October 2012 - Syria Special Weapons News

Turkey Says Too Soon To Call For Syria No-Fly Zone RFE/RL 31 Oct 2012 -- Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan says it is up to the UN Security Council to decide whether a no-fly zone should be imposed on Syria.
Syria Envoy Brahimi Urges China To Play 'Active Role' RFE/RL 31 Oct 2012 -- The United Nations-Arab League envoy on the Syria crisis has called on China to “play an active role” to try to end the violence in the Middle Eastern nation.
Clinton: SNC No Longer Leads Syrian Opposition VOA 31 Oct 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said that the Syrian National Council can no longer be seen as leading the opposition to embattled Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
US Outlines Vision for New Syrian Opposition VOA 31 Oct 2012 -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says Washington hopes new Syrian opposition talks next week will produce a new rebel leadership that represents those fighting and dying in the country.
Moscow Warns against Assad Ouster RIA Novosti 31 Oct 2012 -- The removal of President Bashar al-Assad from power will do nothing to end the 19-month civil war in Syria but will only escalate the violence, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.
Syrian Air Force Attacks Northern Town After Failed Truce VOA 30 Oct 2012 -- Opposition activists say Syrian warplanes struck a strategic, rebel-held town on the Damascus-Aleppo highway.
Observers: More Than 120 Die in Fighting in Syria Tuesday VOA 30 Oct 2012 -- Syrian opposition backers say fighting and airstrikes across the country killed more than 120 people Tuesday, including a government air force general.
Air Force General Reportedly Killed In Damascus Suburb RFE/RL 30 Oct 2012 -- Syria’s state television says an air force general has been killed in a Damascus suburb.
Top Syrian Air Force General Assassinated in Damascus RIA Novosti 30 Oct 2012 -- A top Syrian Air Force general, Abdullah Mahmud al-Khalidi, was shot dead in northern Damascus.
UN chief voices disappointment at lack of Syria ceasefire UN News Centre 29 Oct 2012 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon voiced deep disappointment that the call for a ceasefire in Syria has not been respected, stressing that more bloodshed will not resolve the crisis.
UN Envoy Says Syria Situation Worsening VOA 29 Oct 2012 -- U.N.-Arab League envoy Lakhdar Brahimi says the situation in Syria is getting worse, and that the international community must unite to help the Syrian people find a solution to the 19-month crisis.
Brahimi Says Syria Crisis 'Bad And Getting Worse' RFE/RL 29 Oct 2012 -- United Nations and Arab League envoy Lakhdar Brahimi has said the crisis in Syria is "bad and it is getting worse."
Syria Talks Must Go On Despite Failed Ceasefire - Brahimi RIA Novosti 29 Oct 2012 -- Negotiations to end the 19-month civil war in Syria should continue, despite the failure of a United Nations-brokered ceasefire.
Air Strikes in Syrian Capital Shatter Truce VOA 29 Oct 2012 -- Syria's Eid al Adha holiday truce is in tatters as Syrian warplanes bombed rebel targets Monday in the Damascus suburbs in what activists say was the fiercest air raid campaign in the capital since the uprising began 19 months ago.
Air Strikes, Clashes in Syria After Truce Bid VOA 28 Oct 2012 -- Syrian activists say government aircraft pounded opposition strongholds on the outskirts of Damascus and troops clashed with rebel fighters in several other areas of the country.
Syrian Truce Enters Third Day RFE/RL 28 Oct 2012 -- A truce in Syria between the government and rebels has entered a third day.
Syrian Death Toll Rises to 50 Despite Cease-fire VOA 27 Oct 2012 -- The Syrian government and opposition activists have traded blame for a series of deadly attacks that have strained a fragile cease-fire.
More Deaths Reported In Syria Despite Truce RFE/RL 27 Oct 2012 -- Syrian activists say fresh clashes have claimed more lives on the second day of a barely observed cease-fire to mark Islam's Eid al-Adha holiday.
UN Security Council Refuses to Condemn Damascus Blast RIA Novosti 27 Oct 2012 -- The UN Security Council has rejected a Russian initiative to condemn the recent terrorist attack in Damascus that killed nearly 50 people following the announcement of a ceasefire across Syria.
Syria Truce Marred By Clashes RFE/RL 26 Oct 2012 -- A series of clashes are being reported in Syria in violation of a cease-fire to mark the Islamic Eid al-Adha holiday.
At Least 5 Killed, Over 30 Injured in Damascus Bomb Blast VOA 26 Oct 2012 -- A car bomb exploded near a mosque and a children's playground in Damascus, killing at least five people and wounding more than 30 others.
Iranian Foreign Ministry issues statement on truce in Syria IRNA 26 Oct 2012 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry issued a statement on the agreement of the Syrian army with temporary ceasefire in Syrian, expressing hope that the truce will be prelude to beginning of a political process in Syria.
US Denies Russian Allegation of Military Supplies to Syrian Rebels VOA 25 Oct 2012 -- The US is denying a Russian allegation that it is helping supply weapons to rebels fighting embattled Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
US Coordinates MANPADS Supplies to Syrian Rebels - Russia RIA Novosti 25 Oct 2012 -- The United States does not supply Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s opponents with man-portable air defense systems but provides coordination and logistics support to such supplies.
Ban welcomes reports of Syria ceasefire being observed for Eid holiday – UN spokesperson UN News Centre 25 Oct 2012 -- United Nations Secretary-General Ban has welcomed reported announcements of warring parties in Syria agreeing to observe a ceasefire.
Syria Declares Eid Cease-Fire Through Monday VOA 25 Oct 2012 -- The Syrian army says it will suspend military operations to mark the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, declaring a cease-fire from Friday morning to Monday.
Syria Declares Eid Cease-Fire VOA 25 Oct 2012 -- The Syrian army says it will suspend military operations to mark the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, declaring a cease-fire from Friday morning to Monday.
Both Sides Say Will Observe Syria Cease-Fire RFE/RL 25 Oct 2012 -- The rebel Free Syrian Army says it will observe a cease-fire for the Muslim religious holiday of Eid al-Adha, which begins on October 27.
Syria Announces Eid al-Adha Holiday Ceasefire RIA Novosti 25 Oct 2012 -- The Syrian military command announced it would cease military operations across the country during the Eid al-Adha holiday, which begins on Thursday and continues through the weekend.
On eve of proposed truce in Syria, UN ready to provide humanitarian aid to thousands of families UN News Centre 25 Oct 2012 -- The United Nations refugee agency and its partners stand ready to send pre-positioned emergency aid packages to families in previously inaccessible areas of Syria.
UN Security Council Urges Syria Truce RFE/RL 25 Oct 2012 -- The United Nations Security Council has called on the Syrian government and rebel groups to accept a four-day truce proposal.
Del Ponte Cites 'Crimes Against Humanity' In Syria RFE/RL 25 Oct 2012 -- Former UN prosecutor Carla del Ponte has said she wants to identify high-level Syrian officials who may have been involved in war crimes.
Syrian Refugees Struggle in Jordanian Camps VOA 25 Oct 2012 -- Jordan is bearing a huge burden of refugees as the crisis escalates in neighboring Syria.
Russia: Syrian Rebels Have US-Made Anti-Aircraft Weapons VOA 24 Oct 2012 -- Russia’s senior general says that rebels in Syria have acquired shoulder-mounted surface-to-air missiles.
Syrian Rebels Have US Stinger Missiles - Russian General RIA Novosti 24 Oct 2012 -- Syrian rebels fighting President Bashar al-Assad's regime are now armed with man-portable air defense systems including US-made Stingers.
Syria: some parties to conflict expected to observe ceasefire UN News Centre 24 Oct 2012 -- Some of the warring parties in the conflict in Syria are expected to observe a ceasefire later this week.
UN Envoy Expects Syrian Government to Observe Holiday Truce VOA 24 Oct 2012 -- Lakhdar Brahimi told the U.N. Security Council that he expects the Syrian government to confirm to him by Thursday whether it will abide by a truce with opposition fighters during the Muslim Eid al-Adha holiday.
UN Envoy: Syria, Some Rebels Agree to Holiday Truce VOA 24 Oct 2012 -- International envoy Lakhdar Brahimi says the Syrian government and some rebel groups opposed to President Bashar al-Assad have agreed to a cease-fire during the Eid al-Adha holiday.
UN Envoy Says Syrian Authorities Agree To Holiday Truce RFE/RL 24 Oct 2012 -- UN and Arab League envoy to Syria, Lakhdar Brahimi, says the Syrian government and some rebel groups have tentatively agreed to a truce during the Eid al-Adha holiday.
Many Turks Concerned with Erdogan's Syria Policy VOA 24 Oct 2012 -- As fighting drags on in Syria, the Turkish government continues to stand behind its campaign to oust Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Analysis: Not-so-open borders for Syrian refugees? IRIN 24 Oct 2012 -- Aid agencies, human rights organizations and local government officials are increasingly concerned about thousands of people who have fled violence in Syria only to end up stuck at border crossings.
Lebanon Fights for Calm as Syria War Rages VOA 24 Oct 2012 -- Lebanese politicians and their allies in the West are urging calm after the killing of an intelligence chief set off sectarian violence and fears the nation could be further dragged into the conflict in neighboring Syria.
Hopes Dim for Syrian Cease-Fire VOA 23 Oct 2012 -- A Syrian rights group says government warplanes have attacked a strategic rebel-held northern town in the latest setback to international efforts to secure a cease-fire during a Muslim holiday that begins this week.
Ahead of possible truce, UN refugee agency pre-positions relief supplies to reach more Syrians UN News Centre 23 Oct 2012 -- The United Nations refugee agency said it has pre-positioned thousands of emergency relief supplies in Aleppo in anticipation of a possible truce during Eid al-Adha.
UN: 100,000 Syrian Refugees In Lebanon RFE/RL 23 Oct 2012 -- The UN refugee agency says there are now more than 100,000 Syrian refugees in Lebanon.
Blast Rips Through Syrian Capital VOA 22 Oct 2012 -- A car bomb exploded in central Damascus, killing 13 people in the Syrian capital as U.N.-Arab League envoy Lakhdar Brahimi pressed President Bashar al-Assad to institute a cease-fire later this week.
Jordanian Solider Killed as Syrian Conflict Spreads VOA 22 Oct 2012 -- A Jordanian soldier was killed in clashes with armed militants trying to cross the border into Syria as the Arab League downplayed chances for a truce during this week's Eid al-Adha holiday.
Syrian Conflict Part of Mideast 'Geopolitical Game' – Lavrov RIA Novosti 22 Oct 2012 -- Some countries are apparently interested in fueling violence in Syria as part of a “geopolitical remapping” of the Middle East, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.
Blast in Syrian Capital Kills 13 VOA 21 Oct 2012 -- A taxi rigged with explosives blew up near a police station in Syria's capital Sunday, killing 13 people and wounding 29.
At Least Ten Dead in Damascus Car Bomb Blast RIA Novosti 21 Oct 2012 -- At least ten people have been killed after a car bomb exploded near a police station in the Syrian capital.
UN Envoy On Syria Meets With Assad RFE/RL 20 Oct 2012 -- The international envoy on Syria Lakhdar Brahimi has been meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad as his diplomatic mission continues.
Brahimi Meets Syrian Officials To Discuss Truce Proposal RFE/RL 20 Oct 2012 -- International mediator Lakhdar Brahimi has met with Syria's Foreign Minister Walid al-Moualem in Damascus to press for a brief ceasefire between President Bashar al-Assad's forces and rebels.
International Peace Envoy Brahimi in Damascus VOA 20 Oct 2012 -- The Syrian government says talks on Saturday between international peace envoy Lakhdar Brahimi and the country's foreign minister were "serious" and "constructive."
Syria Discloses List of Foreign Prisoners RIA Novosti 20 Oct 2012 -- Syria has handed the United Nations a list of 108 foreign citizens arrested by the Syrian authorities over their alleged involvement in terrorism.
UN cautions effect of Syria conflict on neighbors IRNA 20 Oct 2012 -- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon warned about the effect of the Syrian civil war on the neighboring states, including Lebanon.
US Considers No-Fly Zone in Syria VOA 19 Oct 2012 -- The Obama administration says it is still considering a no-fly zone for northern Syria as cross-border shelling with Turkey threatens civilians on both sides.
Syrian Rebels Bogged Down in Aleppo VOA 19 Oct 2012 -- For months, rebels of the Free Syrian Army have been waging battles with government forces in parts of Syria's most populous city, Aleppo.
Syria: Call for Ceasefire During Eid al-Adha US Dept. of State 19 Oct 2012
UN chief and head of Arab League call for ceasefire in Syria during Muslim holiday UN News Centre 19 Oct 2012 -- The Secretaries-General of the United Nations and the League of Arab States called on all warring parties in Syria to heed the call for a ceasefire in all its forms during the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha.
International Peace Envoy Brahimi Arrives in Damascus VOA 19 Oct 2012 -- International peace envoy Lakhdar Brahimi arrived in Damascus Friday for talks with Syrian officials on securing a temporary cease-fire in the 19-month-old conflict between Syrian forces and rebel groups.
Senior UN official concerned over killing of Syrian children amidst ongoing violence UN News Centre 19 Oct 2012 -- A United Nations senior official today expressed serious concern over the killing and maiming of children in Syria, particularly by Government forces.
As violence continues in Syria, UNICEF reaches out to displaced children UN News Centre 19 Oct 2012 -- Efforts to assist the growing numbers of displaced children in Syria are continuing despite the escalating violence across the country and a large funding gap.
VOA, BBC Broadcasts Jammed from Syria VOA 19 Oct 2012 -- A satellite provider for Voice of America and the BBC says broadcasts in the Middle East and Europe were deliberately jammed this week by interfering signals coming from Syria.
UN Rights Chief Says Syria Conflict Widening VOA 18 Oct 2012 -- United Nations Human Rights Chief, Navi Pillay warns Syria's civil war is threatening to engulf the region in conflict.
43 Killed By Airstrikes in Northern Syria, Activists Say VOA 18 Oct 2012 -- Syrian activists and medical officials say a series of government air strikes on rebel areas in the country's north has killed at least 43 people, including many children.
Airstrikes in Northern Syria Kill at Least 20 VOA 18 Oct 2012 -- Syrian activists and medics say a series of government air strikes on rebel areas in the country's north has killed at least 20 people.
Bomb Explodes Near Interior Ministry in Damascus RFE/RL 18 Oct 2012 -- A bomb attached to a motorcycle has exploded near Syria's Interior Ministry and intelligence headquarters in Damascus, causing an unspecified number of casualties.
UN Syria Envoy to Make Truce Bid RIA Novosti 18 Oct 2012 -- United Nations and Arab League special envoy to Syria Lakhdar Brahimi is to visit Damascus in a bid to forge a truce agreement in the country during the Eid festival period.
Turkey ‘Admits’ Russian Air Cargo Legal RIA Novosti 18 Oct 2012 -- The Turkish authorities recognize the legitimacy of the cargo seized from a Moscow-Damascus passenger plane but have a problem with its processing.
Analysis: Syria and the regional food chain IRIN 18 Oct 2012 -- The Syrian crisis has disrupted food imports and exports in the region, raising food prices in Jordan, Iraq and Turkey.
Press Conference on Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria, 16 October 2012 United Nations 16 Oct 2012
Syria Envoy Brahimi Warns Conflict Could Spread VOA 17 Oct 2012 -- International mediator Lakhdar Brahimi says Syria's civil war could spread across Middle Eastern borders into an "all-consuming conflict" unless the violence is eventually contained.
France Reiterates Syria Cluster Bomb Charge RIA Novosti 17 Oct 2012 -- Paris has evidence of Syrian government troops using cluster bombs, French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said.
Russia 'Will Not Be Dictated To' On Arms Sales RFE/RL 17 Oct 2012 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that only the United Nations Security Council can restrict Russian weapons sales abroad.
Head of UN independent panel urges diplomatic solution to worsening Syria conflict UN News Centre 16 Oct 2012 -- The Syrian crisis can only be resolved through diplomatic means, the head of a United Nations-backed inquiry urged.
Syrian Warplanes Shell Town Seized by Rebels VOA 16 Oct 2012 -- Syrian activists say government warplanes have shelled a strategic town seized by rebels last week, while the Syrian army clashed with opposition fighters outside the capital.
US Urges Russia to Take More Action on Syria RIA Novosti 16 Oct 2012 -- The United States wants Russia to get more involved in the settlement of the Syrian conflict, US State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said.
Jordan Bears Burden of Syria Refugees VOA 16 Oct 2012 -- As Syrians flee from a deadly civil war between rebel forces and President Bashar al-Assad’s military, neighboring countries are struggling to take care of more than 450,000 refugees.
As Syrians continue to flee, UN urges European Union to uphold asylum principles UN News Centre 16 Oct 2012 -- The United Nations urged European Union member States to adhere to their asylum principles as the number of Syrians seeking refuge in these countries has started to grow.
Armenian Humanitarian Aircraft Lands in Aleppo RIA Novosti 16 Oct 2012 -- An Armenian aircraft carrying humanitarian aid for Syria has landed in the northwestern Syrian city of Aleppo, the Armenian Foreign Ministry said.
EU Strengthens Sanctions On Iran, Syria RFE/RL 15 Oct 2012 -- European Union foreign ministers meeting in Luxembourg have adopted new economic sanctions against Iran and Syria and maintained existing measures against Belarus.
U.S. Continues to Send Nonlethal Aid to Syrian Opposition AFPS 15 Oct 2012 -- The United States will continue to funnel nonlethal aid to the Syrian opposition, and urges the international community to unite against Bashar Assad’s regime.
Syria: UN-Arab League envoy calls for ceasefire during upcoming Islamic holiday UN News Centre 15 Oct 2012 -- The Joint Special Representative of the United Nations and the League of Arab States on the Syrian crisis, Lakhdar Brahimi, appealed to Iranian authorities to assist in achieving a ceasefire in Syria during the upcoming Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha.
UN Envoy Asks Iran for Help with Syrian Cease-Fire VOA 15 Oct 2012 -- The United Nations-Arab League envoy for Syria has called for Iran's help in establishing a cease-fire during the upcoming Muslim holiday Eid al-Adha.
UN Envoy Urges Syrian Truce For Muslim Holiday RFE/RL 15 Oct 2012 -- International mediator Lakhdar Brahimi has called for a temporary cease-fire in Syria during the four-day Eid al-Adha Muslim holiday later this month.
FM: IR Iran provided Brahimi with plan for resolving Syria’s crisis IRNA 15 Oct 2012 -- Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi said that he has provided the UN and Arab League joint envoy on Syria, Lakhdar Brahimi, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Turkey with a written unofficial plan for resolving the Syrian crisis.
Armenian Plane Landing in Turkey Planned, Minister Says RIA Novosti 15 Oct 2012 -- A landing in Turkey by an Armenian An-12 cargo aircraft carrying humanitarian aid to Syria was planned.
Syria Denies Cluster Bomb Allegations VOA 15 Oct 2012 -- The Syrian army slammed Human Rights Watch allegations that in recent days it has begun widespread attacks using Russian-made, banned cluster bombs.
FM Lavrov Denies Use of Russian-made Cluster Bombs in Syria RIA Novosti 15 Oct 2012 -- Russian FM Lavrov denied information from the leading human rights organization that Syrian authorities used Russian-made cluster bombs against rebels.
Turkey Bans Syrian Flights From Airspace, After Syrian Ban RFE/RL 14 Oct 2012 -- over their refusal to support firm UN action on the Syrian crisis.
Syrian Troops Kill Saudi Officer in Mop-Up Operation RIA Novosti 14 Oct 2012 -- Syria's government troops have killed a Saudi military officer in a mop-up operation in the northwestern province of Idlib, Press TV reported on Sunday, citing Syrian media.
Turkey Dismisses Security Dialog with Syria RIA Novosti 14 Oct 2012 -- Turkey's Foreign Minister has called on Syria to resolve its internal problems before any further dialog on security issues with Ankara is considered.
UN-Arab League envoy holds talks on Syrian crisis with Turkish officials UN News Centre 14 Oct 2012 -- The Joint Special Representative of the United Nations and the League of Arab States on the Syrian crisis, Lakhdar Brahimi, has just concluded a visit to Turkey where he discussed the continuing violence in Syria with President Abdullah Gul and Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu.
Turkey Bans Syrian Passenger Planes From Its Airspace VOA 14 Oct 2012 -- Turkey says it has banned Syrian passenger planes from Turkish airspace in the latest sign of growing confrontation between the two neighbors.
U.S. Says Moscow 'Morally Bankrupt' On Syria RFE/RL 13 Oct 2012 -- The Obama administration has accused Russia of pursuing a "morally bankrupt" policy on Syria.
Syria Ready to Ease Tensions with Turkey – Foreign Ministry RIA Novosti 13 Oct 2012 -- Syria is ready to start direct dialogue with Turkey to ease tensions between the two countries, Syrian Foreign Ministry said in a statement circulated by local media on Saturday.
Syrian Rebels Capture Government Air Base - Activists RIA Novosti 13 Oct 2012 -- Syrian rebels on Friday seized a state air defense base east of the northern city of Aleppo, as government forces fought militants across the country, Qatar-based broadcaster Al Jazeera quoted activists as saying.
US Blasts Russian Stance on Syria as 'Morally Bankrupt' RIA Novosti 13 Oct 2012 -- The US State Department on Friday accused Russia of a 'morally bankrupt' policy in Syria, two days after Turkey intercepted a Syrian passenger jet headed from Moscow to Damascus over suspicions it had military equipment on board.
Turkey Condemns UN for Inaction in Syria VOA 13 Oct 2012 -- Turkey's prime minister lashed out against the U.N. Security Council Saturday for inaction in Syria.
Russia Denies Syria Plane had Weapons on Board RIA Novosti 12 Oct 2012 -- Russia's foreign minister said on Friday that a Moscow-Damascus passenger airliner forced to land in Turkey over suspicions it had weapons on board was legally carrying Russian radar parts.
UN-Arab League envoy discusses Syrian crisis with Saudi King UN News Centre 12 Oct 2012 -- The Joint Special Representative of the United Nations and the League of Arab States on the Syrian crisis, Lakhdar Brahimi, today discussed the situation in Syria with the King of Saudi Arabia, Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, during a meeting in the city of Jeddah.
UN and partners step up efforts to protect Syrian refugees during winter months UN News Centre 12 Oct 2012 -- The United Nations refugee agency today said it is boosting its efforts to protect tens of thousands of uprooted Syrians during the cold weather expected throughout the upcoming winter months.
Rebels, Troops Clash Over Air Base in Syria VOA 12 Oct 2012 -- Syrian rebels have clashed with government troops over control of an air defense base near the country's most populous city.
Turkey: Syria Plane Was Carrying Russian-Made Munitions RFE/RL 11 Oct 2012 -- Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan has said a Syrian passenger plane forced to land in Ankara was carrying equipment and ammunition destined for Syria's Defense Ministry.
Russia Protests Grounding of Syria-Bound Plane RIA Novosti 11 Oct 2012 -- Russia expressed a thinly veiled protest on Thursday at the grounding by Turkish authorities of a Moscow-Damascus passenger jet over accusations it was carrying 'illegal cargo.'
Saudi Diplomat Denies 'Ukraine Arms in Syria' Report RIA Novosti 11 Oct 2012 -- The Saudi ambassador to Ukraine has dismissed a news report which claimed that Ukraine-made weapons had been shipped by his country to arm Syrian opposition forces, Saudi media said.
Turkey Permits Syrian-bound Aircraft to Resume its Course RIA Novosti 11 Oct 2012 -- Turkey has issued a permission for a Syrian-bound passenger aircraft, which it earlier forced to land in Ankara, to resume its course, Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu told local TV.
Turkey Says Syrian Plane Contained Ammunition VOA 11 Oct 2012 -- Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan says the cargo Turkey seized from a Syrian passenger plane that was forced to land in Ankara contained military equipment and ammunition destined for Syria's government.
French Suspects Planned to Join Militants in Syria VOA 11 Oct 2012 -- French authorities say a group of suspected radical Islamists posed the biggest danger to France in years and were planning to join militants in Syria.
State TV Says Turkey Forces Syrian Plane to Land in Ankara VOA 10 Oct 2012 -- Turkish state-run television says Turkey has forced a Syrian passenger plane to land in Ankara on suspicion that it was carrying weapons to Syria.
Turkish Military Chief Warns Against Further Syrian Shelling VOA 10 Oct 2012 -- The head of Turkey's armed forces says the military will respond with greater force if shelling from Syria continues to spill across the border.
Iranian diplomat says Iran has not sent arms to Syria via Iraq IRNA 10 Oct 2012 -- Iran's consul in Basra Hamid-Reza Mokhtasabadi on Wednesday ruled out rumors that Iran had shipped arms to Syria via Iraq.
Ban condemns coordinated bombings in Syrian capital, urges move towards dialogue UN News Centre 10 Oct 2012 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon strongly condemned the string of coordinated terrorist bombings in the Syrian capital of Damascus on Monday night that resulted in numerous deaths and injuries, urging all sides to move towards a political transition and dialogue.
UN chief seeks unilateral ceasefire from Syria's Assad, with rebels following suit UN News Centre 09 Oct 2012 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called on the Syrian Government to take the initiative in declaring an immediate unilateral ceasefire, and on the opposition to then accede to it, in a renewed bid to end what he called a 'regional catastrophe with global ramifications.'
Probe Urged into 'Ukraine Arms in Syria' Reports RIA Novosti 09 Oct 2012 -- Ukraine should launch an inquiry into reports that Syrian rebels have Ukrainian weapons, a senior Ukrainian MP said on Tuesday.
Twin Suicide Blasts Target Syrian Intelligence Base VOA 09 Oct 2012 -- A group that claims to have ties to al-Qaida says it carried out twin suicide car bombings against a Syrian government intelligence headquarters in a Damascus suburb early Tuesday.
Turkish President Urges International Action On Syria RFE/RL 08 Oct 2012 -- Turkish President Abdullah Gul has said that the "worst-case scenario" is unfurling in Syria and urged the international community to act.
Citing Syria, Ban tells forum that governments around the world must heed demands of their people UN News Centre 08 Oct 2012 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today urged governments – in particular those undergoing transitions in North Africa and the Middle East – to meet the demands of their people and promote economic and social development.
UN and Lebanon review winter needs of growing number of Syrian refugees UN News Centre 08 Oct 2012 -- With rising numbers of Syrian refugees pouring into Lebanon as winter approaches, a senior United Nations official today reviewed with the country's premier the need for international financial aid and humanitarian arrangements to tackle the influx.
Syria's Internally Displaced On the Rise VOA 08 Oct 2012 -- Hundreds of thousands of Syrians have fled their nation's civil war and their numbers keep growing. Many are in the camps of neighboring countries
Turkey Again Returns Fire After Syrian Mortar Attack VOA 08 Oct 2012 -- Turkey launched a new retaliatory strike Monday after a mortar bomb fired from Syria hit the Turkish countryside as U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon warned of 'extremely dangerous' fallout from the escalating border conflict.
Car Bomb Kills One in Syrian Capital VOA 07 Oct 2012 -- A powerful car bomb has killed at least one person near police headquarters in Syria's capital.
Turkish Army Returns Fire After New Syrian Mortar Strike RFE/RL 06 Oct 2012 -- Another mortar shell from Syria has struck Turkish territory, prompting a fourth day of retaliatory artillery fire from Turkey.
Free Syrian Army Fighters Killed on Lebanon's border RIA Novosti 06 Oct 2012 -- Dozens of fighters of Free Syrian Army (FSA) have been killed in a large-scale operation of government forces in Homs province, near the border with Lebanon, Lebanon-based Al-Mayadeen TV reported on Saturday.
Turkey Says Syria Fires Again Across Border VOA 06 Oct 2012 -- Turkish state media say another round of mortar fire from Syria has landed in southern Turkey.
Turkey Warns Syria About Cross-Border Attacks VOA 05 Oct 2012 -- Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan is warning Syria against carrying out more attacks on Turkish soil.
Turkish-Syrian Border Quiet After Deadly Attack VOA 05 Oct 2012 -- Turkish forces are patrolling near the Syrian border following a deadly attack earlier this week.
Erdogan: Turkey does not want war with Syria IRNA 04 Oct 2012 -- Turkey’s Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Turkey does not want to engage in a war with Syria, but on the contrary Ankara only wants peace and security in the Middle East region.
Turkey-Syria war against interests of Muslim Ummah: IRI Staff Chief IRNA 04 Oct 2012 -- Worsening of Turkey and Syria conflict is against the interests of Muslim Ummah and will only benefit the US, Iran's Armed Forces Chief of Staff Major General Hassan Firouzabadi said.
Pres. Gul: Iran-Turkey relations to contribute to regional peace, stability IRNA 04 Oct 2012 -- Turkey’s President Abdullah Gul said in his meeting with IRI Veep Mohammad-Reza Rahimi, “I hope Iran-Turkey relations would contribute to establishment of peace, tranquility, stability, and well being for regional nations.”
Turkey Warns Syria Against Further Attacks RIA Novosti 05 Oct 2012 -- Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan has said that his country has no plans to start a war but would act with determination to defend its citizens and borders.
Turkey Warns Syria Against 'Testing Patience' RIA Novosti 05 Oct 2012 -- Turkey does not want a war with Syria but cannot rule out armed conflict, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said.
Iraqi Inspection of Iranian Flights US Dept. of State 05 Oct 2012
Syrians Take Refuge in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley VOA 05 Oct 2012 -- As refugees continue streaming out of Syria to escape the violence of the civil war, tens of thousands of them are taking shelter in Lebanon, many in towns like this one near the frontier in the Bekaa Valley.
Syrian Christians Caught in Sectarian Fears VOA 05 Oct 2012 -- Syria's conflict is sometimes cast as a religious one, between the Sunni majority and the leadership of an Alawite minority.
Syria: UN Security Council condemns terrorist attacks in Aleppo UN News Centre 05 Oct 2012 -- The members of the United Nations Security Council condemned “in the strongest terms” the terrorist attacks which took place in the Syrian city of Aleppo.
UN Security Council Condemns Syria Attack on Turkey RIA Novosti 05 Oct 2012 -- The UN Security Council has issued a statement strongly condemning a recent shelling of a Turkish town by Syria that killed five civilians and called on Damascus to respect sovereignty of its neighbors.
UN Security Council Condemns Deadly Syrian Attack on Turkey VOA 04 Oct 2012 -- The U.N. Security Council has condemned a deadly Syrian artillery strike on a Turkish border town "in the strongest terms."
Turkey Approves Possible Further Action Against Syria VOA 04 Oct 2012 -- The Turkish parliament has approved a government motion to authorize further military operations outside the country's borders.
Turkish Military Action Heightens Regional Tensions VOA 04 Oct 2012 -- The military exchange between Turkey and forces in Syria threatens to inflame the region.
Turkey Approves Possible Further Action Against Syria VOA 04 Oct 2012 -- The Turkish parliament has voted to authorize further military operations outside its borders after it struck Syrian targets.
Turkish Parliament Approves Syria Military Action RFE/RL 04 Oct 2012 -- The Turkish parliament has authorized cross-border military operations in neighboring Syria.
Turkey Seeks Clearance for Cross-border Strikes on Syria RIA Novosti 04 Oct 2012 -- The Turkish government sought authorization from parliament to conduct, if necessary, more cross-border operations against Syria hours after Ankara fired artillery at targets inside Syria.
Turkey Renews Syria Strikes After Deadly Cross-Border Shelling VOA 04 Oct 2012 -- Turkey is continuing its response to a deadly Syrian mortar attack, launching artillery strikes into Syria for a second straight day.
Press Secretary Calls Syria’s Actions ‘Wrong, Deplorable’ AFPS 04 Oct 2012 -- The United States stands with its NATO ally Turkey in Ankara's response to a Syrian cross-border mortar attack that killed five Turkish civilians yesterday, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said.
EU Condemns Syria Shelling in Turkey RIA Novosti 04 Oct 2012 -- The EU's chief diplomat Catherine Ashton strongly condemned on Thursday Syria’s shelling of a Turkish border village, urging both countries to show restraint.
UN chief urges restraint amid rising tensions along Syrian-Turkish border UN News Centre 04 Oct 2012 -- United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon voiced his alarm at escalating tensions along the Syrian-Turkish border, and called on all concerned to exercise maximum restraint.
UN Chief: Syria Violence May Engulf Neighbors RIA Novosti 04 Oct 2012 -- UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said the ongoing conflict in Syria endangers the surrounding region after a Syrian attack on Turkey that killed at least five civilians and wounded a dozen more.
Syria's Aleppo: Wracked by Suffering, Enveloped in Fear VOA 04 Oct 2012 -- VOA's Scott Bobb traveled to the war-torn northern Syrian city of Aleppo Thursday and left with vivid impressions of a complex community wracked by suffering and fear.
Russian FM calls for restraint after Syrian firing into Turkey's territory IRNA 04 Oct 2012 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed shock at the casualties in cross border shelling into Turkey by the Syrian forces and called for restraint.
Ahmadinejad: No one can decide on behalf of Syrian nation IRNA 04 Oct 2012 -- President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said ending Syrian crisis basically is possible thru national understanding.
Ban encourages Turkey to keep open communication channels with Syria UN News Centre 03 Oct 2012 -- United Nations Secretary-General Ban expresses his deepest concern at the incident in the town of Akcakale near the Syrian border.
Turkey Says Attacks Syria Targets After Deadly Mortar Attack RFE/RL 03 Oct 2012 -- Turkey says its military has attacked targets inside neighboring Syria after mortar fire from Syria struck inside Turkey and killed five Turkish civilians and wounded about a dozen more.
Turkey Strikes Syria VOA 03 Oct 2012 -- Turkey says its armed forces have fired on targets inside Syria in retaliation for a Syrian mortar attack that killed five Turkish civilians in a Turkish border town.
At Least 40 Killed as Car Bombs Strike Syria VOA 03 Oct 2012 -- Four massive explosions ripped through a government-controlled section of Syria's largest city, Aleppo, killing at least 40 people and wounding nearly 100 others.
At Least 40 Reportedly Killed By Triple Bombing In Aleppo RFE/RL 03 Oct 2012 -- Reports from Syria's northern city of Aleppo say some 40 people have been killed and 90 injured by three car bombs that exploded in a government-controlled district.
Blasts Rock Syrian City of Aleppo RIA Novosti 03 Oct 2012 -- Dozens of people died in two explosions on Wednesday morning in Syria's northern city Aleppo, the London-based opposition Syrian Observatory for Human Rights claims.
No U.S. Intervention in Syria - State Department RIA Novosti 03 Oct 2012 -- The United States does not plan to use military force in Syria, U.S. State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said.
Moscow Cautions Against 'Pretext' To Intervene In Syria RFE/RL 03 Oct 2012 -- Moscow has warned NATO and other powers not to seek a "pretext" to intervene militarily in Syria's bloody conflict.
Pro-Assad Media Gives Government View of Syrian Conflict VOA 03 Oct 2012 -- For much of the world, the war in Syria is seen through videos and voices of activists and citizens who tell of government attacks on residential areas and the crushing of a defiant opposition trying to oust an autocratic leader.
Syrian Conflict Draws in Assad Ally Hezbollah, Widens His Rift with Hamas VOA 02 Oct 2012 -- Syria's civil war appears to be drawing in Lebanese Hezbollah militants allied to President Bashar al-Assad.
Activists Say 20 Killed in Syria Explosions VOA 02 Oct 2012 -- A Syrian opposition group says explosions in the province of Daraa killed 20 people, as shelling and heavy fighting was reported throughout the country.
Number of Syrian refugees in neighbouring countries has tripled in three months – UN UN News Centre 02 Oct 2012 -- More than 300,000 Syrians have fled to neighbouring countries, the United Nations refugee agency said.
Mursi’s Spokesman Denies Talks on Syria Military Intervention RIA Novosti 02 Oct 2012 -- Egyptian President Mohamed Mursi did not discuss possible military intervention in Syria with Turkey's leadership.
U.S. Thinks Missing Journalist Being Held By Syrian Government RFE/RL 02 Oct 2012 -- The U.S. State Department says it thinks an American journalist who went missing in Syria is in the custody of the Syrian government.
UN Chief Criticizes Syria For Killings, Abuses RFE/RL 01 Oct 2012 -- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has criticized the Syrian government for killings, rights abuses, and failing to curb military attacks.
No peace possible in Syria without end to arming of ‘terrorist groups,’ minister tells UN UN News Centre 01 Oct 2012 -- Attempts to bring peace to Syria will need other countries to stop providing weapons to armed groups in the Middle Eastern country’s ongoing conflict, the Syrian Deputy Prime Minister, Walid Al-Moualem, told the United Nations General Assembly.
Syria Calls for Dialog with Opposition RIA Novosti 01 Oct 2012 -- Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Moallem on Monday called on the opposition to come to the negotiating table, adding that it was critical for neighboring countries to end their support for the opposition.
At UN General Debate, European officials stress need for action on Syrian crisis UN News Centre 01 Oct 2012 -- Today’s global challenges, such as the ongoing violence in Syria, demand that the United Nations step up and take the lead.
Threat posed by chemical weapons remains serious global concern, says Ban UN News Centre 01 Oct 2012 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon highlighted the continuing global threat posed by chemical weapons.
Bombing Kills 21 in Northern Syria, Activists Say VOA 01 Oct 2012 -- Syrian government warplanes have bombed a northern town near the Turkish border, killing 21 people, as heavy fighting spread within Aleppo's historic old city.
Russia Rejects Link to Turkish Jet Shoot-Down RIA Novosti 01 Oct 2012 -- Claims concerning Russia’s involvement in the downing of a Turkish combat jet by Syrian air defense in June are utter nonsense, the Foreign Ministry said.
UNESCO chief voices alarm at destruction of Syrian heritage site UN News Centre 01 Oct 2012 -- Both sides of the Syrian conflict must do all they can to prevent the destruction of Aleppo’s ancient network of markets.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

October 2012 - Syria Special Weapons News