- The United Nations Security Council will hold a high-level session on Thursday to discuss the humanitarian situation in Syria.
Syria's Assad: Government Facing 'Global Battle' VOA 29 Aug 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said his government is fighting a "regional and global battle" and that more time is needed to win the conflict against rebels trying to overthrow him.
Assad Says 'Time Needed To Win' Syrian Fight RFE/RL 29 Aug 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says his troops need more time to win the war against opposition forces.
Debate Continues in Turkey Over Syria, Regional Standing VOA 29 Aug 2012 -- Turkey is not sending top officials to this week's Non-Aligned Movement summit conference in Tehran, where Syria's conflict is likely to be a main topic.
Merkel, Monti Urge Syrian Opposition to Prepare to Take Power RIA Novosti 29 Aug 2012 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti called on the Syrian opposition to prepare to take over power in the country.
Analysis: Palestinian refugees from Syria feel abandoned IRIN 29 Aug 2012 -- In Jordan and Lebanon, the UN agency for Palestine refugees has registered nearly 5,000 Palestinian refugees from the 17-month conflict in Syria.
Syria's Assad Rules out Buffer Zones RIA Novosti 29 Aug 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has dismissed as "unrealistic" Turkey's call for humanitarian buffer zones within Syria to protect refugees.
Moscow Calls for Probe into 'Terrorist Acts' in Syria RIA Novosti 29 Aug 2012 -- Moscow insists that terrorist acts in Syria should be investigated with UN and Arab League representatives.
No Plans to Suspend Mistral Deal over Syria – France RIA Novosti 29 Aug 2012 -- France will not use a $1.2 billion contract to build Mistral class amphibious assault ships for the Russian Navy to put pressure on Moscow over the Syrian issue.
Lebanese FM: Contact group formation helpful to solve Syrian crisis IRNA 29 Aug 2012 -- Visiting Foreign Minister of Lebanon Adnan Mansour welcomed a plan by Egypt's President Mohamed Morsi to form a contact group to settle Syrian crisis calling it a helpful move.
Secretary-General Ban arrives in Tehran, meets with Iranian leaders UN News Centre 29 Aug 2012 -- Secretary-General Ban finished a series of meetings with Iranian officials, including President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.
Kidnapped Iranians in Syria, in good health IRNA 29 Aug 2012 -- Deputy Foreign Minister for Arab and African Affairs Hossein Amir Abdollahian said all Iranians kidnapped in Syria are in good health according to the reliable sources.
Syrians Plan Next Government without Assads VOA 28 Aug 2012 -- A few dozen Syrians have been meeting privately for six months trying to figure out what comes next.
Syrian Crisis Will Not Plunge Lebanon into Chaos, Analysts Say VOA 28 Aug 2012 -- Fears continue to grow that Syria's conflict will spill into neighboring Lebanon, where the government has long been divided into pro- and anti-Assad camps.
Twin Blasts Kill 12 at Funeral in Syria RIA Novosti 28 Aug 2012 -- Twin blasts during a funeral killed 12 people and injured 48 in a predominantly Christian suburb of the Syrian capital Damascus.
Syrian Opposition Asks U.S. to Introduce No-Fly Zone RIA Novosti 28 Aug 2012 -- The Syrian Support Group called on the United States for the first time since the 18-month-old uprising to immediately establish a no-fly zone over Syria.
Syrian dy FM: Separation of north Syria by Kurds a mere rumor IRNA 28 Aug 2012 -- Syrian Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal al-Miqdad strongly denied rumors spread by certain media on separation of north Syria by Kurds.
Numbers of Syrian Refugees Strain Neighboring Countries VOA 28 Aug 2012 -- The United Nations refugee agency says the number of Syrians fleeing to neighboring countries is swelling.
Number of Syrian refugees seeking safety in Jordan doubles and expected to grow – UN UN News Centre 28 Aug 2012 -- The number of refugees fleeing the violence in Syria and seeking humanitarian aid in northern Jordan has more than doubled in the past week alone, the United Nations refugee agency said.
Syrians Fleeing to Jordan Could Signal Larger Influx VOA 28 Aug 2012 -- The United Nations refugee agency says the number of Syrians fleeing to Jordan has doubled in recent days, with 10,200 arriving in the past week, signaling what could be an impending mass movement.
Christian Archbishop In Syria Flees To Lebanon RFE/RL 28 Aug 2012 -- A Christian archbishop has fled Syria after his offices were looted last week amid fighting between rebels and government forces in the country's biggest city.
Yemen’s Peaceful Change Won’t Work in Syria VOA 27 Aug 2012 -- Journalists reported that the Syrian FM hinted that President Bashar al-Assad might be willing to discuss a negotiated departure.
France Warns Assad Against Chemical Weapons Use RFE/RL 27 Aug 2012 -- French President Francois Hollande has warned Syrian President Bashar al-Assad that any use of the country's chemical weapons would be "a legitimate reason for direct intervention."
France Ready to Recognize Syrian Opposition Govt. RIA Novosti 27 Aug 2012 -- French President Francois Hollande called on the Syrian opposition to establish a provisional government and said that France was ready to recognize it.
Syrian Helicopter Downed in Damascus VOA 27 Aug 2012 -- Syrian rebels say they shot down a military helicopter during heavy fighting with government forces in Damascus.
Syrian Helicopter Crashes In Damascus RFE/RL 27 Aug 2012 -- A Syrian military helicopter has crashed after it was apparently hit during fighting between government forces and rebels in the capital, Damascus.
Rebels Shoot Down Syrian Helicopter RIA Novosti 27 Aug 2012 -- The Free Syrian Army rebel group claimed it had shot down a Syrian government-operated military helicopter near Damascus, and posted a video on YouTube of the machine going down in flames.
Damascus Fighting Moves to Eastern Parts of City RIA Novosti 27 Aug 2012 -- The Syrian military has pushed militants with the rebel Free Syrian Army out of the southern Damascus’ region of Daraya.
Palestinians from Syria Twice Displaced VOA 27 Aug 2012 -- A half million Palestinian refugees are registered in Syria and slightly fewer in Lebanon.
Syria: Ban condemns killing of hundreds of civilians in Daraya UN News Centre 27 Aug 2012 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has strongly condemned the killing of hundreds of civilians in the Syrian town of Daraya, and called for an immediate investigation into the incident.
UN Chief Condemns Daraya Killings RIA Novosti 27 Aug 2012 -- United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has condemned the mass killing of civilians in the Damascus suburb of Daraya.
Activists Say Hundreds Massacred in Syria's Daraya VOA 26 Aug 2012 -- Activists said the death toll from a five-day massacre in a town near Damascus has reached at least 320.
Syrian Activists Report Massacre Near Damascus RFE/RL 26 Aug 2012 -- Activists in Syria say the bodies of at least 200 people have been found in a town close to Damascus.
Tripoli's Syria Street Separates Sectarian Clashes VOA 26 Aug 2012 -- A sniper's bullet cracks overhead as Abu Ibrahim crouches into his sandbagged fighting position.
Syrian TV Denies Intelligence Chief Murder RIA Novosti 26 Aug 2012 -- A pro-government Syrian TV channel, al-Dunya, denied media reports that Jamil Hassan, head of Syria’s air force intelligence, had been assassinated.
Syria VP Dispels Defection Rumors VOA 26 Aug 2012 -- Syrian Vice President Farouk al-Sharaa has appeared in public for the first time in weeks, ending speculation that he had defected from President Bashar al-Assad's embattled government.
Boroujerdi discusses latest developments with Syrian Vice-President IRNA 26 Aug 2012 -- Chairman of Majlis Commission on National Security and and Foreign Policy Alaeddin Boroujerdi discussed the latest Syrian developments with Syrian Vice-President Farouk as-Shara.
President Assad: Foreign powers targeting entire Middle East IRNA 26 Aug 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said that the foreigners have not only targeted Syria, but also the entire region.
Syrian Rocket Falls in Jordan RIA Novosti 26 Aug 2012 -- A Syrian rocket fell in a Jordanian border city, the DPA news agency quoted Jordanian government spokesman Samih Maaytah as saying.
Syrian Opposition Warns Of Catastrophe In Homs RFE/RL 25 Aug 2012 -- Syria's main opposition group has urged the United Nations and Arab League to intervene in order to prevent a "catastrophe" in central Homs province.
UN Chief Meets With New Syrian Envoy RFE/RL 25 Aug 2012 -- Lakhdar Brahimi, the new U.N.-Arab League envoy to Syria, has met with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
Why Worry About Syria's WMD? RFE/RL 24 Aug 2012 -- Syria is the first country with weapons of mass destruction to be ripped apart by civil war.
Syrian Crisis Escalates, Refugee Exodus Swells VOA 24 Aug 2012 -- Syrian army bombardments killed at least 21 people in a Damascus suburb Friday and anti-government protests broke out in several other cities.
Turkish Opposition Says Government Ignoring Presence of al-Qaida VOA 24 Aug 2012 -- Turkish political opposition members are claiming that Turkish authorities are turning a blind eye to Islamic militants based in Turkey who are crossing over the border to join the opposition fighting the Assad government in Syria.
Clashes in Lebanon hampering relief operations to assist refugees UN News Centre 24 Aug 2012 -- The deteriorating security situation in Lebanon this week has made it increasingly difficult to provide assistance to thousands of Syrians seeking asylum in the neighbouring country.
US Fears Spillover of Syrian Conflict Into Lebanon VOA 24 Aug 2012 -- Sectarian violence in Syria is spilling across the Lebanese border with new clashes Friday in Tripoli.
New Sectarian Clashes Break Out in Lebanon VOA 24 Aug 2012 -- Another round of sectarian fighting broke out in Lebanon's northern coastal city of Tripoli, overnight, between residents of a Sunni Muslim district and their Alawite neighbors.
Clashes Resume in Northern Lebanese City RIA Novosti 24 Aug 2012 -- Clashes between Sunnis and Alawites resumed on Friday in the northern Lebanese city of Tripoli.
Ban reiterates support for new UN-Arab League envoy on Syrian crisis UN News Centre 24 Aug 2012 -- Secretary-General Ban reiterated his support for the new Joint Special Representative of the United Nations and the League of Arab States on the Syrian crisis, Lakhdar Brahimi.
Damascus Says Ready To Work With Brahimi RFE/RL 24 Aug 2012 -- The Syrian government says it is ready to work with the new international envoy for the country, Lakhdar Brahimi.
Syrian Opposition May Be Ready for Dialogue - Moscow RIA Novosti 24 Aug 2012 -- The Syrian opposition has realized the need to find a way out of the dead end of military confrontation, raising hopes that the crisis in Syria can be resolved peacefully.
Chechen Rebels Not Flocking to Syria – Experts RIA Novosti 24 Aug 2012 -- The death of a legendary Chechen warlord's son in Syria prompted speculation that Russia’s Islamist insurgents may be rushing to join a jihad against President Bashar al-Assad.
UNHCR Says Syria Exodus Tops 200,000 RFE/RL 24 Aug 2012 -- The UN High Commissioner for Refugees says more than 200,000 Syrians have now fled to neighboring countries to escape the country's civil war.
Aleppo No Longer A Safe Haven For Syrian-Born Armenians RFE/RL 24 Aug 2012 -- Gevorg Payasian's father, Asatur, was just 15 years old when he was forced to flee his home in the ancient city of Ayntap in what is now southeastern Turkey.
Syrian Capital Under Siege VOA 23 Aug 2012 -- Parts of Syria's capital under siege with Syrian government forces battling rebels in and around Damascus in pitched fighting.
Lebanon Kidnappings Raise Threat of Syria Conflict Spillover VOA 23 Aug 2012 -- Lebanese clan kidnapped dozens of Syrians and a Turkish businessman last week in a bid to get a captured relative freed in Syria.
Britain Warns On Syrian Chemical Weapons RFE/RL 23 Aug 2012 -- British Prime Minister David Cameron has said the use or threat of chemical weapons by the Syrian government "was completely unacceptable," echoing warnings from U.S. President Barack Obama.
U.S. Fears for Safety of Syrian Chemical Weapons Stockpiles RIA Novosti 23 Aug 2012 -- The United States is concerned with the issue of safety of chemical weapons stockpiles in Syria and views it as one of the areas of importance in dealing with the conflict-hit country.
Syrian Rebels Share Common Goal VOA 23 Aug 2012 -- Rebels fighting the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad are a diverse group, ranging from young civilians with no military experience to seasoned soldiers who defected from the army.
Media Availability with Secretary Panetta Aboard the USS John C. Stennis, Bremerton, Wash. DoD 22 Aug 2012
Few Options for US to End Fighting in Syria VOA 22 Aug 2012 -- In statements at home and abroad, the Obama administration has made its policies toward the Syrian government clear.
UN: Syrian People 'Suffering Grievously' VOA 22 Aug 2012 -- A top United Nations official said that the Syrian people are "suffering grievously" from what he described as the “appalling further militarization” of the conflict in that country.
Syrian Bombings Force Villagers to Flee VOA 22 Aug 2012 -- Stretched to defend several fronts on the ground, Syrian government forces have intensified air attacks on northern towns and villages controlled by rebels of the Free Syrian Army.
Syrian Forces Shell Damascus, 12 Killed VOA 22 Aug 2012 -- Syrian government forces backed by tanks have renewed their attacks in the capital of Damascus, killing at least 12 people.
Up to 10 Dead In Lebanon As Syrian Conflict Spills RFE/RL 22 Aug 2012 -- Up to 10 people have reportedly been killed over the past two days in fighting in Lebanon linked to the conflict in neighboring Syria.
U.S. Skeptical Of Overture On Assad's Exit RFE/RL 22 Aug 2012 -- The United States has expressed deep skepticism about suggestions that the Syrian regime was prepared to discuss the exit of Bashar al-Assad.
Former Chechen Rebel Commander's Son Reported Killed In Syria RFE/RL 22 Aug 2012 -- Reports say the late Chechen rebel field commander Ruslan Gelayev's son has been killed while fighting for the opposition in the Syrian conflict.
Syria – UN official urges international community to boost humanitarian funds UN News Centre 22 Aug 2012 -- The UN humanitarian chief today appealed to the international community to increase its funding to help 2.5 million Syrians in urgent need of basic services.
Over 2.5 Million People in Syria Need Aid - USAID Official RIA Novosti 22 Aug 2012 -- More than 2.5 million people in Syria urgently need aid, a top official at the United States Agency for International Development said.
Russia Blames West for Fueling Armed Conflict in Syria RIA Novosti 22 Aug 2012 -- Moscow accused the West of inciting armed resistance to the regime of President Bashar al-Assad and said violence would not resolve the political crisis in Syria.
Vahidi: Iran strongly defends its territorial integrity IRNA 22 Aug 2012 -- Minister of Defense and Logistics of Armed Forces Brigadier-General Ahmad Vahidi said that Iran is well-prepared to strongly defend its national interests and its territorial integrity.
UN, Arab League appoint Deputy for new representative on Syrian crisis UN News Centre 21 Aug 2012 -- Former Palestinian Authority official Nasser Al-Kidwa will follow up his work as Deputy for Kofi Annan.
Syria: West Looking for Excuse to Send in Troops VOA 21 Aug 2012 -- Syrian Deputy Prime Minister Qadri Jamil says the West is looking for an excuse for military intervention in his country, a move he says would be impossible.
Syria Dismisses Obama Invasion Threat as Election Ploy RIA Novosti 21 Aug 2012 -- Syrian Deputy PN Jamil: US President Barack Obama’s threat to intervene in Syria is an element of his election campaign.
Moscow Defends Syrian Regime Against Threat Of Foreign Interference RFE/RL 21 Aug 2012 -- Russia has defended Syria's government against the threat of foreign interference one day after U.S. President Barack Obama warned that the use of chemical weapons by the Syrian regime would represent a "red line."
Chance Still Left for Syria Reconciliation - Lavrov RIA Novosti 21 Aug 2012 -- A chance still remains for national reconciliation in the conflict in Syria, despite the large number of opponents of that process including those outside the country, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.
Russia Denies Sending Chemical Weapons to Syria RIA Novosti 21 Aug 2012 -- Syria has no Russian-made chemical weapons stockpile, Deputy Director of the Federal Agency for Safe Storage and Destruction of Chemical Weapons Col. Vladimir Mandych said.
ISRAEL-SYRIA: Could a new regime in Syria be good for the Golan Heights? IRIN 21 Aug 2012 -- While conflict rages just kilometers away in Syria, the Israeli-occupied Syrian Golan Heights remains quiet.
Assessing the al-Qaida Presence in Syria VOA 20 Aug 2012 -- Recent newspaper headlines say that al-Qaida or related jihadist groups are flocking into Syria to help the opposition.
Obama Warns Syria on Chemical Weapons VOA 20 Aug 2012 -- President Barack Obama: Movement or use of chemical weapons by the Syrian government would change America's stance toward Syria.
Obama Warns Assad Not To Use or Move Chemical Weapons RFE/RL 20 Aug 2012 -- President Barack Obama says the use or movement of chemical weapons by Syrian President Basher al-Assad’s regime would change the U.S. perspective on how to respond to the crisis.
UN Observers Pull Out of Syria VOA 20 Aug 2012 -- Members of the United Nations observer mission wound down their operation in Damascus Monday, packing their bags and leaving Syria for Lebanon.
UN Observer Mission In Syria Ends RFE/RL 20 Aug 2012 -- The United Nations' observer mission in Syria has officially ended without any sign of a breakthrough on bringing an end to the country's conflict.
Turkey Calls for Syria Buffer Zone RIA Novosti 20 Aug 2012 -- Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu urged the UN on Monday to create a buffer zone for refugees in northern Syria.
Syrian Conflict Gives Kurds New Freedom VOA 20 Aug 2012 -- As fighting intensifies in the Syrian cities of Aleppo and Damascus, the Syrian government has withdrawn its troops from several Kurdish areas in northern Syria.
Briefing: The mounting Syrian refugee crisis IRIN 20 Aug 2012 -- Nearly a year and a half after the start of the Syrian uprising, tens of thousands of people have fled the country.
Syrians Work to Restore Services Amid War VOA 20 Aug 2012 -- Residents in northern Syria are trying to carry on with their lives despite a conflict that has killed thousands of people nationwide since March, 2011.
German spy ship aiding Syrian insurgents: daily IRNA 19 Aug 2012 -- A German spy ship is actively helping western-backed Syrian rebels to topple the Syrian government, according to the Sunday daily Bild am Sonntag.
Assad Appears in Public for Eid Prayers VOA 19 Aug 2012 -- Syrian state television has shown embattled President Bashar al-Assad attending ceremonies for the annual Islamic Eid al Fitr holiday, marking the end of Ramadan. The service took place at a mosque near the presidential palace and most of those attending appeared to be government officials.
Russia Urges Brahimi to Stick to Syria Peace Plan RIA Novosti 18 Aug 2012 -- Moscow hopes that Lakhdar Brahimi, the new UN-Arab League representative for Syria, will follow Kofi Annan's peace plan, the Geneva accords and UN Security Council resolutions, the Foreign Ministry said on Saturday.
Syrian Vice President Defected – Opposition RIA Novosti 18 Aug 2012 -- One of two deputies of embattled Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad fled the country for Jordan, an opposition spokesman said on Saturday, dismissing the government's reports to the contrary.
Clinton Pledges Support to New UN Envoy for Syria RIA Novosti 18 Aug 2012 -- The United States will support peaceful settlement efforts in Syria by new UN and Arab League envoy Lakhdar Brahimi, U.S. State Secretary Hillary Clinton said.
China Welcomes New Syria Envoy RIA Novosti 18 Aug 2012 -- China welcomes the appointment of Lakhdar Brahimi as the UN-Arab League representative for Syria, Foreign Ministry spokesman said on Saturday.
Major Powers Welcome New Syria Envoy RFE/RL 18 Aug 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says the United States is ready to support Lakhdar Brahimi, confirmed on August 17 by the United Nations as the new international mediator on Syria.
Syria - Ahead of mandate's end, UN observer chief renews call for end to violence UN News Centre 18 Aug 2012 -- Ahead of the impending end of the mandate of UN observers in Syria, the force's acting head today reiterated his call on the parties to the Middle Eastern country's ongoing conflict to put down their weapons.
UN, Arab League appoint veteran diplomat to take over Annan's role on Syrian crisis UN News Centre 17 Aug 2012 -- Veteran diplomat Lakhdar Brahimi will be the new Joint Special Representative of the United Nations and League of Arab States for the crisis in Syria, taking over the peace-facilitation role played over the past several months by former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, a spokesperson for the world organization said today.
Algerian Diplomat To Replace Annan As New UN Syria Envoy RFE/RL 17 Aug 2012 -- The United Nations says that Algerian diplomat Lakhdar Brahimi will take over from Kofi Annan as joint UN-Arab League envoy to Syria.
UN Appoints New Syria Envoy RIA Novosti 17 Aug 2012 -- Algeria's former foreign minister Lakhdar Brahimi has replaced Kofi Annan as peace envoy to Syria, the United Nations said on Friday.
Number of displaced people grows as Syria violence continues, says UN agency UN News Centre 17 Aug 2012 -- The humanitarian crisis generated by the ongoing Syrian conflict is rapidly growing as refugees from the Middle Eastern country continue to flee the ongoing violence and spill over into neighbouring areas, the United Nations refugee agency said today.
Clashes, Demonstrations Continue Throughout Syria VOA 17 Aug 2012 -- VOA's Scott Bobb reports from the northern Syrian town of Marea that a demonstration after Friday prayers was held in sympathy for the dozens of people killed or wounded this week when a Syrian fighter jet bombed nearby Azaz.
Syrian Refugee Exodus Escalates VOA 17 Aug 2012 -- The United Nations Refugee Agency says that the Syrian refugee exodus continues to escalate. It says the exodus is particularly significant from Syria's most populous city of Aleppo where fighting continues between government and opposition forces.
Syria: UN observer mission to end, to be replaced by liaison office, official says UN News Centre 16 Aug 2012 -- As fighting rages on in Syria, conditions have not been met to continue the mission of the United Nations observer force there, but Security Council members, meeting on the situation this morning, have agreed to the creation of a liaison office to support efforts for a political solution to the conflict and respect for human rights, a top official of the world body said today.
US, Partners Face Difficult Decisions on Syria Intervention VOA 16 Aug 2012 -- U.S. President Barack Obama continues to face pressure to work with other nations to establish a no-fly zone in Syria to protect civilians and relieve pressure on Syrian rebels. A no-fly zone remains among the options, but experts say it would require careful calculations and difficult decisions.
Syrian Rebels Step Up Efforts to Get Anti-Aircraft Missiles VOA 16 Aug 2012 -- Syrian rebels are redoubling their efforts to acquire portable anti-aircraft missiles following government airstrikes on cities and towns in the north of the country.
Syrian Rebels State Terms for Freeing Iranians VOA 16 Aug 2012 -- The rebel Free Syrian Army (FSA) has laid out conditions for releasing 48 Iranians who were kidnapped in Damascus this month.
OIC Suspends Syria Over Crackdown RFE/RL 16 Aug 2012 -- The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has suspended Syria's membership in the 57-county Muslim bloc, citing President Bashar al-Assad's violent suppression of the country's revolt.
More aid must reach 2.5 million Syrians in dire need, says UN humanitarian chief UN News Centre 16 Aug 2012 -- Some 2.5 million people face destitution in Syria as fighting grows ever more intense in populated areas, the United Nations top relief official said today, calling on the Government and donors to facilitate more aid through non-governmental organizations (NGOs) on the ground.
UN Security Council Ends Syria Mission VOA 16 Aug 2012 -- A day after a bombing near the U.N. observer headquarters in Damascus, the United Nations Security Council decided to end the U.N. monitoring mission in Syria when its mandate expires on Sunday.
UN Security Council: 'Impossible Mission' Awaits Peace Envoy to Syria VOA 15 Aug 2012 -- A senior United Nations official said Wednesday that Kofi Annan's replacement as the U.N.-Arab League peace envoy for Syria faces an impossible job. But French Ambassador Gerard Araud, who is president of the Security Council this month, noted that the United Nations can serve as a neutral channel for possible negotiations.
Panetta Plays Down Syria No-Fly Zone Option RFE/RL 15 Aug 2012 -- U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta has suggested the Pentagon is not seriously considering a no-fly zone in Syria.
Air Strike Kills At Least 20 In Northern Syria; Blast Rocks Damascus RFE/RL 15 Aug 2012 -- The Syrian opposition says at least 20 people have been killed in a government air strike on a rebel bastion in northern Syria.
Syrian Government, opposition forces responsible for war crimes – UN rights panel UN News Centre 15 Aug 2012 -- Syrian Government and opposition forces have perpetrated war crimes and crimes against humanity, according to a new report by the United Nations independent panel probing abuses committed during the country's ongoing conflict.
VOA Reporter: Scores Wounded, Dead in Syrian Bombardment VOA 15 Aug 2012 -- A Syrian warplane bombarded the rebel-controlled northern border town of Azaz on Wednesday, leaving scores wounded and several dozen dead, according to a VOA reporter on the scene.
Syrian Opposition Has Many Faces VOA 14 Aug 2012 -- Rebel forces have been fighting the Syrian government of Bashar al-Assad for nearly 18 months. But many experts and Western politicians say it is unclear who makes up the Syrian opposition.
Panetta: Iran Increases Support to Assad Regime AFPS 14 Aug 2012 -- Iran is increasing its presence in Syria, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said today, through apparent efforts to bolster the Bashar Assad regime by training a militia and other tactics.
UN official urges parties in Syria conflict to heed international humanitarian law UN News Centre 14 Aug 2012 -- Arriving in the Syrian capital of Damascus, the United Nations top relief official today called on the parties in the Middle Eastern country's ongoing conflict to respect international humanitarian law and its provisions.
Syria: UN scales up refugee registration to accelerate access to basic services UN News Centre 14 Aug 2012 -- As hundreds of people continue to flee Syria on a daily basis, the United Nations today announced it is scaling up its capacity to register Syrian refugees in order to facilitate and speed up their access to basic help and services.
Panetta: No Plans for Syria No-Fly Zone VOA 14 Aug 2012 -- U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said Tuesday that the United States has no plans for imposing a no-fly zone over Syria as the government of Bashar al-Assad steps up air attacks on the city of Aleppo.
SYRIA: Palestinians being drawn into the fight IRIN 14 Aug 2012 -- When mortar shells slammed into Yarmouk, Syria's largest Palestinian camp, in early August, killing at least 20 people, many Palestinians in Syria saw it as a wake-up call.
Ex-PM Says Assad Controls Only 30 Percent Of Syria RFE/RL 14 Aug 2012 -- Former Syrian Prime Minister Riyad Hijab, who defected to Jordan last week, has said that Bashar al-Assad's regime controls only 30 percent of the country.
Syrian Ex-PM Says Regime on Verge of Collapse RIA Novosti 14 Aug 2012 -- The regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has lost control of two-thirds of the country and is on the verge of collapse, the BBC quoted ex-Syrian premier Riyad Hijab as saying.
Ex-Syrian PM: Assad Government 'Enemy of God' VOA 14 Aug 2012 -- Former Syrian prime minister, Riad Hijab, appeared publicly Tuesday for the first time since his defection, calling President Bashar al-Assad's government an 'enemy of God' and saying it is collapsing.
UN Says Stream of Syrian Refugees Growing VOA 14 Aug 2012 -- GENEVA — The United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) says the numbers of those fleeing fighting in Syria continue to escalate. The agency has registered 157,577 Syrian refugees who have fled to Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq and Turkey and expects those figures to rise sharply.
Violence increasing in many parts of Syria, taking heavy toll on civilians – UN mission UN News Centre 13 Aug 2012 -- Violence and the indiscriminate use of heavy weapons by the Government as well as targeted attacks by the opposition are increasing in Syria, the head of the United Nations observer force said today, adding that this is taking a heavy toll on innocent civilians.
Syrian Rebels Say Pilot Of Downed Fighter Captured RFE/RL 13 Aug 2012 -- Syrian rebels say they've captured the pilot of a government warplane they claimed to have shot down in eastern Syria.
Syrian Forces Enter Aleppo District RIA Novosti 13 Aug 2012 -- Syrian government troops on Monday stormed the western neighborhood of the rebel-held city of Aleppo using tanks and armored vehicles, the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.
Syrian Rebels Claim MiG Shootdown RIA Novosti 13 Aug 2012 -- Syrian rebels said on Monday they had shot down a government MiG-23 fighter jet in the east of the country.
Syrian Rebels Claim They Shot Down Plane VOA 13 Aug 2012 -- Syrian state media say a pilot ejected Monday after suffering technical problems, while rebels claimed they shot down the government's warplane.
Syrian Authorities Kill Terrorist Ringleader RIA Novosti 12 Aug 2012 -- Syrian authorities have killed one of the ringleaders of al-Nusra Front terrorist group that has been active since the beginning of the national uprising in the country, SANA news agency said on Sunday.
Syrian Activists: Communications Down in Flashpoint City of Aleppo VOA 12 Aug 2012 -- Syrian activists say all communications are down in large parts of the countryside and in the flashpoint city of Aleppo, where government forces reportedly have been pushing rebel forces out of position since last week.
Clinton: U.S., Turkey Considering Syria No-Fly Zones RFE/RL 11 Aug 2012 -- The United States and Turkey are considering imposing no-fly zones and other measures to help rebel forces in strife-torn Syria.
Ban Ki-Moon Backs UN Presence in Syria RIA Novosti 11 Aug 2012 -- UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon has urged UN Security Council to support a continued UN presence in Syria as it would facilitate a peaceful resolution to the political crisis in the violence-torn country.
Turkey, US to Work Closely on Syria VOA 11 Aug 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says Turkey and the U.S. will increase cooperation in support of Syrian rebels fighting President Bashar al-Assad.
Turkey, Iran Show Signs of Deep Division Over Syria VOA 10 Aug 2012 -- Relations between once close allies Iran and Turkey are rapidly deteriorating over Ankara's strong support for Syrian rebels fighting against Iran's key ally, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. In an unprecedented move, Tehran suspended visa-free travel with Turkey for the first time in nearly 50 years.
Covert Smuggling Trail Arms Syrian Rebels VOA 10 Aug 2012 -- Some Western and Arab Gulf powers say they are increasing humanitarian and support aid to the Syrian opposition. At the Turkey-Syria border, the main conduit for foreign aid to rebel fighters, there are signs the aid trail also may include covert arms smuggling.
US Cites Hezbollah Support for Assad in New Sanctions Announcement VOA 10 Aug 2012 -- The United States announced new sanctions targeting the Assad government in Syria and detailed how Hezbollah has supported the Syrian government crackdown on opposition forces.
U.S. Adds Hizballah To Syria Sanctions List RFE/RL 10 Aug 2012 -- The United States has added the Iran-backed militant group Hizballah to its list of organizations sanctioned for ties to the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Syrian State-Run Oil Company Sanctioned under the Iran Sanctions Act US Dept. of State 10 Aug 2012
US to Impose New Sanctions on Syria VOA 10 Aug 2012 -- The United States said it plans new sanctions against the Syrian regime and its supporters, including Lebanon's Hezbollah militants.
Officials Say U.S. To Announce New Sanctions Against Syria's Assad RFE/RL 10 Aug 2012 -- U.S. officials say the United States plans to announce new sanctions targeting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime and its supporters.
Syrian Rebels Pushed out of Key Aleppo District - Army RIA Novosti 10 Aug 2012 -- Syria’s pro-government troops have pushed opposition forces out of the Salaheddin district in Aleppo.
Brahimi Expected To Replace Annan As UN-Arab League Envoy RFE/RL 10 Aug 2012 -- United Nations diplomats say Algeria's former foreign minister, Lakhdar Brahimi, is expected to be named as the new UN-Arab League envoy to Syria.
IRAQ-SYRIA: Iraqi Kurdistan welcomes Syrian brethren, for now IRIN 10 Aug 2012 -- Domiz is already home to more than 2,500 of the 10,000 Syrian refugees who have settled in the autonomous Kurdish region of northern Iraq.
UN refugee agency reports increase in number of people fleeing violence in Syria UN News Centre 10 Aug 2012 -- The United Nations refugee agency today said that its offices in Lebanon, Turkey, Jordan and Iraq have reported increases this week in the number of refugees from Syria.
Tehran conference stresses need for settlement of Syria crisis IRNA 10 Aug 2012 -- Countries participating in Tehran consultative meeting on Syria stressed the need for settlement of crisis there.
FM: Tehran’s meeting on Syria successful IRNA 10 Aug 2012 -- Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi said that the consultative meeting on Syria held in Tehran was successful.
Iran’s Behavior in Syria ‘Destructive’ - U.S. State Dept. RIA Novosti 10 Aug 2012 -- The U.S. State Department has slammed Iran’s behavior in Syria.
Turkish Authorities Disprove Plane Shot Down by Syria RIA Novosti 10 Aug 2012 -- An investigation by Turkish authorities found no evidence that the Turkish reconnaissance aircraft that crashed on June 22 was shot down by Syrian air defense.
US Sees No Renewal of UN Observers in Syria VOA 09 Aug 2012 -- The mandate for the United Nations observer mission in Syria expires August 19.
Ban urges united action at group meeting in Tehran UN News Centre 09 Aug 2012 -- UN Secretary-General Ban reiterated his call for the international community to work together to resolve the ongoing crisis in Syria.
Syrian Rebels Refute Regime Claims, Say Still Hold Southern Gateway To Aleppo RFE/RL 09 Aug 2012 -- Syrian government troops and rebels against President Bashar al-Assad's regime continue to fight for control of the country's largest city of Aleppo.
Fierce Fighting Grips Aleppo VOA 09 Aug 2012 -- Syrian government forces continued their aerial attacks against the besieged commercial center of Aleppo, driving many rebels from the southernmost district of the city in a fierce assault.
Syria's Assad Appoints New Prime Minister RFE/RL 09 Aug 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has appointed a new prime minister.
Bosnian Serbs Call On Foreign Minister To Resign Over Syria Vote RFE/RL 09 Aug 2012 -- Bosnian Serbs have called on the country's foreign minister to resign for instructing Bosnia's representative at the United Nations to support the latest General Assembly resolution condemning the Syrian regime.
Kidnapper of 4 Iranians in Lebanon condemns kidnapping of 48 pilgrims IRNA 09 Aug 2012 -- Inhumane nature of Syrian dissidents’ move in kidnapping 48 pilgrims is so evident that head of Lebanese Flange Party Samir Geagea, whose group kidnapped 4 Iranian diplomats here 30 years ago, condemned the move.
Syrian Government Assault Targets Rebels in Aleppo VOA 08 Aug 2012 -- Syrian government jets and helicopters bombed targets in the besieged northern city of Aleppo.
Syrian Forces Launch Aleppo Assault RIA Novosti 08 Aug 2012 -- Syrian government forces launched a ground assault on the northern city of Aleppo on Wednesday, amid fierce clashes with rebel fighters.
Iran: Retired Revolutionary Guards Among Kidnapped in Syria VOA 08 Aug 2012 -- Iran's Foreign Minister, Ali Akbar Salehi, says some of the 48 Iranians kidnapped by Syrian rebels are retired members of the Revolutionary Guards and the army and were in Damascus on a religious pilgrimage.
Salehi Says Some Iranians Kidnapped In Syria Were Retired Guards RFE/RL 08 Aug 2012 -- Iran's Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi has been quoted as saying that some of the 48 Iranians kidnapped by Syrian rebels are retired members of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and military.
Iran Says Retired Guards among Syria Captives RIA Novosti 08 Aug 2012 -- The Iranian foreign minister confirmed on Wednesday that former members of Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards were among the Iranians captured in Syria.
Tehran Asks UN for Help in Freeing Iranian Hostages in Syria RIA Novosti 08 Aug 2012 -- Tehran has asked the United Nations to free Iranians, who are kept hostage by armed opposition forces in Syria and Libya.
Salehi visits Turkey to consult about kidnapped Iranians in Syria IRNA 08 Aug 2012 -- Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi said his visit to Turkey aims to talk about kidnapped Iranian pilgrims as well as regional issues.
Syria experiencing critical shortage in medicines – WHO UN News Centre 07 Aug 2012 -- The United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) today said that, according to reports it has received, Syria is experiencing critical shortages in medicines and pharmaceutical products.
Iran Sees Syria as Priority Issue VOA 07 Aug 2012 -- WASHINGTON — Syria and Iran strengthened their relations on Tuesday after a top Iranian national security official visited Damascus to pledge Tehran's continued support against Syria's opposition.
Clinton Urges Planning for Post-Assad Syria VOA 07 Aug 2012 -- PRETORIA — U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said the defection of the Syrian prime minister and other officials, as well as escalating fighting around Aleppo, make it 'urgent' to plan for what comes once the regime of Bashar al-Assad falls.
Assad Vows to Rid Syria of 'Terrorists' VOA 07 Aug 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is vowing to purge his country of "terrorists," as security forces continue to fight rebels.
WHO Warns of Severe Medicine Shortage in Syria VOA 07 Aug 2012 -- The World Health Organization is expressing alarm at the deteriorating health situation in Syria as battles escalate.
Iranian Foreign Minister Visits Turkey For Syria Talks RFE/RL 07 Aug 2012 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi is traveling to Turkey for previously unscheduled talks that are expected to focus on the conflict in Syria and the abduction of dozens of Iranians there.
Dpty FM: Iran holds US responsible for lives of 48 kidnapped pilgrims IRNA 07 Aug 2012 -- Deputy IRI Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdolahian said Iran forwarded a letter to USA through its interest section at Swiss Embassy in Tehran on fate of 48 kidnapped Iranian pilgrims in Syria.
U.S. Says Syrian PM's Escape Shows Regime Crumbling RFE/RL 07 Aug 2012 -- The United States says Syrian Prime Minister Riad Hijab's carefully planned escape to Jordan with his extended family shows that Syrian President Bashad al-Assad's regime is beginning to crumble.
Syrian President decries terrorism backed by foreign powers IRNA 06 Aug 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on Tuesday decried terrorism sponsored by foreign powers in Syria.
Defection Highlights Sectarian Divide in Syrian Government VOA 06 Aug 2012 -- The defection of Syria's Sunni Muslim Prime Minister Riad Hijab is the latest sign of a sectarian split in the Alawite-dominated government of President Bashar al-Assad.
Head of UN observer mission voices concern over Aleppo UN News Centre 06 Aug 2012 -- The head of UN observers in Syria spoke out about the ongoing fighting taking place in the Middle Eastern country.
Kurdish Gains in Syria Rattle Turkey VOA 06 Aug 2012 -- Kurds in the north of Syria say they have taken control of most of the region's major towns and cities from government forces.
Syria's Prime Minister Defects, Flees to Jordan VOA 06 Aug 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government suffered a significant blow when Prime Minister Riyad Hijab fled with his family to Jordan.
Syrian Prime Minister Defects As Blast Hits TV-Radio Building RFE/RL 06 Aug 2012 -- Syria's state-run TV says the country's prime minister has been fired after reports that Riyad Hijab has defected to Jordan.
Syrian PM Defects to Join Opposition RIA Novosti 06 Aug 2012 -- Syrian Prime Minister Riyad Hijab emerged in Jordan, saying he had defected from the Assad regime in Damascus and joined the opposition.
Bomb Hits Syria TV in Damascus RIA Novosti 06 Aug 2012 -- The Syrian television and radio building in Damascus has been rocked by a powerful bomb blast.
Iran Denies Syria Captives Are Revolutionary Guards RIA Novosti 06 Aug 2012 -- The Iranian foreign ministry denied on Monday that the 48 Iranians kidnapped in Syria on Saturday were members of the elite Iranian Revolutionary Guards.
Neighboring states to convene in Tehran for consultations on Syria IRNA 06 Aug 2012 -- The neighboring states will convene in Tehran for consultations on Syria, Deputy Foreign Minister for African and Arab Affairs Hossein Amir Abdollahian said.
Saudi King Invites Iran's Ahmadinejad to Discuss Syria RIA Novosti 06 Aug 2012 -- Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad will take part in the meeting of the 57-member pan-Muslim Organization of Islamic Cooperation in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, which will be focused on the Syrian conflict among other topics.
Iran denies kidnapped in Syria were on diplomatic mission IRNA 05 Aug 2012 -- An informed source at Foreign Ministry on Sunday ruled out certain Arab media reports that the Iranian pilgrims kidnapped in Syria were members of Iran's armed forces military.
Aleppo Bombarded, Damascus 'Retaken' By Government Forces RFE/RL 05 Aug 2012 -- Heavy fighting continued in Syria's second city Aleppo, with government forces reportedly using artillery and planes to pound rebel positions.
Syrian Forces Pound Rebel Positions in Aleppo VOA 05 Aug 2012 -- The Syrian army continued attacking rebel positions Sunday in the northern city of Aleppo with heavy shelling and helicopter gunships.
48 Iranians Kidnapped in Syrian Capital VOA 04 Aug 2012 -- State-run media in Tehran say 48 Iranian nationals were kidnapped aboard a bus in Damascus, just a few kilometers from a battle between government troops and rebels fighting against the Assad government.
Syrian Forces Push for Control of Damascus, Aleppo VOA 04 Aug 2012 -- Explosions have rocked the Syrian capital, Damascus, on Saturday, and the northern city of Aleppo as security forces try to push rebels from their remaining strongholds.
As Syria fighting continues, General Assembly urges immediate halt to violence UN News Centre 03 Aug 2012 -- As the fighting in Syria continues unabated, the General Assembly today adopted a resolution condemning the increasing use of heavy weapons by authorities and urging all sides to immediately cease armed violence.
UN General Assembly Criticizes Syria, Security Council VOA 03 Aug 2012 -- The United Nations General Assembly has approved a non-binding resolution that both condemns the Syrian government's use of heavy weapons in the fight against rebel forces and criticizes the U.N. Security Council for failing to agree on measures to stem the violence.
Wounded Syrians Seek Refuge, Treatment in Lebanon VOA 03 Aug 2012 -- TRIPOLI — In Syria, hospitals are a place of danger where President Bashar al-Assad's forces search for protesters and rebels - making it too hazardous for many wounded people to seek treatment. Injured Syrians are instead making a treacherous journey to get medical help in neighboring Lebanon.
Governments React To Syria Envoy Annan's Resignation RFE/RL 03 Aug 2012 -- In the wake of Kofi Annan's announcement that he was resigning as the UN-Arab League special envoy to Syria, several countries have moved to consolidate their roles in international efforts to resolve to the conflict.
UN General Assembly To Vote On Syria Resolution RFE/RL 03 Aug 2012 -- The UN General Assembly is due to vote on a resolution that condemns the Syrian government's use of "heavy weapons" and its failure to withdraw forces from civilian areas.
Washington Blames Russia, China for Annan Mission Failure RIA Novosti 03 Aug 2012 -- The resignation of the UN and Arab League envoy to Syria Kofi Annan highlights the failure of Russia and China to back strong action against Bashar al-Assad's regime, the White House said.
Russia Caught Off Guard on Syria as Annan Leaves – Analysts RIA Novosti 03 Aug 2012 -- After the resignation of the UN Envoy to Syria Kofi Annan, Moscow’s options are limited to buying time and waiting to see how the situation pans out in Syria, Russian analysts and lawmakers said.
Syria regrets Kofi Annan's resignation IRNA 02 Aug 2012 -- Syrian Foreign Ministry in a statement issued Thursday night expressed regret over the resignation of Kofi Annan as the special envoy of the United Nations and the Arab League in Syrian affairs.
Security Council to meet on humanitarian side of Syrian crisis in August UN News Centre 02 Aug 2012 -- With 'military logic winning the day' in Syria and the United Nations observer mission there unlikely to be renewed, the Security Council will consider the plight of the three million Syrians in need of humanitarian aid, the Permanent Representative of France, which hold's the body's rotating presidency for August, said this afternoon.
Syria: amid increase in violence, UN peacekeeping chief warns of 'main battle' in Aleppo UN News Centre 02 Aug 2012 -- The United Nations peacekeeping chief today highlighted the ongoing fighting in the city of Aleppo, noting that UN observers continue to try to carry out their work as the 'spiral of violence' throughout Syria increases.
Al-Qaeda Resurgent In Iraq On The Back Of Syrian Turmoil RFE/RL 02 Aug 2012 -- Al-Qaeda is back in Iraq, a fact underscored by a wave of spectacular attacks this summer.
Syria: Kofi Annan resigns as UN-Arab League Joint Special Envoy UN News Centre 02 Aug 2012 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today announced the resignation of the United Nations-League of Arab States Joint Special Envoy for the Syrian crisis, Kofi Annan.
UN's Annan Draws Sympathy, Criticism as Syria Mission Fails VOA 02 Aug 2012 -- After months of shuttle diplomacy, international envoy Kofi Annan is giving up his bid to resolve Syria's 17-month-long conflict.
White House Dismisses Reports of Aid to Syrian Rebels VOA 02 Aug 2012 -- White House officials on Thursday dismissed reports that President Barack Obama signed an order to send U.S. aid to Syrian anti-government forces. The administration announced it is sending more humanitarian aid to Syria and neighboring countries.
Panetta Pledges Help to Jordan for Syrian Refugees AFPS 02 Aug 2012 -- Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta today pledged to explore ways to continue U.S. help in providing humanitarian aid to those affected by violence in Syria.
IRAQ-SYRIA: As Kurds enter the fray, risk of conflict grows IRIN 02 Aug 2012 -- The flag of Kurdistan is draped over the walls of public buildings in Afrin in northern Syria: After the security forces left the small town near the Turkish border two weeks ago, the Syrian banners have all but disappeared.
Syrian Security Forces Kill At Least 35 In Damascus Suburb Raid RFE/RL 02 Aug 2012 -- Syrian activists say that a raid by government security forces on a Damascus suburb has killed at least 35 people and that some of the victims were tortured and killed execution-style.
Kofi Annan to Quit as UN-Arab League Envoy to Syria RIA Novosti 02 Aug 2012 -- Kofi Annan is quitting his post as the UN and Arab League envoy to Syria, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said on Thursday.
Russia to Oppose UN Assembly Syria Resolution – Foreign Ministry RIA Novosti 02 Aug 2012 -- Russia will not support a UN General Assembly draft resolution on Syria proposed by Bahrain, Egypt and Saudi Arabia, as it 'intrudes into the UN Security Council's prerogatives,' the Foreign Ministry said in a statement issued on Thursday, just a day before the vote is scheduled.
Three million Syrians in need of food, crops and livestock assistance – UN UN News Centre 02 Aug 2012 -- Nearly three million Syrians need food, crops and livestock assistance, according to a recent assessment carried out by the United Nations and the Syrian Government.
UN Syria Envoy Resigns VOA 02 Aug 2012 -- Kofi Annan is stepping down as U,N.-Arab League peace envoy for Syria, United Nations chief Ban Ki-moon announced Thursday as battles raged throughout Syria.
Syrian Conflict Creates Food Insecurity for Millions VOA 02 Aug 2012 -- A new report finds the conflict in Syria is having a devastating impact on the country's food, crop and livestock production. A recent assessment by the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization, the World Food Program and Syria's Ministry of Agriculture notes up to three million people will need assistance during the coming year.
Syrian Rebels Execute Assad Loyalists in Aleppo VOA 01 Aug 2012 -- Syrian rebels have executed four men identified by activists as members of a pro-government tribe in the northern city of Aleppo.
Syria's Assad Urges Forces To Fight, As Aleppo Battle Rages RFE/RL 01 Aug 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has praised his forces for their efforts against what he called "criminal terrorist gangs."
Assad: Army Engaged in Fight for Syria's Fate VOA 01 Aug 2012 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says his army is engaged in a battle against rebels that will determine the fate of the country.
Syria: as UN prepares food relief for Aleppo, renews call for restraint in fighting UN News Centre 01 Aug 2012 -- The UN observer mission in the country renewed its call for the Government and the opposition to refrain from further violence.
Turkey Supplies Syrian Rebels With Air Defense Missiles RIA Novosti 01 Aug 2012 -- Turkey has supplied Free Syrian Army rebels with nearly two dozen man-portable air defense systems.
UN General Assembly to Meet on Syria VOA 31 Jul 2012 -- The United Nations General Assembly is to meet to discuss a Saudi resolution expressing grave concern with the violence in Syria and condemning the Security Council's lack of action.
Could The Syrian Crisis Create An Alawi Ministate? RFE/RL 01 Aug 2012 -- If President Bashar al-Assad's regime is defeated in Syria's war, where will it go? One possibility is to the mountains - to create a ministate of its own.
United States Trying to Make Assad Step Down - State Dept. RIA Novosti 01 Aug 2012 -- The United States is continuing its efforts to have Syrian President Bashar al-Assad resign, State Department spokesman Patrick Ventrell said.

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August 2012 - Syria Special Weapons News