March 2013 - Syria Special Weapons News

11 people, including women and children, killed in Syria attacks Iran Press TV 31 Mar 2013 -- At least 11 people, including women and children, have been killed in the Syrian capital Damascus and the western province of Homs as violence rages on in the Arab nation, Press TV reports.
Iraq to Tighten Searches of Iran-Syria Flights - Media RIA Novosti 31 Mar 2013 -- Iraq has announced it would search more Iranian aircraft flying via its airspace to Syria, soon after US State Secretary John Kerry slammed Baghdad for taking no action in that regard, media reported Saturday.
'US Army veteran fighting Syrian government worked for CIA' Iran Press TV 31 Mar 2013 -- The father of a US Army veteran recently arrested by the FBI for joining foreign-backed militants in Syria says his son was serving the CIA and reporting back to the Agency from the country.
Syria's Opposition Leader Reaches Political Crossroads VOA 29 Mar 2013 -- The man now representing the Syrian opposition to the world almost didn't attend his own coming out party. Indeed, Mouaz al-Khatib had resigned as president of the Syrian opposition's National Coalition two days before a scheduled Arab League meeting in Doha and hadn't even planned to attend the gathering.
Iran, N.Korea, Syria Block Global Arms Treaty RIA Novosti 29 Mar 2013 -- Delegations from 193 UN member states failed to reach unanimity on the first international treaty establishing rules for cross-border conventional arms trade, due to objections from Iran, North Korea and Syria.
UN disarmament chief relays plans for chemical weapons probe to Syrian Government UN News Centre 28 Mar 2013 -- The top United Nations disarmament official conveyed to the Syrian Government "modalities for cooperation" for the proper conduct of an investigation into allegations of chemical weapons use in the embattled country, according to a UN spokesperson.
Lawlessness Spreading in Rebel-held Syria VOA 28 Mar 2013 -- Public order is breaking down in rebel-held areas of Syria, with widespread looting, crime running rampant and rebel factions fighting among themselves, according to refugees escaping to Lebanon.
Mortar shells hit Damascus University, kill 15 students Iran Press TV 28 Mar 2013 -- At least 15 students have been killed in Syria after foreign-sponsored militants targeted the Damascus University with mortar shells, Press TV reports.
More arms being sent to Syria militants, report says Iran Press TV 28 Mar 2013 -- The countries that support militant groups in Syria have dramatically increased the amount of weapons being sent to the militants, a report says.
Head of UN probe into chemical weapons use in Syria says preparatory work has begun UN News Centre 27 Mar 2013 -- The newly-appointed head of the United Nations investigation into allegations of reported chemical weapons use in Syria says that preparations for the probe have begun and the mission could start in a week or two.
Syria: Security Council express 'grave concern' over presence of troops in Golan Heights UN News Centre 27 Mar 2013 -- The United Nations Security Council today said it was gravely concerned at the presence of the Syrian and opposition troops inside the demilitarized area of the Golan Heights that peacekeepers have been monitoring since 1974, calling on both sides to respect the blue helmets' freedom of movement and security.
Analysts: Arab Recognition Boosts Syrian Opposition, Arms Flow VOA 27 Mar 2013 -- The Arab League's decision to recognize Syria's anti-government coalition as the legitimate representative of the Syrian people has boosted the opposition's international standing and opened the door to increasing an already substantial arms flow to rebel fighters, analysts say.
Syria's brain drain – another twist to the country's crisis IRIN 26 Mar 2013 -- The exodus of educated and skilled Syrians is increasingly depleting the country's workforce and the quality of its health services, already strained by two years of conflict.
Russia Calls Syrian Opposition's Arab League Seat 'Illegal' RFE/RL 27 Mar 2013 -- Russia has criticized the Arab League's decision to give Syria's seat in the organization to the antigovernment opposition as 'Illegal,' 'indefensible,' and 'anti-Syrian.'
Russia Slams Arab League's Decision to Arm Syrian Rebels RIA Novosti 27 Mar 2013 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Wednesday that the Arab League's decision to allow its members to supply Syrian opposition forces with weapons broke international laws.
Syria, Russia, Iran Slam Arab League VOA 27 Mar 2013 -- Syria, Russia and Iran have criticized the Arab League for its decision to award Damascus's seat at the organization to anti-government representatives, as the opposition coalition opened its first embassy in the Qatari capital, Doha.
Syrian Opposition Takes Seat at Arab Summit VOA 26 Mar 2013 -- Syria's opposition representatives took the country's seat at an Arab summit for the first time.
Opposition Council Given Syria's Arab League Seat RFE/RL 26 Mar 2013 -- The Arab League has opened its two-day summit in Doha, with the Qatari emir inviting Syria’s opposition to take Syria’s seat.
Damascus slams Arab League’s decision to give Syria's seat to opposition PressTV 26 Mar 2013 -- The Syrian government has censured a decision by the Arab League to hand Syria’s seat to opposition forces on the eve of the organization’s annual summit in the Qatari capital.
Swedish scientist to lead probe in Syria UN News Centre 26 Mar 2013 -- Secretary-General Ban has appointed Professor Åke Sellström of Sweden to head the United Nations fact-finding mission which will investigate allegations of the reported use of chemical weapons in Syria.
West using UN probe in Syria chemical attack to oust Assad: Russia PressTV 26 Mar 2013 -- Russia says Western powers have attempted to take advantage of a United Nations probe into the recent use of chemical weapons by foreign-backed militants in Syria.
US training Syria militants in Jordan: Report PressTV 26 Mar 2013 -- A report has disclosed that the US has been involved in training militants fighting against the Syrian government in the neighboring country of Jordan.
Jordan closes main border crossing with Syria due to clashes PressTV 26 Mar 2013 -- Jordan has closed its main border crossing with Syria following intense clashes between the Syrian army and foreign-backed militant groups in Syria near the Jordanian border.
Blue helmets active in Golan Heights but in reduced capacity – UN peacekeeping chief UN News Centre 26 Mar 2013 -- The United Nations peacekeepers in the Golan Heights have reduced their activities in response to the presence of armed groups from the Syrian conflict.
Syria: UN refugee agency urges access for humanitarian aid UN News Centre 26 Mar 2013 -- The United Nations refugee agency reiterated its appeal to all parties to ensure safe passage for convoys delivering humanitarian aid to civilians inside Syria.
UN to Temporarily Relocate Some Staff from Syria VOA 25 Mar 2013 -- The United Nations said Monday it is relocating about 50 of its international personnel from the Syrian capital after mortars fell near their hotel.
Syrian Jihadist Fighters Getting Western Weapons VOA 25 Mar 2013 -- A Syrian rebel group the Obama administration considers a terrorist organization is managing to obtain modern anti-tank weapons meant for other groups fighting to oust President Bashar al-Assad, according to regional experts.
FSA commander badly hurt in Syria car bombing Iran Press TV 25 Mar 2013 -- A militant commander of the foreign-sponsored so-called Free Syrian Army has been gravely injured in a car bomb explosion in the eastern part of the conflict-stricken Arab state, Press TV reports.
CIA aids Arab kingdoms, Turkey in huge surge of arms shift to Syria rebels Iran Press TV 25 Mar 2013 -- US spy agency CIA has played a major role in locating weapon sources and coordinating a huge surge of arms shipments to foreign-backed militants in Syria by governments of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Jordan.
Syrian army restores security to Homs' Baba Amr neighborhood Iran Press TV 25 Mar 2013 -- The Syrian army has restored security to Baba Amr neighborhood in the city of Homs several weeks after terrorist groups had entered the district, Press TV reports.
Top Syrian Rebel Commander Reportedly Wounded RFE/RL 25 Mar 2013 -- Syrian activists say a top rebel military leader has been severely wounded by a bomb in the eastern Syrian province of Deir Al-Zoir.
Syrian Rebel Commander Wounded in Bomb Blast VOA 25 Mar 2013 -- Syrian activists say a car bomb in eastern Syria has wounded a top rebel commander who was among the first to defect from Syria's military.
Israeli forces fire rockets at Syrian army near Golan Heights Iran Press TV 24 Mar 2013 -- Israeli forces have fire rockets at the Syrian army across from the occupied Golan Heights, an Israeli military official says.
Syria opposition coalition chief Moaz al-Khatib resigns Iran Press TV 24 Mar 2013 -- The leader of Syria's opposition National Coalition Ahmed Moaz al-Khatib has resigned from his post in protest against the institutional limitations of the foreign-backed body.
Israeli Army Opens Fire at Syrian Military Post RIA Novosti 24 Mar 2013 -- The Israeli army opened fire at a Syrian military post in retaliation to a fire attack on its patrols in the Golan Heights, an army spokesman said on Sunday.
Syrian Opposition in Turmoil as Khatib Quits, Hitto Rejected VOA 24 Mar 2013 -- Syria's opposition movement was in disarray Sunday, as the head of the main exiled opposition group resigned, and rebels inside the country rejected the group's appointment of an interim prime minister.
Kerry Presses Maliki to Block Iranian Shipments to Syria VOA 24 Mar 2013 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry made a surprise visit to Baghdad, where he pressed Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki to block Iran from using Iraq to resupply embattled Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Syrians hold funeral for top Sunni cleric killed in Damascus attack Iran Press TV 23 Mar 2013 -- Syrians have held a funeral procession for the prominent Sunni cleric Sheikh Mohammad Said Ramadan al-Bouti who was killed in the recent terrorist attack on a mosque in Damascus.
Funeral Held for Top Syrian Cleric VOA 23 Mar 2013 -- A large crowd of Syrians turned out amid tight security Saturday for the funeral of slain Sunni cleric Mohammed al-Bouti, who died in what Syrian authorities say was a suicide-bombing in Damascus Thursday night.
UN chief and Security Council strongly condemn terrorist attack on Damascus mosque UN News Centre 22 Mar 2013 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the United Nations Security Council have strongly condemned yesterday's terrorist attack on the Iman mosque in Damascus, Syria, that left over 40 people dead, including a senior Muslim cleric, and dozens injured.
CIA provides intelligence to militants in Syria: Report Iran Press TV 23 Mar 2013 -- The CIA is providing intelligence support to the foreign-backed militants in Syria in an attempt to beef them up against the government of President Bashar al-Assad, a report says.
Syrian army storms militant positions, kill scores of terrorists Iran Press TV 22 Mar 2013 -- The Syrian army has stormed militant positions in several parts of the country, killing and injuring scores of terrorists fighting against the Damascus government.
Damascus Mosque Blast Kills 42, Including Senior Cleric - Report RIA Novosti 22 Mar 2013 -- At least 42 people were killed, including a pro-government senior Muslim cleric, and over 80 were wounded in an explosion at the Iman Mosque in downtown Damascus on Thursday, Syria's state news agency SANA reported.
Syria's Assad Vows to 'Purge Extremists' VOA 22 Mar 2013 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad vowed Friday to purge his country of extremists he blames for a suicide bombing that killed at least 49 people at an ancient Damascus mosque.
Chemical Weapons Would be Syria 'Game Changer' – Obama RIA Novosti 21 Mar 2013 -- US President Barack Obama said Wednesday he was "deeply skeptical" of Syrian government claims that its opponents used chemical weapons in the civil conflict there, but warned any use of such arms would be a fundamental "game changer" in the world's action on the crisis.
UN to Probe Alleged Use of Chemical Weapons in Syria RIA Novosti 21 Mar 2013 -- UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said on Thursday that the United Nations will open an investigation into an alleged chemical weapons attack in Syria as soon as possible.
UN chief announces independent probe into allegations of chemical attack in Syria UN News Centre 21 Mar 2013 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon said that the United Nations will launch an independent investigation into allegations of the possible use of chemical weapons in Syria, after receiving a formal request from the country's Government.
UN to Launch Syria Chemical Weapons Probe VOA 21 Mar 2013 -- U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon announced Thursday he will send a mission to Syria to investigate allegations of chemical weapons use.
Russia Denies Plans to Abandon Syrian Resupply Base RIA Novosti 21 Mar 2013 -- The Russian Defense Ministry denied on Thursday media reports speculating that Russia will relocate its resupply base in the Syrian port of Tartus to Beirut due to the escalation of the Syrian conflict.
US Investigating Chemical Weapons Reported in Syria VOA 20 Mar 2013 -- U.S. President Barack Obama says the United States will thoroughly investigate reports of chemical weapons use in Syria.
NATO Commander Says Syrian Plans Under Way RFE/RL 20 Mar 2013 -- The top U.S. military commander in Europe says several NATO countries are discussing plans for possible military action in Syria.
Funding shortfall for Syria could lead to humanitarian disaster, warns UN refugee chief UN News Centre 20 Mar 2013 -- The top United Nations refugee official has warned that Syria's worsening humanitarian crisis risks overwhelming the international community's capacity to respond, and that some aid agencies could run out of money for relief activities as early as the end of this month.
US Ambassador says No Evidence Chemical Weapons Used in Syria VOA 20 Mar 2013 -- The U.S. ambassador to Syria says the United States has no evidence to support charges chemical weapons were used this week in northern Syria.
Syrian conflict exacting growing toll on civilians, senior UN humanitarian official says UN News Centre 19 Mar 2013 -- Syrian civilians are increasingly bearing the brunt of the conflict which, as it enters its third year, has led to more than 70,000 people killed and three million displaced, a senior United Nations humanitarian official has said, urging more funding for humanitarian operations.
Ban reiterates concerns about possible chemical weapons use in Syria UN News Centre 19 Mar 2013 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the head of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) today voiced their deep concern about the alleged use of these deadly weapons in Syria.
Militants in Syria use chemical weapons: Report Iran Press TV 19 Mar 2013 -- The militants fighting against the government of President Bashar al-Assad in Syria have been using chemical weapons, official SANA news agency says, adding that at least 15 people were killed in a chemical attack in the northwestern city of Aleppo.
Use of chemical weapons, 'first act' by opposition interim government Iran Press TV 19 Mar 2013 -- Syrian Information Minister Omran al-Zoubi has described militants' use of chemical weapons as the 'first act' by the so-called opposition interim government.
Militants carried out Aleppo chemical attack: Russia Iran Press TV 19 Mar 2013 -- Russia says it has information proving that militants fighting against the Syrian government used chemical weapons in the northern city of Aleppo.
Syrian Government, Rebels Accuse Each Other Of Chemical Attack RFE/RL 19 Mar 2013 -- Syria's government and rebels have accused each other of launching a deadly chemical attack near the northern city of Aleppo.
Russia Alarmed by Alleged Chemical Weapons Use in Syria RIA Novosti 19 Mar 2013 -- Russia sounded the alarm on Tuesday over the alleged use of chemical weapons by Syria's armed opposition, saying that it would lead to an escalation of the conflict.
Damascus Denies Lebanon Air Strikes RIA Novosti 19 Mar 2013 -- Syria denied reports Tuesday that it has launched air assaults on rebel positions in Lebanon, despite having earlier warned it might do so unless Beirut reinforced its border.
Chemical Weapons Attack Reported in Syria VOA 19 Mar 2013 -- Syria's government and rebels traded accusations Tuesday over reports of the use of a chemical weapon in the northwest of the city of Aleppo that killed more than 20 people and wounded another 80, with each side blaming the other for the attack.
US Does Not Oppose Britain, France Arming Syrian Opposition VOA 18 Mar 2013 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry says the Obama administration does not oppose moves by the United Kingdom and France to arm opponents of embattled Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Syrian planes bomb militant targets along Lebanon border Iran Press TV 18 Mar 2013 -- Syrian planes have bombed targets along the country's border with Lebanon for the first time, hitting militant positions inside Lebanon, a Lebanese army source says.
Syrian Opposition Meets to Pick Prime Minister VOA 18 Mar 2013 -- The opposition Syrian National Coalition is meeting in Turkey to elect a prime minister tasked with running rebel-held areas of Syria.
Syria Rebels Appear to Make Big Weapons Seizure VOA 17 Mar 2013 -- Syrian rebels appear to have seized a large number of weapons from a government arms depot near the northern city of Aleppo.
Syria Expands Use of Cluster Bombs says HRW VOA 16 Mar 2013 -- An international human rights group says Syrian forces are expanding their use of banned cluster bombs in residential areas, causing mounting civilian casualties.
EU Delays Decision to Arm Syrian Rebels VOA 15 Mar 2013 -- European Union governments delayed making a decision on a push by Britain and France to arm Syrian rebels against government troops.
EU Delays Syrian Arms Embargo Decision RFE/RL 15 Mar 2013 -- European Union leaders have put off a decision on whether to begin arming rebels fighting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime.
EU leaders fail to agree on lifting Syria opposition arms embargo PressTV 15 Mar 2013 -- EU leaders have failed to reach an agreement to exclude militants fighting against the Damascus government from an arms embargo on Syria despite a strong push from Britain and France.
Syria: EU To Debate Arming Rebels RFE/RL 15 Mar 2013 -- European Union leaders, at a summit in Brussels, are expected to debate a French call for the lifting of an embargo so weapons can be provided to insurgents fighting the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Turkey hails efforts to lift EU arms embargo on Syria PressTV 15 Mar 2013 -- Turkey has expressed support for lifting the EU's arms embargo on Syria in order to facilitate the provision of weaponry to the foreign-backed militants fighting against the Syrian government.
UN concerned over Syrian crisis spillover into Lebanon PressTV 15 Mar 2013 -- The United Nations Security Council has expressed “grave concern” over the spillover of the Syrian crisis into Lebanon following repeated cross-border attacks between the two countries.
Syria Threatens to Strike Lebanon Militant Bases RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2013 -- The Syrian Foreign Ministry has threatened to strike militants' bases on Lebanese territory if Beirut fails to beef up security on their common border and prevent infiltration.
Syria says it may strike at militant positions inside Lebanon PressTV 15 Mar 2013 -- Syria has warned that it may strike at the positions of foreign-backed militants fighting against the Damascus government in neighboring Lebanon if the Lebanese army fails to act.
Humanitarian challenges continue to mount as Syrian crisis enters its third year – UN UN News Centre 15 Mar 2013 -- United Nations officials warned that civilian suffering is escalating and humanitarian needs mounting, while funds are rapidly running out.
Lebanese parties must not get involved in Syrian crisis, Security Council stresses UN News Centre 14 Mar 2013 -- The Security Council said it was stressing the need for all Lebanese parties to refrain from any involvement in the crisis in neighbouring Syria.
Syria's Uprising Enters Third Year VOA 14 Mar 2013 -- The uprising against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is moving into its third year.
Europe Ramps Up Calls to Arm Syrian Rebels VOA 14 Mar 2013 -- Europe's two biggest military powers, France and Britain, are ramping up calls for the European Union to arm Syrian rebels.
Hollande urges EU to officially allow arms flows into Syria PressTV 14 Mar 2013 -- French President Francois Hollande has called on European leaders to start officially arming Syria militants by removing bans on flow of weapons into the violence-wracked country.
France, UK to arm Syria militants: Paris PressTV 14 Mar 2013 -- France and the UK will send weapons to the militants in Syria despite an arms embargo which forbids the EU states from such an action, France says.
Arming Syria militants ‘flagrant violation of intl. law’ PressTV 14 Mar 2013 -- Syria has strongly condemned a decision by France and Britain to supply arms to foreign-backed militants fighting against the government of President Bashar al-Assad.
Lavrov Says Arming Syrian Rebels Would Be 'Illegal' RFE/RL 14 Mar 2013 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has warned that arming the Syrian opposition would be against international law.
Moscow Warns Arab League Over Syria Seat for Rebels RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2013 -- Russia's Foreign Ministry warned the Arab League that its recent decision to give Syria’s seat to the opposition National Council would legalize arms supplies to militants and terrorists.
UNHCR: Number of Syrian refugees grow 10% PressTV 14 Mar 2013 -- The UN refugee agency says the number of Syrian refugees has soared 10 percent in the past week alone.
UN food relief agency facing severe funding challenges for Syria operation UN News Centre 14 Mar 2013 -- Two years into the Syrian crisis, the United Nations food relief agency said it is facing severe challenges in expanding its emergency operation which aims to feed millions of conflict-affected people.
Syria Issue Likely to Come Up During Obama's Mideast Trip VOA 13 Mar 2013 -- President Obama's trip to the Middle East is primarily about how to find a path to peace between Israelis and Palestinians.
Russia warns UK on arming Syria militants PressTV 13 Mar 2013 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has warned Britain on arming militants fighting against the Syrian government.
Arming Syria militants breaches international law: Russian FM PressTV 13 Mar 2013 -- Russia says arming foreign-backed militants fighting against the Syrian government is in violation of international law.
Moscow Claims Neutrality in Syria Conflict RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2013 -- Russia is taking no sides in the Syrian conflict and hopes that the Syrian opposition will soon form a team to negotiate with government representatives.
‘UK could bypass arms embargo on Syria’ PressTV 13 Mar 2013 -- Britain may consider vetoing any extension to the arms embargo on foreign-sponsored militants in Syria, British Prime Minister David Cameron has said.
EU Staff Member Killed In Damascus RFE/RL 13 Mar 2013 -- A staff member of the European Union's delegation in Syria has been killed in a rocket attack on a Damascus suburb.
Syrian Rebels Fight to Recapture Homs Neighborhood VOA 12 Mar 2013 -- Activists say the Syrian military has bombarded opposition-held districts of Homs to try to stop rebels from re-capturing their former stronghold in the central city.
Support for Syrian Opposition Best Way to End Violence - US RIA Novosti 12 Mar 2013 -- The United States will keep supporting the Syrian opposition as that is the only possible way to resolve the conflict in the country, the US State Department said.
Moscow Takes Issue with US Stance on Syria RIA Novosti 12 Mar 2013 -- Moscow criticized what it described as the United States' biased interpretation of the Geneva Communiqué as supporting the Syrian opposition.
Russian Aircraft Evacuates over 100 People from Syria RIA Novosti 12 Mar 2013 -- A Russian emergencies ministry’s plane left Syria with over 100 people from Russia and former Soviet republics.
Syrians Postpone Selection of Opposition Prime Minister VOA 11 Mar 2013 -- Syria opposition still not settled on when and how to establish a transitional government to replace Assad regime.
Ukrainian Journalist Escapes Syrian Kidnappers RFE/RL 11 Mar 2013 -- Ukraine's Foreign Ministry has confirmed media reports that a Ukrainian journalist abducted in Syria has managed to escape her captors.
Both sides in Syria ‘increasingly reckless’ with civilian lives UN News Centre 11 Mar 2013 -- The violence in Syria has reached “new heights of destruction,” independent United Nations human rights investigators said.
US troops training Syria militants in Jordan: Report PressTV 11 Mar 2013 -- US troops deployed to the Jordanian border are training the Free Syrian Army (FSA) militants, who are fighting against the President Bashar al-Assad government in Syria.
EU Foreign Ministers Split on Arms to Syria VOA 11 Mar 2013 -- The European Union has split over whether to arm Syrian rebels, with international special envoy Lakhdar Brahimi calling again for a political solution to end two years of bloodshed that has killed an estimated 70,000 people.
EU Foreign Ministers Discuss Syria VOA 11 Mar 2013 -- European Union foreign ministers are in Brussels for talks aimed at finding ways to end two-years of bloodshed in Syria that has killed an estimated 70,000 people.
Syrian Opposition: Russia Should Cut Arms Supplies to Assad RIA Novosti 11 Mar 2013 -- Russia should cut arms supplies to Damascus in order to pressure Syrian President Bashar al-Assad into negotiations with the opposition.
Syria opposition meets Lavrov to sway Russia on Assad PressTV 11 Mar 2013 -- A Syrian opposition official is holding talks with Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in a bid to persuade Moscow to back calls for President Bashar al-Assad resignation.
UN official welcomes Turkish programme to register Syrian refugees in cities UN News Centre 11 Mar 2013 -- The head of the United Nations refugee agency welcomed the launch of a programme to register thousands of displaced Syrians in urban areas of Turkey.
Press Conference by UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East Commissioner-General, 11 March 2013 United Nations 11 Mar 2013
Palestinian refugees in greater need of relief as Syrian crisis escalates, warns UN official UN News Centre 11 Mar 2013 -- Rising deaths among the Palestinian refugee population in Syria and funding shortfalls for humanitarian assistance in the war-torn country.
Activists Say Syria Rebels Raid Homs, Create Council in East VOA 10 Mar 2013 -- Syrian opposition activists say rebels have put more pressure on President Bashar al-Assad.
Dozens of bodies recovered from river in Aleppo PressTV 10 Mar 2013 -- The bodies of dozens of Syrian civilians have been recovered from a river in the northern city of Aleppo, the second time that large numbers of bodies had been pulled from the same river.
UN Warns Number Of Syrian Refugees Could Triple RFE/RL 10 Mar 2013 -- UN High Commissioner for Refugees Antonio Guterres has said that the number of refugees from Syria could double or even triple by the end of the year if the exodus continues at the present rate.
Number of displaced Syrians may double or triple by end of 2013: UN PressTV 10 Mar 2013 -- The UN High Commissioner for refugees has warned that the number of displaced Syrian may double or even triple by end of this year if the unrest does not end.
UN Secretary General Welcomes Release of Peacekeepers RIA Novosti 10 Mar 2013 -- UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the release of peacekeepers who were seized last week in the disputed Golan Heights.
Ban welcomes safe release of UN peacekeepers detained in Golan UN News Centre 09 Mar 2013 -- Secretary-General Ban welcomed the release of the 21 United Nations peacekeepers who had been detained last week in the Golan Heights.
UN Peacekeepers Held in Syria Are Safe in Jordan VOA 09 Mar 2013 -- A United Nations official says all 21 U.N. peacekeepers who had been held captive in the Golan Heights by Syrian rebels were freed and handed over to authorities in Jordan.
Syrian Prez’s Special envoy criticizes role of western countries IRNA 09 Mar 2013 -- Criticising the role of western countries in Syrian crisis, President Bashar al-Assad's Special Envoy Bouthaina Shaaban sought support from India and other BRICS members.
UN Expects to Free Hostages in Syria Saturday VOA 08 Mar 2013 -- U.N. officials say the expected to take place Saturday.
UN Suspends for Day Efforts to Release Peacekeepers in Syria VOA 08 Mar 2013 -- Efforts to release 21 U.N. peacekeepers held by armed elements of the Syrian opposition were suspended Friday.
Blue helmets seized in Golan safe but remain captive – UN peacekeeping chief UN News Centre 08 Mar 2013 -- The head of United Nations peacekeeping operations said that the blue helmets seized in the Golan Heights two days ago are all safe but remain detained.
Syrian Shelling Forces UN Rescue Convoy to Retreat VOA 08 Mar 2013 -- A United Nations convoy sent to pick up 21 U.N. peacekeepers held by Syrian rebels has reportedly been forced to retreat following shelling in the area.
Syria Trying to Release Golan Hostages by Force - Diplomat RIA Novosti 08 Mar 2013 -- The Syrian government says it is trying to free UN peacekeepers taken hostage by insurgent fighters last week in the disputed Golan Heights region with no outside help.
Damascus briefs UN on transfer of Libyan, Saudi arms, militants to Syria PressTV 08 Mar 2013 -- Syria has written to the United Nations over a measure by Turkey to assign a special mission to a Libyan ship carrying arms and terrorists to help the militants fighting against Damascus.
Iran military not present in Syria: Cmdr. PressTV 08 Mar 2013 -- Chief of Staff of Iran's Armed Forces Major General Hassan Firouzabadi says the Islamic Republic has no military presence in Syria.
Lavrov: Russia ‘Not in Regime Change Game’ in Syria RIA Novosti 08 Mar 2013 -- Russia would not pressure Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to step down and welcomes Syrian opposition’s tentative willingness to hold talks with his regime, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.
Russia won’t pressure Syrian president to step down: Lavrov PressTV 08 Mar 2013 -- Russia says there will be “absolutely” no chance that Moscow pressures Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to step down.
Russia Wants Bilateral Demilitarization in Syria – Lavrov RIA Novosti 08 Mar 2013 -- Russia could consider steps toward demilitarizing the conflict in Syria, but wants first some “explanations” about foreign weapons supplies to the Syrian opposition.
UN food aid agency to feed 2.5 million people inside Syria by April UN News Centre 08 Mar 2013 -- The United Nations World Food Programme said it aims to feed 2.5 million people inside Syria by next month, up from 1.7 million in February.
Pressure Mounts for Release of UN Peacekeepers in Syria VOA 07 Mar 2013 -- A Syrian opposition spokesman said that 21 United Nations peacekeepers being held by Syrian rebels soon will be freed.
Philippines calls on militants in Syria to release UN peacekeepers PressTV 07 Mar 2013 -- Manila has demanded the immediate release of 21 Filipino UN peacekeepers held hostage by foreign-sponsored militants fighting against the Syrian government.
Russia Condemns Seizure of UN Peacekeepers in Golan Heights RIA Novosti 07 Mar 2013 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Gennady Gatilov has condemned the seizure of UN peacekeepers by Syrian militants in the Golan Heights ceasefire zone.
German foreign minister warns against arming Syria militants PressTV 07 Mar 2013 -- Germany's foreign minister has warned against sending arms to the militants in Syria, saying such a measure would broaden the conflict in the Arab country into the whole region.
Arab League openly approves arming militants in Syria PressTV 07 Mar 2013 -- The Arab League has officially given the green light for the offering of military support to the foreign-backed militants fighting against the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
'Free Syrian Army' asks West to step up arms supply PressTV 07 Mar 2013 -- The so-called Free Syrian Army’s chief of staff Salim Idris has issued a request for more arms and ammunition from the Western countries.
Syria Spillover Worries Iraqi Officials VOA 07 Mar 2013 -- The deepening sectarian conflict in Syria is aggravating an already tense sectarian divide in neighboring Iraq.
Arab League Says Members Free to Offer Syria Rebels Arms VOA 06 Mar 2013 -- Arab states are free to offer military support to rebels fighting the forces of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad if they wish.
Britain to provide further assistance for militants in Syria PressTV 06 Mar 2013 -- Britain is to boost assistance to insurgents in Syria, providing them with military equipment.
Turkey calls for lifting arms embargo on Syria militants PressTV 06 Mar 2013 -- Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu says that Ankara supports lifting the arms embargo on foreign-sponsored militants in Syria.
Ban and Security Council demand release of UN peacekeepers held in Golan Heights UN News Centre 06 Mar 2013 -- Secretary-General Ban and the Security Council strongly condemned the detention by “armed elements of the Syrian opposition” of a group of United Nations peacekeepers who monitor the ceasefire in the Golan Heights between Israel and Syria.
UN Demands Unconditional Release of Golan Peacekeepers VOA 06 Mar 2013 -- The U.N. Security Council is demanding the unconditional release of more than 20 peacekeepers stopped and detained by armed elements of the Syrian opposition in the Golan Heights.
UN Peacekeepers Seized in Syria's Golan Heights VOA 06 Mar 2013 -- United Nations peacekeepers have been detained by armed men in Syria, near the disengagement zone with Israel.
Syria militants detain 20 UN peacekeepers in Golan Heights PressTV 06 Mar 2013 -- The foreign-sponsored militants fighting against the Syrian government have reportedly detained about 20 United Nations peacekeeping forces in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.
Syrian Warplanes Bomb Raqqa RFE/RL 06 Mar 2013 -- Syrian jets have bombed Raqqa, a day after opposition fighters took control of the northern town and captured its provincial governor.
Syrian troops kill scores of foreign-backed militants in mop-up operations PressTV 06 Mar 2013 -- Syrian Army soldiers have killed scores of foreign-backed militants fighting government forces during nationwide mop-up operations.
Iran plan, best solution to Syria crisis: Mehmanparast PressTV 06 Mar 2013 -- Iran Foreign Ministry Spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast says Tehran’s peace plan for Syria is the best solution to the crisis in the Arab country.
UN warns of ‘full-scale disaster’ as Syrian refugees reach one million UN News Centre 06 Mar 2013 -- One million Syrians have fled their homeland, the head of the United Nations refugee agency said.
UN: One Million Syrians Are Refugees VOA 06 Mar 2013 -- The United Nations reports the number of refugees from Syria's war has reached the one million mark, calling it a tragic milestone.
Number of Syrian refugees reaches one million: UN PressTV 06 Mar 2013 -- The United Nations has warned that Syria was “spiraling towards full-scale disaster,” stating that the number of refugees who have fled the violence in the Arab country has reached one million.
Syria’s Armenians Return to Their Ancestral Homeland VOA 06 Mar 2013 -- As Syria’s civil war marks a two-year anniversary on March 15, the human cost will be more than 70,000 dead, one million refugees outside the country, and two million more people forced to find new shelter inside Syria.
Secretary Kerry Remarks With Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani After Their Meeting US Dept. of State 05 Mar 2013
Kerry Highlights Diplomatic Efforts in Syria VOA 05 Mar 2013 -- Wrapping up his first foreign trip as America's top diplomat, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry presented a united front with Qatar on the issue of Syria, while also advancing the U.S. position for a negotiated solution to the conflict.
Readout of Secretary Chuck Hagel’s Meeting with Israeli Minister of Defense Ehud Barak DoD 05 Mar 2013
Hagel, Barak Discuss Syria, Iran AFPS 05 Mar 2013 -- Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel and Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak held talks at the Pentagon today on issues including Syria and Iran, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said.
Mattis: Iran ‘Most Significant Threat’ To Regional Stability AFPS 05 Mar 2013 -- Iran’s behavior poses the greatest risk to stability in the Middle East, the commander of U.S. Central Command said here today.
Syrian Rebels Claim Capture Of Northern City RFE/RL 05 Mar 2013 -- Syrian rebels are reported to have seized a city in the northeast of the country.
Syrian troops strike back at militants in Raqqa PressTV 05 Mar 2013-- The Syrian army says it has struck back at foreign-backed militants, who stormed the provincial capital of the northern Raqqa Province.
Activists: Syrian Rebels Capture Provincial Governor VOA 05 Mar 2013 -- Syrian activists say rebels have captured the governor of the northern province of Raqqa, after largely pushing government forces from the area's capital city.
US Officials Pushing Russia on Syrian Arms Sales RIA Novosti 05 Mar 2013 -- US officials are renewing criticism of Russia over the delivery of weapons to Syria.
Russia Regrets Conflict Spreading Beyond Syria's Borders RIA Novosti 05 Mar 2013 -- The recent murder of Syrian nationals in Iraq means that the Syrian conflict is spreading beyond the country’s borders.
Deputy Secretary of State William J. Burns' Meeting With Iraqi National Security Advisor Faleh al-Fayyad US Dept. of State 05 Mar 2013
Syria Spillover, al-Qaida Strain Iraq Security VOA 05 Mar 2013 -- Iraq's Shi'ite Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki has long warned that Syria's increasingly sectarian war might spill over the border and reignite his own country's combustible Shi'ite-Sunni mix.
Libyan Arms Stockpiles in Egypt Causing Concern VOA 05 Mar 2013 -- Since Moammar Gadhafi was ousted as Libya’s leader over a year ago, Egyptian officials have been intercepting large caches of weapons smuggled from Libya destined for black-market transfer to Syria and Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
Secretary Kerry Remarks With Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Saud al-Faisal After Their Meeting US Dept. of State 04 Mar 2013
U.S. Government Assistance to the Syrian People US Dept. of State 04 Mar 2013
Kerry Talks Regional Issues With Gulf Arab Leaders VOA 04 Mar 2013 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry says there is a “finite amount of time” for talks on Iran's nuclear program.
Assad Forces Defeated in Syria's Raqqa, Ambushed in Iraq VOA 04 Mar 2013 -- Syrian rebels appear to have captured the northern city of Raqqa, in one of the biggest gains of their two-year revolt against President Bashar al-Assad.
Report: Syrian Rebels Capture Most of Key City VOA 04 Mar 2013 -- A Syrian watchdog group says rebels battling troops loyal to President Bashar al-Assad have taken over large parts of the northern city of Raqa after days of fierce fighting.
Riyadh has moral duty of helping Syria militants: Saudi FM PressTV 04 Mar 2013 -- Saudi Arabia says it has a moral responsibility to assist the militants fighting against the Syrian government.
UK FM mulls openly arming Syria rebels? PressTV 04 Mar 2013 -- British Foreign Secretary William Hague says London is ready to arm Syrian militants in case the conflict continues to escalate amid fears that London could be already planning an escalation by secret arming and training of the militants.
VOA Finds Evidence of Syrian Cluster Bomb Use VOA 04 Mar 2013 -- The Syrian government says it does not use cluster bombs against rebels or civilians.
Syrian Opposition Leader Visits 'Liberated' Areas RFE/RL 04 Mar 2013 -- The exiled Syrian opposition leader Moaz Alkhatib has paid a brief visit to rebel-held areas in northern Syria.
Iraq dismisses claims of meddling in Syria’s affairs PressTV 04 Mar 2013 -- Iraq has strongly dismissed claims by a Syrian opposition group that Baghdad is interfering in the internal affairs of Syria.
Iraq Says Rebels Cross Border To Kill Syrian Troops RFE/RL 04 Mar 2013 -- Iraqi officials say Syrian rebels have crossed into Iraqi territory to kill 48 Syrian soldiers.
Iraqi gunmen kill 42 Syrian soldiers, 7 Iraqis: officials PressTV 04 Mar 2013 -- At least 42 Syrian soldiers and seven Iraqis have been killed in an ambush attack by Iraqi gunmen near the two countries sharing border.
Russia faces 'war' in arms sales to Syria: Russian official Iran Press TV 03 Mar 2013 -- A senior Russian official says a 'real war' has been launched against Moscow to halt its legal exports of weapons to Syria.
Assad slams Britain for pushing to end EU arms embargo on militants Iran Press TV 03 Mar 2013 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has criticized Britain for pushing to end the European Union's arms embargo against militants fighting against the Damascus government.
Syria Army says killed more foreign-backed militants, seized their weapons Iran Press TV 03 Mar 2013 -- The Syrian Army says it has killed more foreign-backed militants and seized their weapons during an ongoing operation across the country.
Assad Criticizes British Role In Syrian Conflict RFE/RL 03 Mar 2013 -- In a rare interview, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has said he will not step down and has criticized Britain for supporting opposition fighters in Syria's two-year conflict.
Syrian President Assad Blasts British Government RIA Novosti 03 Mar 2013 -- The British government is "shallow and immature" and has for centuries played an "unconstructive" role in the Middle East, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said in an interview with the Sunday Times.
US Army Commandos Train Armed Rebels in Syria – Sana RIA Novosti 03 Mar 2013 -- Instructors from US special forces are training armed opposition groups that are fighting against the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, Syria's state-run news agency Sana reported on Sunday.
Assad Defiant as Rebel Gains Continue VOA 03 Mar 2013 -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is blasting the West for aiding forces attempting to oust him -- while a Britain-based monitoring group says more than 200 Syrian soldiers and opposition fighters died in a week-long battle for a police academy near the northern city of Aleppo.
Syria militants say 'desperate' for arms Iran Press TV 02 Mar 2013 -- The head of the Syria militants says his forces are in 'desperate' need of weapons and ammunition rather than the "non-lethal support" the US has pledged to give.
Syria Army captures key road to Aleppo airport: Report Iran Press TV 02 Mar 2013 -- The Syrian army has taken back control of a key road linking the central province of Hama to Aleppo International Airport from foreign-backed militants, army officials say.
United Nations ready to host Syria government-opposition talks Iran Press TV 02 Mar 2013 -- The United Nations has offered to broker peace talks between the Syrian government and armed opposition to end the violence that has ravaged the country.
Syria foreign minister accuses US of double-standard policy Iran Press TV 02 Mar 2013 -- Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem has condemned Washington's double-standard policy towards the ongoing crisis in Syria, saying the US can stop bloodshed in the Arab country.
UN Chief Expresses 'Deep Frustration' Over Syrian Crisis RIA Novosti 02 Mar 2013 -- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and international peace envoy Lakhdar Brahimi have expressed "deep frustration" over the ongoing conflict in Syria and urged the international community to step up collective effort to end the crisis.
Russian Arms Trade Czar Says 'War' Declared on Weapon Supplies to Syria RIA Novosti 02 Mar 2013 -- Russia is facing a 'real war' aimed at hampering the country's legal deliveries of weapons to Syria, the head of the Federal Service for Military and Technical Cooperation has said.
Ban, UN-Arab League envoy meet to discuss efforts to end Syrian crisis UN News Centre 02 Mar 2013 -- The international community must act with unity to achieve a political solution and end the suffering in Syria, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the Joint Special Representative of the world organization and the League of Arab States, Lakhdar Brahimi, stressed today during a meeting in Mt. Pelerin, Switzerland.
Rights Group: Cluster Bomb Attack in Syria Kills 19 VOA 02 Mar 2013 -- A human rights group says 19 people were killed when Syrian warplanes dropped cluster bombs, which are banned under a U.N. treaty. Amnesty International said Saturday the attack Friday in the northern town of Aleppo wounded more than 60 people.
UN Chief Warns of Syrian War Spreading Regionally VOA 01 Mar 2013 -- United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is warning of spillover effects in countries neighboring Syria if the sectarian violence there does not stop. Addressing journalists in Geneva, the U.N. chief said he is very concerned about the continuing deterioration of the situation in Syria.
'Friends of Syria' decision to up aid to militants encourages extremists Iran Press TV 01 Mar 2013 -- Russia has said that decisions made in the Rome meeting to increase aid to foreign-backed militants in Syria only encourage extremists who want to seize power by force.
EU extends Syria sanctions, eases military aid to militants Iran Press TV 01 Mar 2013 -- The European Union has renewed extensive sanctions against the Syrian government in a move to pave the way for providing military equipment and training to the country's opposition groups.
Friends of Syria Group 'Encourages Extremists' - Moscow RIA Novosti 01 Mar 2013 -- A resolution adopted by the Friends of Syria Group in Rome on Thursday encourages extremists there to seize power by force, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Alexander Lukashevich said on Friday.
Kerry: US Hopes for Peaceful Syria Solution VOA 01 Mar 2013 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry criticized what he called the atrocities of the Syrian regime Friday, but said the United States still hopes for a peaceful solution. Kerry spoke in Ankara following a meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

March 2013 - Syria Special Weapons News