http://news.linktv.org Link TV News Videos (Filtered by topics: Foreign relations of Syria) en-us Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:31:00 -0700 Copyright 2011 Link Media, Inc. http://news.linktv.org/videos/western-backed-syrian-opposition-chief-resigns?start=0 The head of Syria's main opposition group resigned on Sunday. Moaz Alkhatib was picked to lead the Western and Gulf-backed National Coalition for Syrian Revolutionary and Opposition Forces in November. His departure comes after heavy criticism for offering President Bashar al-Assad an exit deal. Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:31:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/western-backed-syrian-opposition-chief-resigns Syrian Civil War, Moaz al-Khatib, Bashar al-Assad, National Coalition for Syrian Revolutionary and Opposition Forces, Syria, Foreign relations of Syria, Syrian opposition, Aid, Euronews The head of Syria's main opposition group resigned on Sunday. Moaz Alkhatib was picked to lead the Western and Gulf-backed National Coalition for Syrian Revolutionary and Opposition Forces in November. His departure comes after heavy criticism for offering President Bashar al-Assad an exit deal. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-110612?start=33 <p>Russia and Qatar compete over ownership of Syrian people's voice, Britain's Cameron slammed for acting as weapons dealer to Arab despots, Kuwaiti emir vows tough measures against "illegal" protestors, and more.</p> Tue, 06 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-110612 Israel, Israel Defense Forces, Politics of Israel, Palestinians, United Nations, Syrian Civil War, Mahmoud Abbas, Gaza, Bashar al-Assad, David Cameron Presenter, Female #1 From Jordan, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov confirmed that those demanding the resignation of President Assad of Syria don't care about the lives of Syrians. Reporter, Female #2 Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met with former Syrian Prime Minister Riyad Hijab, in Amman, to look for ways to stop the violence in Syria. Hijab refused an invitation to visit Moscow in light of what he called Russia's current immoral stance. The meeting was announced by Lavrov during a joint press conference with his Jordanian counterpart, Nasser Jouda. He confirmed that the opposition's work must include all opposition groups so they can be convinced to operate in accordance with the Geneva Convention. Guest, Male #1 (Sergei Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister) We are in favor of returning international observers to Syria, and increasing their numbers so that they can see with their own eyes how the ceasefire can be implemented, and who will do it. The next step, certainly, would be negotiations. I will tell you once again that ending the violence could be a goal for everyone, but for some, changing Bashar al-Assad's regime is more essential. So they are going to be in agreement, and will want to continue the bloodbath until they end Bashar al-Assad's rule. Reporter, Female #2 The Syrian crisis also appeared in Hamad Bin Khalifa al-Thani's speech before the Shura Council during the council's new legislative session. Guest, Male #2 (Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Emir of Qatar) The Syrian people's plight has lasted for a long time, my brothers, even though the entire world supports their legitimate demands. In this context, we hold the Security Council responsible for the people's ongoing suffering. And we not only hold the Arab League responsible, but view it as holding an even greater responsibility. Reporter, Female #2 For his side, the president of the Syrian National Council, Abdel Baset Sayda, said in the opening of the council's general assembly session in Doha, where a new council president will be elected, that the international community is doing nothing to stop the suffering of the Syrians. Sayda stated that targeting the council will prolong the crisis, which could encourage extremist factions. He stressed the need to establish the council as the most important pillar of the opposition. Guest, Male #3 (Abdel Baset Sayda, Head of Syrian National Council) I believe that the international community in general is falling short in regard to what has happened and what is happening in Syria. These international efforts didn't live up to the scale of the requirements. We feel there is a desire to rationalize this shortcoming by accusing the Syrians of being unable to unite their ranks. Guest, Female #3 Terrorists assassinated Dr. Muhammad Osama al-Lahham. Reporter, Female #2 On the other hand, terrorists assassinated the brother of the People's Assembly speaker in Damascus. According to the SANA news agency, terrorists fired at Dr. Muhammad Osama al-Lahham in the Thuraya area of al-Meidan in Damascus as he was heading to work, which led to his killing. This, as the Turkish Anadalu news agency reported that seven prominent officers left the Syrian army and sought refuge in Turkey. On the ground, a car bomb exploded in the Sayyida Zeinab area south of Damascus before noon on Tuesday without causing any victims. The explosion occurred following reports of intensified attacks by opposition fighting groups in the capital. According to Syrian security sources, regime forces were able to repel them. Reporter, Female #2 The town of Hauli, in Homs Province, witnessed an air raid followed by mortar shelling that caused the killing of seven people, including a woman. The Observatory also reported the killing of at least 12 members of the regime's forces and the injury of over 20 in an attack with explosive canisters, shells, and gunfire in Idlib Province, northwest Syria. It targeted a truck, a bus, an SUV, and an armored personnel carrier. In the evening, SANA reported a terrorist explosion in al-Wuroud neighborhood in the countryside of Damascus, saying a number of people were killed and injured. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-110512?start=807 <p>Myanmar's Suu Kyi under fire for ignoring violence against the Rohingyas as thousands lack medical care, two foreign workers killed by bombings in Bahrain's capital, Arabs disillusioned with Obama express indifference to the US presidential election, and more.</p> Mon, 05 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-110512 Muammar Gaddafi , Israel, Rohingya, Civilian casualties, Myanmar, Iran, Aung San Suu Kyi, Iranian rial, Bahrain Uprising, Barack Obama Presenter, Female #1 Mass explosions and suicide attacks were reported in Syria. In Doha, the opposition's second day of meetings offset the failures of the first day. Reporter, Female #2 It was a bloody day in Syria, during which losses on both sides, the regime and the opposition, were recorded. But it was the innocent civilians that bore the biggest loss, and specifically those that were in the crowded Arous al-Jabal Square, in the Mezzeh neighborhood of Damascus. Over 11 people were killed and dozens were injured in an explosion that official news outlets attributed to an explosive canister placed on site by terrorists. However, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the explosion was the result of a car bomb. Reporter, Female #2 In a major escalation of the campaign carried out by regime forces, Syrian planes and artillery shelled opposition strongholds south of Damascus causing the killing of at least 10 fighters. The neighborhoods of al-Hajar al-Aswad and al-Tadamon, in the surroundings of al-Yarmouk camp, south of Damascus, witnessed violent clashes that caused a large exodus of residents. In contrast, a suicide attack with a car bomb resulted in the killing of at least 50 people who were Syrian security members, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Reporter, Female #2 In a number of Aleppo's neighborhoods, clashes continued as the anti-regime Tarek Bin Ziyad Brigade confronted war planes in al-Athareb area, according to a video posted on opposition websites. On the diplomatic front, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met with Egyptian President Mohammad Morsi in Cairo. Lavrov endorsed Morsi's initiative to resume the meetings of the four Middle Eastern powers to attempt to solve the Syrian crisis after Saudi Arabia missed the group's last two meetings. Guest, Male #1 (Sergei Lavrov, Foreign Minister of Russia) The five members at the Security Council are committed to pushing the Syrian government and opposition fighters to accept a ceasefire and initiate peaceful negotiations. Reporter, Female #2 After meeting with the international envoy Lakhdar Brahimi and the chairman of the Arab League, Nabil al-Arabi, Lavorov said the Russian side is trying to convince the fighting Syrian sides to stop the violence and to return to the negotiating table to agree on a transitional government. However, the tripartite meeting didn't end with fruitful results. Reporter, Female #2 From Cairo to al-Doha, the opposition's meetings were productive on the second day. Opposition parties agreed to include new coalitions to the council or commission, that will be declared on Thursday with the attendance of world figures and leaders, to which Doha has started sending invitations for. According to statements by the meetings' attendees, 13 new coalitions joined the initiative, and the council will include nearly 33 percent of the revolutionary movement. In Damascus, and from within the conference for humanitarian aid agencies, Syrian Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal al-Meqdad denounced all these meetings. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-101512?start=1353 <p>Philippines and Muslim separatists sign preliminary peace pact, NATO air strike kills three children in southern Afghanistan, "Yalla Vote" mobilizes Arab-American community to vote in presidential election, and more.</p> Mon, 15 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-101512 Benjamin Netanyahu, Syria, Barack Obama, Taliban, Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Hot Bird, Eutelsat, Helmand Province, Arab American Institute, Syrian Civil War Presenter, Female #1 The Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth lifted the veil off secret peace negotiations between Tel Aviv and Damascus that occurred before the latest tensions erupted in Syria. During the negotiations, Netanyahu expressed willingness to completely withdraw from the occupied Golan Heights. Sources close to Netanyahu rushed to deny the news, claiming the Golan is considered a strategic asset that must not be given up. Reporter, Male #1 This was in 2010. In today's issue, the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth revealed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conducted secret negotiations with the Syrian regime to reach peace between Tel Aviv and Damascus. Behind closed doors, Netanyahu agreed to completely withdrawal from the Golan, including returning to the June 4 borders, in return for full peace with Syria that includes exchanging ambassadors, and mandating Syria to cut its relations with Tehran. Reporter, Male #1 Basing its claim on American documents, Yedioth Ahronoth said that Netanyahu assigned American diplomat Fred Hoff to conduct the secret negotiations. Hoff had worked for the American Navy, and is an expert on border demarcation in disputed areas; he was also responsible for the Syrian-Lebanese file in the Obama administration. Reporter, Male #1 According to Yedioth Ahronoth, the American administration was shocked at the flexibility that Netanyahu expressed during the negotiations and his willingness to withdraw, which exceeded that of any former Israeli prime minister, including Yitzhak Rabi, Ehud Barak and Ehud Olmert. Reporter, Male #1 The newspaper also said that Netanyahu moderated the negotiations in absolute secrecy, and hid them even from his cabinet and from the Mossad and Shabak, and that negotiation sessions took place at his official headquarters in occupied Jerusalem, and at his villa in Caesarea. Reporter, Male #1 The newspaper noted that Barak was the only minister who was aware of these negotiations, in addition to Netanyahu's military advisor Maj.-Gen. Yohanan Loaker, Maj. Gen. Uzi Arad, Netanyahu's political consultant Ron Dermer, and Barak's military advisor Mark Herzog. As for the American side, President Barack Obama, his Vice President Joe Biden, and the mediator Fred Hoff were the only ones who were aware of the details of these negotiations. Reporter, Male #1 According to the newspaper, Netanyahu had agreed to withdraw to the shores of Tabria Lake, as Syria had stipulated the withdrawal must be completed within two years, while Israel preferred a longer period of time. However, bloody events erupted in Syria, and put an end to these negotiations. Netanyahu's office was quick to comment on the news by saying that talks are one initiative among many that the Americans had offered Israel, but that they were rejected, adding that publishing this news at this time was done for political reasons and considerations. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082312?start=1274 <p>Activists lash out at Morocco's loyalty ceremony as "backward," Bahraini police attack protestors mourning slain teenager, Egypt's revolutionary socialists speak out against IMF loan, and more.</p> Thu, 23 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082312 Israel, Syrian Civil War, Iran-Israel relations, US Armed Forces, Aleppo, Protest, Syria, Politics of Syria, Leon Panetta, Iran More foreigners join insurgents as many Syrians celebrate the army's advances in the northwestern city of Aleppo. The militants say the foreigners are fighting alongside them against the Syrian government. Some al-Qaeda-linked militants are also said to be among them. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081012?start=986 <p>Egypt arrests 15 militants linked to deadly attack in Sinai, Amnesty International calls on Bahrain to free prisoners of conscience after "travesty of justice," Turkey hints at military intervention in Syria against Kurdish "terrorists," and more.</p> Fri, 10 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081012 Sinai Peninsula, Syrian Civil War, Israel, Politics of Syria, Egypt, Gaza, Syrian army, Smuggling tunnel, Iran-Israel relations, 2011-2012 Saudi Arabia protests Presenter, Male #1 The arrest of former minister Michel Samaha has preoccupied the Lebanese since the news was reported, in light of the role he's played over the years. Samaha has recently played a leading role in the defense of the Assad regime, and has advised Bashar al-Assad on many Lebanese and foreign issues. Presenter, Female #1 So how was he arrested? And how did the raid lead to the arrest of his driver who was involved in the transportation of explosives? Rabih Shantaff reports. Presenter, Male #1 This is the home of former minister Michel Samaha in the northern Metn town of Jwar al-Khanchara. The Lebanese Internal Security Forces branch of information, and military forces raided this house to arrest Samaha under the orders of acting-state Prosecutor General Samir Hammoud. Presenter, Male #1 Samaha's driver, Fares Barakat, was also detained. Following Samaha's arrest, his homes in al-Khanchara and al-Achrafiyeh were searched, and two cars, computers, DVDs, CDs, and a cell phone were confiscated. According to security information, fully-equipped explosive devices and remote bombs were found but the location of the explosives was not specified since the investigation is still ongoing. The investigation revolves around Samaha's possible involvement in past explosions in a number of areas, and others currently planned, specifically in the region of Akkar. Guest, Female #2 (Gladys Samaha, Wife of Former Minister Michel Samaha) They want it to be lawful, let it be lawful. They have to tell us why he was arrested. He has many lawyers, but we have to know what this is about so we can assign a lawyer. We don't know what this is about! We don't. Of course this is political, and not just because of al-Assad. Michel Samaha represents a red line in the country. Reporter, Male #2 Judge Hammoud indicated that he looked into ongoing investigations with the detained Michel Samaha after the latter was transferred to the branch of information, saying that Samaha is in good health after receiving confirmation from a medical examiner and an Internal Security Forces doctor. He added that Samaha is testifying freely, and that the investigation is ongoing, while no final decision was taken over the arrest of those who were summoned. Legally, Samaha can be held for 96 hours. Then, he must be charged or released. Reporter, Male #2 Security sources informed Future News that the manner in which Samaha was detained indicates that he committed a grave offense, and that there is strong suspicious of his involvement in this case. From in front of the home of former minister Michel Samaha, Rabih Shantaff, Future News. http://news.linktv.org/videos/jordan-establishes-first-official-syrian-refugee-camp?start=0 As the Syrian conflict escalates, more and more Syrians are seeking asylum abroad. To accomodate the influx of refugees, Jordan has opened its first official Syrian refugee camp. Sun, 29 Jul 2012 14:59:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/jordan-establishes-first-official-syrian-refugee-camp Refugee camp, Syria, Syrian Civil War, Jordan-Syria relations, Refugee, Syrian people, Jordan, Foreign relations of Syria, Immigration, Al Jazeera English As the Syrian conflict continues, more and more people are leaving their homes and seeking refuge abroad. Some just cross the borders, while others register officially as refugees. Jordanian officials have processed more than 150,000 refugees - the most of all of Syria's neighbors. To accomodate the influx of refugees the community can no longer absorb, Jordan has opened its first official refugee camp specifically for Syrians. Currently, the 2,000 tents will provide temporary housing to 10,000 refugees. However, if the crisis escalates, the government could expand the camp to shelter up to 113,000 Syrians. Al Jazeera's Nisreen el-Shamayleh reports from Zaatri, North Jordan. http://news.linktv.org/videos/ramadan-becomes-political-tool-in-syria-as-fighting-rages?start=0 As government forces in Syria launch all-out counter attacks in Damascus, religion is also becoming a political weapon. Some Syrians are using the holy month of Ramadan to take a stand against the fighting - and changing the start of their fasting. Sat, 21 Jul 2012 04:53:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/ramadan-becomes-political-tool-in-syria-as-fighting-rages Syrian Civil War, Ramadan, Battle of Damascus, Syria, Religion in Syria, Syrian people, Muslim, Mosque, Military of Syria, Politics of Syria As government forces in Syria launch all-out counter attacks in Damascus to reclaim districts held by rebels, religion is also becoming a political weapon. According to Syrian state television, Saturday marks the first day of Ramadan for Muslims in Syria. But as the violence rages, some Syrians are using the holy month to take a stand against the fighting - and changing the start of their fasting. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-070612?start=744 <p>Sudanese activists protest for third week in hope of sparking popular uprising, militias shut down three oil refineries in eastern Libya, Egypt's Morsi orders investigation into killing of protesters, and more.</p> Fri, 06 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-070612 Libyan Public National Conference election, 2012, Knesset, Libya, Jerusalem, Elections in Libya, Israel, 2011 Libyan Uprising, 2011-2012 Sudanese protests, 2011-2012 Jordanian Protests, 2011 NATO attack in Pakistan Presenter, Male #1 US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton noted that the increase in the number of defections from the Syrian army indicates that soldiers have started to see the truth, evaluate the issue in a sound manner, and are moving on. She viewed the defections as sending a strong message to the Syrian president and his allies. Clinton said that al-Assad and those who surround him will not be part of the equation in Syria, adding that work is now concentrated on guaranteeing the implementation of sanctions against the regime, and spoke of the importance of having countries commit to implementing them. Presenter, Female #1 On the ground, 72 people were killed by al-Assad's brigades; most of them died Damascus, Idlib, and Deir az-Zour. Al-Assad's army raided Jabal al-Zawiya in Idlib, while tanks shelled the city of Maarrat al-Numaan. Clashes erupted between the regime's army and the Free Army in the area of al-Sayyida Zeinab in the countryside of Damascus. And tonight, there were violent clashes between al-Assad's brigades and the Free Army in the neighborhood of al-Tadamun in Damascus. Reporter, Male #2 "The people's liberation war" is the slogan raised by the Syrian opposition on Friday, in a clear message to the world that armed revolution is the only way to topple al-Assad's regime. Supporters of the opposition held mass demonstrations that swept different Syrian cities and towns despite the intensified security deployment, notably near mosques. Protestors chanted anti-regime slogans and confirmed the importance of continuing the revolution until al-Assad's downfall. Reporter, Male #2 The Revolution's General Commission said that clashes between regime forces and the Free Army occurred after shots were fired at protestors in the neighborhood of Salaheddine in Aleppo that lead to a number of casualties. Meanwhile, the civilians' suffering is growing in Homs Province, which is enduring a suffocating siege and difficult humanitarian conditions. Reporter, Male #2 However, al-Assad's brigades are still heavily shelling several areas, especially al-Rastan, al-Qusayr, al-Houla, and Tadmur. The spokesman for the opposition's fighters in Khan Shaykhun announced that al-Assad's brigades are controlling the city located in Idlib after launching an attack that was supported by helicopters. The city of Maarrat al-Numaan in Idlib, in the northwestern part of the country, is being subjected to shelling with tanks, as continuous shelling with missiles and heavy artillery continues in the city of Hreitan in the countryside of Aleppo. Reporter, Male #2 Violent clashes were reported in the neighborhood of Kfar Sousa in Damascus, between al-Assad's brigades and the shabeha on one side, and the Free Syrian Army on the other. The situation in Daraa is similar to that of other governorates, as the city of Ankhil and the town of Nawa and the village of Shajara are being shelled and raided by al-Assad's brigades. Reporter, Male #2 Meanwhile, shelling was renewed in the city of Madaya in the countryside of Damascus with artillery and rocket launchers, which lead to the destruction of 10 homes. The Free Syrian Army confronted al-Assad's brigades in a number of areas, leading to heavy losses for both the brigades and the shabeha. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062512?start=352 Syria says it is against an emergency NATO meeting that will place in Turkey after the downing of a Turkish warplane by Syrian forces, reports Press TV. A spokesman for the Syrian Foreign Ministry said that the aim of the NATO meeting is hostile. Mon, 25 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062512 Syrian Civil War, Egyptian presidential election, 2012, Mohamed Morsi, Israel, Muslim Brotherhood, Egypt, Yemen Uprising, 2011-2012 Sudanese protests, Sanctions against Iran, Israel-Russia relations Syria says it is against an emergency NATO meeting that is to take place in Turkey on Tuesday after the downing of a Turkish warplane by Syrian forces. A spokesman for the Syrian Foreign Ministry said that the aim of the NATO meeting is hostile, and that Damascus would defend its borders at any cost. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062112?start=34 Press TV reports that according to the Syrian government, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey have been the main financiers of the "armed gangs" in Syria. The CIA has also reportedly been involved in supplying weapons to the armed groups. Thu, 21 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062112 Syrian Civil War, Politics of Syria, Palestinians, Syria, Al-Qaeda, Israel, 2012 South Sudan–Sudan border conflict, Egyptian presidential election, 2012, Yemeni al-Qaeda crackdown, Palestinian rocket attacks on Israel The Syrian government says that thousands of young men from Tunisia leave their families to join militant groups in Syria, such as al-Qaeda. Syria has given the UN a list of names of foreign militants arrested in Syria; reports have it that Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey have been the main financiers of the "armed gangs" in Syria. The CIA has also reportedly been working in southern Turkey and involved in the supply of weapons and possibly satellite images to the armed groups. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-061412?start=233 Al-Alam reports that China rejected France's call to make the Annan plan obligatory in Syria, while France explicitly urged escalation in order to topple the regime. The US also expressed dissatisfaction with Russia's rejection of foreign intervention to solve the crisis. Thu, 14 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-061412 Israel, Gaza blockade, Gaza, Gaza–Israel conflict, Palestinians, Supreme Constitutional Court of Egypt, Syrian Civil War, Governance of the Gaza Strip, Nuclear program of Iran, Muammar Gaddafi Presenter, Male #1 Fourteen people were injured in a car bombing in the area of Sayyida Zeinab, peace be upon her, a southern suburb of Damascus, the Syrian capital. International observers inspected the town of al-Haffa that witnessed clashes between the army and gunmen. Meanwhile, China rejected France's call to make the Annan plan obligatory by invoking the United Nations' Chapter 7 provision. Reporter, Male #2 In light of the on-the-ground developments of the Syrian crisis, and as clashes continue between armed groups and government forces while a political solution is still lacking, the positions of European and world capitals have differed on the situation in Syria. Guest, Male #3 (Liu Weimin, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman) China does not approve using pressure and sanctions to resolve the crisis in Syria. We reiterate our support for the mediation efforts exerted by UN envoy Kofi Annan. Reporter, Male #2 Through UN spokesman Martin Nesirky, the international organization expressed fear that a civil war in Syria will not only impact Syria, but also the countries of the region. Guest, Male #4 (Martin Nesirky, UN Spokesman) It's clear that it is not for us to determine or formally characterize the nature of the conflict in Syria. The secretary-general himself has spoken about the dangers of an escalation of this crisis, not just for the country itself, not just for Syria, but for the region. Reporter, Male #2 In contrast to the UN position expressing concern over the eruption of a civil war in Syria, France's position explicitly urged an escalation of the situation in order to topple the regime. It also threatened to impose harsh sanctions on Syria. Guest, Male #5 (Laurent Fabius, French Foreign Minister) The opposition groups must understand that the only future lies in resistance. It is time to make a decision. They should jump off the ship. The situation in Syria is critical, and heading towards a civil war. We need to push the UN Security Council further, and place the Kofi Annan plan under Chapter 7. This means the plan will be mandatory under the threat of tougher sanctions. Reporter, Male #2 The American position was consistent with the French and British calls to intensify sanctions on Syria. The US also expressed dissatisfaction with Moscow's rejection of a foreign intervention to solve the Syria crisis. Guest, Female #1 (Hillary Clinton, US State Secretary) Russia says it wants peace and stability restored. And it also claims to have vital interests in the region and relationships that it wants to continue to keep. They put all of that at risk if they do not move more constructively right now. Reporter, Male #2 In the latest development on the ground in Syria, a bomb exploded near the shrine of Sayyida Zeinab, peace upon her. The Syrian army announced its control of al-Haffa area in the countryside of Latakia, after heavy clashes erupted with armed groups. Damascus called on the international observers to visit the region to inspect the situation there. Reporter, Male #2 The Syrian government also declared the Haritan region in the countryside of Aleppo free of armed groups. Meanwhile, the neighborhoods of Bab al-Sibaa and al-Mreija in the city of Homs are calm after the Syrian military forces managed to cleanse them of armed groups, paving the way for reconstruction and rebuilding. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-060512?start=659 <p>Egyptians rally in Tahrir Square to demand revolutionary justice, Erdogan asserts Turkey's regional role as Istanbul hosts the World Economic Forum, forced displacement of Palestinians continues on the 45th anniversary of the Naksa, and more.</p> Tue, 05 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-060512 Illegal immigration from Africa to Israel, Jerusalem, Israel, Migrant worker, Illegal Immigration, Hosni Mubarak, Naksa, Syrian Civil War, Nuclear program of Iran, Human rights in Bahrain Presenter, Female #1 Russia stressed that keeping Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in power is not a precondition. The Gulf Cooperation Council condemned the violence against civilians. And the Syrian Foreign Ministry confirmed the ambassadors of Western countries are no longer welcome in Damascus. Reporter, Female #2 The Syrian crisis was present in Russian President Vladimir Putin's discussions in Beijing. Putin is there to attend a security summit. Chinese TV confirmed the Russian president and his Chinese counterpart Hu Jintao urged the international community to support the plan of the UN envoy Kofi Annan. Reporter, Female #2 Meanwhile, Russia confirmed that maintaining the Syrian president in power is not a precondition to reaching a solution in Syria. On the sidelines of the meeting of the Islamic Development Bank Group in Jeddah, the UN secretary-general urged President Bashar al-Assad's government to immediately end the violence. Guest, Male #1 (Ban Ki-moon, UN Secretary-General) We are deeply troubled by what has been going on. President Bashar al-Assad's government must stop the violence immediately in the name of humanity, and start a political dialogue with its foes. Annan's plan remains central to the resolution of the Syrian crisis. Reporter, Female #2 In another development, the Gulf Cooperation Council condemned the ongoing violence against civilians in Syria. Guest, Male #2 (Saud al-Faisal, Saudi Foreign Minister) We hold the UN Security Council responsible for fulfilling its duties as stipulated by the UN Charter, and take the necessary measures to guarantee the immediate implementation of the joint envoy's plan, in accordance with Chapter 7 of the Charter. Reporter, Female #2 Meanwhile, after meeting with the head of the observers' delegation Robert Mood, Syrian Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal al-Miqdad confirmed that Syria is keen to successfully implement the Annan plan. Guest, Male #3 (Faisal al-Miqdad, Syrian Deputy Foreign Minister) The impasse was not caused by the Syrian side, but by the other side. We have long waited for the other side to correct its policies and positions, so that it will provide the necessary support to Annan's mission and the observers' mission. But unfortunately, we were forced to take these measures because the others do not want this delegation to succeed in its mission, nor do they want Syria to restore stability and security. Reporter, Female #2 The Syrian Foreign Ministry issued a statement announcing that ambassadors of Western countries are no longer welcome in the country. On the ground, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed that regime forces stormed the town of al-Hafa in the countryside of Latakia amid fierce clashes with some fighters. Reporter, Female #2 The Observatory said earlier that regime forces, reinforced with tanks and personnel carriers, also stormed the town of Kfar Zita in the countryside of Hama. Meanwhile, artillery shelling continues on neighborhoods in Homs. On the other hand, the Observatory said five security members were injured when an explosive device was detonated in the city of Idlib. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-053112?start=787 In Syria, 14 people were killed Thursday, most in the shelling of Homs Province, reports BBC Arabic. The Syrian National Council called on UN observers to quickly head to al-Houla to protect the remaining civilians after a wave of people fled the region. Thu, 31 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-053112 Israel, Car bomb, Iran, Ghazaliya, Palestinians, Human rights in the United Arab Emirates, Iran-Israel relations, Syrian Civil War, Baku, Illegal immigration from Africa to Israel Presenter, Male #1 In Syria, 14 people were killed today, including nine who died in the shelling of the city of al-Qasir in Homs Province. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, rockets fell on the city of al-Houla as well. The Local Coordination Committees said Syrian regime forces attempted to take over al-Qasir and its surrounding villages. The Syrian National Council called on the international observers' delegation to quickly head to al-Houla to end the shelling, and protect the remaining civilians that are there after a wave of people fled the region. Reporter, Male #2 International pressure has not succeeded in ending the violence and the military operations, nor has it healed the region of al-Houla, which witnessed a massacre last week that was condemned by the world. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and the Coordination Committees, and a number of activists reported the shelling was resumed Thursday morning on al-Houla of Homs Province, and that a boy died this morning in Til Taw after being shot by a sniper. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said people are fleeing the areas getting shelled in fear of a new massacre, and heading toward other towns in the region of al-Houla. On the other hand, the Syrian authorities released 500 detainees, saying they have no blood on their hands. Guest, Female #1 (Syrian TV) Specialized institutions released 500 people who were involved in the events that Syria has been witnessing, since their hands were not stained with blood. Reporter, Male #2 In the latest news of defections, a group of defectors formed the armored brigade of Khan Shaykhun. They also burned a tank and captured a soldier, who later saluted the Free Army. Reporter, Male #2 In Damascus and Aleppo, as well as in a large number of areas, people are on strike, and shops are closed. On the other hand, there are attempts to urge or violently force people to open their shops. Reporter, Male #2 These young women did not hesitate to gather, rally, and protest to express their support. Reporter, Male #2 Politically, US State Secretary Hillary Clinton sharply criticized Russia over its rejection of any UN intervention in Syria. She warned that Russia's policies may lead to a civil war in the country. For his part, the head of the opposition Syrian National Council Burhan Ghalioun rejected Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov's accusation that he is inciting civil war. Ghalioun called on Moscow to cooperate with the international community. In a conference in Istanbul, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said "the massacres of the sort seen last weekend could plunge Syria into a catastrophic civil war." Guest, Male #4 (Ban Ki-Moon, UN Secretary-General) The UN did not deploy in Syria just to bear witness to the slaughter of innocents. We are not there to play the role of passive observer to unspeakable atrocities. Reporter, Male #2 The pressure and search for an exit from the Syrian crisis is ongoing. As for al-Houla, it continues to mourn its dead. On Thursday, it held a funeral for two of its dead amid angry chants. Essam Abdullah, BBC. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052912?start=35 BBC Arabic reports that the US has decided to expel the Syrian charge d'affaires in Washington, Zuheir Jabbour, on account of the Houla massacre. France and Australia have similarly asked Syrian diplomats to leave and close their embassies. Tue, 29 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052912 Israel, Syrian Civil War, Sudan, Ramallah, Yemen, Iran, Syria, Beersheba, Houla massacre, Egyptian presidential election, 2012 Presenter, Male #1 Syrian Local Coordination Committees said that 55 people, including six children, were killed today, most of them in Homs City. Opposition sources indicated that armed dissidents killed 20 soldiers in violent clashes that were witnessed in the town of Atarib in Aleppo Province. Demonstrations broke out across the province to support the cities and towns subject to the shelling. Reporter, Female #1 According to activists, this is the battlefield in the residential town of Atarib in Aleppo Province, where fierce clashes continued between regime forces and the Free Syrian Army for the second consecutive day. Videos uploaded online showed the impact of the shelling that the town has endured. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that regime forces withdrew from the town to bombard it from a distance. Guest, Male #2 Assad's brigades violated the ceasefire by launching rockets on the town in a violent and indiscriminate shelling, until dark clouds covered the town of Atarib. In addition, the Free Army was forced to respond to the Assad brigades' assaults, which caused violent clashes to erupt. Reporter, Female #1 Meanwhile, the UN observers' delegation was visiting the town of Azaz, which welcomed them in its own way. News from Aleppo was absent from Syrian state media. Syrian TV said special organizations raided what it referred to as "nests" of the armed groups in Hama, and confiscated a large amount of weapons and ammunition. Guest, Female #2 (Syrian TV) ?An explosive device equipped with a timer, PK machine guns, and a large number of bullets, ammunition, hand grenades and poison gas... Reporter, Female #1 On the other hand, the activists' cameras captured scenes of what they said were special organizations carrying out their real mission of raiding and robbing the activists' homes. In Damascus, strikes continued for a second day in certain areas of Old Damascus, such as the neighborhoods of al-Sina'a in Shaghur and Halbouni in the central parts of the capital. The opposition's Shaam News Network documented 58 sites on strike in Damascus on Monday. In the neighborhood of at-Tadamun, hundreds have come out to a funeral for Mohamed Faraa, a child who was killed by the gunfire of security forces, according to activists. Reporter, Female #1 These days, it seems like the only thing consistent in Syria's reality is the chaotic situation on the ground, which is developing separately from the changing course of diplomatic and international activity. Zaina al-Hayyam, BBC. Presenter, Male #1 In this context, the Geneva-based UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights said that in its preliminary investigations, at least 20 of the victims in the Houla massacre, which took place last Friday, were killed in artillery shelling. The preliminary reports added that the remaining victims, including children, were executed nearby. Presenter, Male #1 A spokesman for the U.S. State Department told the BBC that the U.S. administration decided to expel the Syrian charge d'affaires in Washington, Zuheir Jabbour, in response to the Houla massacre. The spokesman added that this decision was made in coordination with allied countries, affirming that the United States holds the Syrian government responsible for this massacre. Presenter, Male #1 French President Francois Hollande announced the expulsion of the Syrian ambassador in Paris on account of the Houla massacre. Australia also announced that it has requested the charge d'affaires, as well as other diplomats in the Syrian embassy in Canberra, to leave Australia within 72 hours. Presenter, Male #1 As for British Foreign Minister William Hague, he reaffirmed the commitment of his country and its allies to pressuring the Syrian regime to adhere to the Annan plan. This comes after a decision was issued to expel the Syrian diplomats from London. Hague added that he agrees with Russia on the necessity of Damascus' commitment to the Annan plan, denying that there is any plan for military intervention.