http://news.linktv.org Link TV News Videos (Filtered by topics: Hama Governorate) en-us Mon, 17 Sep 2012 11:36:00 -0700 Copyright 2011 Link Media, Inc. http://news.linktv.org/videos/caught-between-assad-and-al-qaeda-the-lost-syrian-town?start=0 French photo-journalist Mani visits the "lost" town of Latamneh in Hama Governorate, where residents are turning to extreme measures to defend themselves, including manufacturing improvised weapons and turning to al-Qaeda for help. Mon, 17 Sep 2012 11:36:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/caught-between-assad-and-al-qaeda-the-lost-syrian-town Syrian Civil War, Civilian casualties, Free Syrian Army, Syria, Hama Governorate, Improvised explosive device, Bashar al-Assad, Al-Qaeda, Explosive belt, United Nations French photo-journalist Mani visits the "lost" town of Latamneh in Hama Governorate, where residents are turning to extreme measures to defend themselves. The town was the site of a horrific massacre that killed 65 people, many from the same family, in an attack by government forces that lasted just half an hour. Fearing further violence, and feeling abandoned by foreign governments, they are manufacturing improvised weapons including land mines and suicide belts. Some say there are ready to turn to al-Qaeda for help. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091412?start=471 <p>Four Yemenis killed in US embassy clashes over anti-Islam video, Western embassies come under attack in Sudan and Tunisia, Pope Benedict calls for religious tolerance as violence rages in nearby Syria, and more.</p> Fri, 14 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091412 United States, Anti-Americanism, Tehran, Friday prayers, Iran, Innocence of Muslims, Muhammad, Islam, 2012 US diplomatic missions attacks, Syrian Civil War Presenter, Male #1 The Syrian Revolution General Commission said 62 people were killed today by regime forces. Most of the victims were killed in Daraa, Deir az-Zour, and the countryside of Damascus. Activists said that several people, including women and children, were killed as a result of shelling that targeted two residential buildings in the eastern neighborhood of Busra al-Sham in Daraa. Images uploaded online showed massive destruction in the area, as residents attempted to rescue victims buried under the rubble. Presenter, Male #1 Meanwhile, government forces used helicopters and military planes to shell al-Rastan and neighborhoods in the provinces of Aleppo and Deir az-Zour, as well as Idlib, Hama, and al-Zabadani. An arrest campaign was carried out in Duma and the Palestinian refugee camp in Latakia. Reporter, Male #2 It's a new Friday of anti-government demonstrations calling for the downfall of the regime. Demonstrations witnessed a decline over the past week, with the increase in the level of violence and war. This Friday, demonstrations are once again returning to the scene, according to activists. Reporter, Male #2 While the Arab and Islamic worlds are continuing their preoccupation with the protests and unrest sparked by the film insulting the prophet Muhammad, Syrian opposition activists are insisting that their voices be heard. Reporter, Male #2 According to them, what has been happening in Syria over the past year and a half deserves stronger solidarity from Arabs and Muslims, as shown on these slogans. Reporter, Male #2 These recorded clips, which activists uploaded online, show a geographical expansion of the demonstrations, starting from cities and towns across Daraa, to the countryside of Damascus, to Idlib, and to al-Hasaka Province, with its Kurdish majority. Reporter, Male #2 Every day, people are killed or injured by the shelling, raids, and clashes raging in these hotspot areas. These are images of destroyed homes in Busra al-Sham in Daraa. Activists say the Syrian army shelled them with attack helicopters. Reporter, Male #2 In Aleppo, clashes between regime forces and the opposition continued. It was reported that regime forces removed the bodies of people killed in the Salaheddine neighborhood, where evidence of destruction was clearly visible on the buildings. Syrian state television confirmed that security forces are maintaining full control of the areas of Bina Heritani, al-Ma'ahad al-Riyadi, and Tawleed Hospital in the city of Aleppo. Reporter, Male #2 Clashes were reported in some neighborhoods in Damascus, specifically in the al-Qadam neighborhood, which was stormed by security forces, as confirmed by activists. The Syrian government said that its forces are continuing to pursue those they describe as terrorists in parts of the Damascus countryside, Daraa, Hama, and others. It also said that security forces confiscated weapons, ammunition, and bombs. Wael al-Hajjar, BBC. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091312?start=537 In Syria, shelling continues in Aleppo and Damascus, as UN-Arab League Special Envoy to Syria Lakhdar Brahimi, arrived in Syria in his first visit since assuming his post, Future TV reports. Thu, 13 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091312 United States, Israel, Iran, 2012 US diplomatic missions attacks, Nuclear program of Iran, Islam, Tehran, International Atomic Energy Agency, Bahrain, Palestinians Presenter, Male #1 In Syria, Assad's brigades continued their barbaric bombing of several areas, using fighter jets and artillery. On the other hand, the Free Syrian Army achieved a notable advancement in the Maidan neighborhood in central Aleppo, according to military sources and witnesses. Reporter, Male #2 Rockets, shells, and massacres. All of them spell a single word: Killing. Dozens of people were killed or injured after two buildings were completely destroyed by explosive barrels dropped by Assad's planes on the al-Mayser neighborhood in Aleppo. The bombardment also targeted the neighborhoods of al-Sukkari and al-Qaterji, as well as other areas in Aleppo's countryside. Reporter, Male #2 In a new development, the Free Syrian Army announced the expansion of its control in Aleppo after seizing two security posts in the al-Maidan and al-Sheikh neighborhoods. Activists said that clashes erupted between the Free Syrian Army and the regime army in the al-Maidan, al-Sheikh, and Arqoub neighborhoods. Guest, Male #3 Members of the Free Syrian Army destroyed one of statues of the late Hafez al-Assad. Reporter, Male #2 In Damascus, al-Assad's brigades and shabeha resumed their shelling of the capital's southern neighborhoods, including al-Hajar al-Aswad, al-Qadam, and al-Tadamon. In addition, regime forces and shabeha used bulldozers to demolish residents' homes in the Qabun neighborhood. The rebels said regime forces assassinated former Member of Parliament Ahmad al-Turk, and kidnapped four members of his family, in Harasta in the countryside of Damascus. Meanwhile, a number of Syrian brigades announced the formation of a unified front called the Syrian Liberation Front. Reporter, Male #2 In Idlib Province, regime shelling sparked fires in a number of buildings. In the town of Qastoun in Hama's countryside, Assad's tanks indiscriminately shelled the residents' homes. In Deir az-Zour, dozens were killed in a raid by the regime air force using Russian-made MiG planes on a school housing refugees in the town of al-Souaia. The shelling resulted in the deaths of two families, including women and children. Several neighborhoods in Deir az-Zour and al-Bukamal also came under shelling. Presenter, Female #1 On the political front, the UN-Arab League envoy, Lakhdar Brahimi, arrived in Syria in his first visit since assuming his post. He met with Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem, and he is scheduled to meet with President Bashar al-Assad. Brahimi said that he realizes the difficulty of his mission, but vows to do everything in his power to assist the Syrian people. Presenter, Male #1 During a visit to the European Union's headquarters, Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi reiterated that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad must step down. Guest, Male #4 We insist that the regime must change in Syria. That's what we have agreed upon with the European Union today, that we are all against what's being perpetrated by the regime, not only in words and statements, but also with persistence and action. It will take all kinds of pressure on this regime in order to allow Syrians to decide for themselves. This regime has no place in Syria after the killings and bloodshed committed against Syrians. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083112?start=998 <p>Yemeni street witnesses renewed mobilization against military rule, Iraq denies existence of al-Qaeda-affiliated Free Iraqi Army, Hezbollah rejects deployment of UN forces to Syrian-Lebanese border, and more.</p> Fri, 31 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083112 Syrian Civil War, Nuclear program of Iran, International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran, Yemen, Syria, Israel, Yemen Uprising, 2011-2012 Jordanian Protests, Iraqi Army Presenter, Female #1 The Syrian Revolution's General Commission said that 37 people were killed today, most of them in Homs, as a result of the shelling on its old neighborhoods. And as clashes are reportedly continuing to rage in the city of Aleppo, opposition activists said areas in Daraa, Deir az-Zour, Idlib, the countryside of Damascus, and others were shelled. Protests were also held, during which opposition members called for the downfall of the Syrian regime. Reporter, Male #1 Daraya, in the countryside of Damascus, and the northern Lebanese city of Tripoli shared the name of this Friday's demonstration. Syrian opposition members took to the street in various parts of the country to call for the downfall of the regime, as accustomed to since the beginning of the uprising. Reporter, Male #1 The massacres that the opposition says regime forces are committing on a daily basis were reflected in the chants of the demonstrators who cried out in anger at what they view as the silence of the international community. President Bashar al-Assad also had his share of chants and slogans in response to his latest interview with the pro-government channel, Al-Dunya TV. Reporter, Male #1 But for quite some time now, the Friday demonstration is not the only event that occurs. The shelling and the search for bodies in the rubble of the buildings, which are destroyed by the Syrian army's artillery or its fighter jets, has become a daily part of the lives of the Syrian people, as shown here in Aleppo's town of Abu Thuhur. Reporter, Male #1 The same applies to the abduction of government members, and their display in video clips. Official Syrian media said government forces destroyed dozens of cars carrying machineguns in the countryside of Aleppo, and raided a rebel-held base in Homs, killing a number of rebels. Reporter, Male #1 Meanwhile, the city of Aleppo witnessed intense clashes, particularly in the neighborhoods of Saif al-Dawla, Hanano, and al-Sakhour, according to activists. Parts of Daraa Province came under violent shelling and witnessed clashes as well. Guest, Male #2 The shelling targets the eastern neighborhoods at times and the western parts of the city at others. The situation in the city of Busra al-Harir is bad. We saw a massacre that took the lives of almost 35 people. There are many injured in this town. Reporter, Male #1 Opposition activists spoke of executions in the countryside of Damascus as battles, shelling, and gunfire was reported in the provinces of Deir az-Zour and Hama. Wael al-Hajjar, BBC. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081712?start=35 BBC Arabic reported clashes between the Free Syrian Army and regime forces in the Syrian city of Aleppo near the military airport, in the neighborhoods of Salaheddine, the Atma Souk, and Saif al-Dawla, as well as increased shelling of the area. Fri, 17 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081712 Israel, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Palestinian rocket attacks on Israel, Free Syrian Army, Lebanon, Palestinians, Quds Day, Hassan Nasrallah, Al-Aqsa Mosque Presenter, Female #1 The Syrian Revolution's General Commission reported clashes between the Free Army and regime forces near the military airport in the Tarrab neighborhood in the city of Aleppo. The BBC correspondent in Damascus said the neighborhoods of Salaheddine, the Atma Souk, and Saif al-Dawla in Aleppo are witnessing clashes between regime forces and armed opposition fighters. Presenter, Female #1 Videos posted by activists online showed several neighborhoods being shelled with military planes, including Tal Rifaat and Jarjanaz. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said today's death toll caused by the gunfire of the government forces rose to 110. Reporter, Male #1 First, there's shelling and clashes between the Free Syrian Army and government forces. Then, the scale of destruction is revealed and the death toll announced. This is the scene Syrians are living daily. Opposition sources say most of the victims are civilians, while the government says they are members of the armed groups. Damascus, where hit-and-run battles are ongoing, witnessed clashes near the Mezze military district, and dozens of bodies were retrieved in the town of Katma in the countryside of Damascus. Opposition sources say that most mosques in the city of Idlib are now surrounded by government forces attempting to prevent demonstrations. Reporter, Male #1 The town of Izaz in the countryside of Aleppo was subjected to air strikes by military planes, and rescue operations are ongoing there as chances to find survivors are dwindling. And as opposition sources are indicating, clashes are taking place near Aleppo's airport. The official Syrian TV announced that government forces are in control of the main road leading to the airport, and have expelled the armed groups present there. Reporter, Male #1 Videos posted by activists online showed the government forces using military planes to shell sites controlled by the Free Syrian Army. The armed opposition said that regime forces have recently intensified the use of military planes and helicopters in an attempt to avoid direct confrontations with members of the Free Syrian Army, and to limit losses among regime soldiers. Reporter, Male #1 Protests broke out in several Syrian cities in opposition to the Assad regime and in support of the Free Syrian Army, including Kfar Zita, al-Latamna in Hama, and Ammouda, as regime forces continue to raid a number of cities and neighborhoods, especially those witnessing a tense security situation. Presenter, Female #1 On the political front, the Russian news agency, RIA Novosti, reported that a Russia-sponsored meeting for the Action Group on Syria that was scheduled for today at the United Nations headquarters in New York was postponed indefinitely. The Russian delegation at the international organization issued a statement stressing the meeting was postponed due to requests by a number of the action group's member states. Members include ambassadors of the Security Council's permanent members, and some of Syria's neighboring states. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071712?start=35 Dubai TV reports that fierce clashes erupted between the Syrian regime's army and the Free Syrian Army across various neighborhoods of Damascus, leading to a large-scale displacement of residents. Tue, 17 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071712 Addis Ababa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Mohamed Morsi, Syrian Civil War, Bahrain Uprising, Persian Gulf, African Union, Kadima, Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee Presenter, Male #1 Damascus is no longer immune from the gunfire that was sparked by the Syrian crisis some 16 months ago. According to the Syrian Revolution Coordination Union, fierce clashes erupted between the regime's army and the Free Syrian Army across various neighborhoods of the capital, including al-Midan, al-Tadamun and the Sabaa Bahrat Square in central Damascus. The clashes led to a large-scale displacement of the residents. Presenter, Male #1 In response, the regime's army heavily deployed armored vehicles and military machinery in the capital. Turkey announced the defection of a Syrian general and several military officers, who arrived in Turkey yesterday among 1,200 refugees. Hanan al-Hayedri has the details. Reporter, Female #1 The volcanic eruption of the Syrian crisis is making its way to the den of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in central Damascus. Under this theme, the Free Syrian Army launched a widescale attack on the Syrian capital. Reporter, Female #1 For the second consecutive day, fierce clashes described as street battles have been raging between the regime's forces and members of the Free Syrian Army. The battles may change the path of the Syrian revolution. In al-Midan neighborhood, overlooking the city's center and vital areas, clashes are continuing to rage. Reporter, Female #1 The clashes turned Damascus into what appeared to be a military zone, where regime forces deployed armored vehicles along the main roads and stationed snipers on rooftops, especially in the residential neighborhood of al-Midan. The Free Syrian Army was redeployed in the neighborhood's alleys, where the two armies exchanged fire. Reporter, Female #1 In neighborhoods adjacent to al-Midan, fierce clashes are continuing, especially in al-Tadamun, Kafr Susa, al-Zahera, Juber, and al-Mazza, which is not far from Bashar al-Assad's stronghold. In addition, clashes are raging in the neighborhoods of al-Assali and al-Qaboun. Reporter, Female #1 The Free Syrian Army has stepped up its attacks in what appeared to be a strategic move with the aim of opening a new battlefront in the Syrian capital. The Syrian army issued a statement confirming that the capital is witnessing a widescale aggression, and called for cutting off all major and international roads. Reporter, Female #1 Far from Damascus, the scene is not different. Regime forces are continuing to launch air and artillery shelling across various neighborhoods in Aleppo, Hama, Daraa, Idlib, and Homs. The Syrian army announced that it has regained control of the city of Talbisa. Reporter, Female #1 The expansion of battles to the neighborhoods of Damascus and other cities represents a key turning point in the Syrian crisis, which the international community has still failed to resolve. http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-opposition-transition-deal-out-of-the-question-after-latest-massacre?start=0 Syrian opposition spokesperson Bassma Kodmani has said that any power transition deal involving the formation of a unity government is now "out of the question" after the more than 150 people were reportedly killed in the village of Tremseh. Fri, 13 Jul 2012 11:07:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-opposition-transition-deal-out-of-the-question-after-latest-massacre Tremseh massacre, Syria, Tremseh, Syrian army, Syrian National Council, Syrian Civil War, Bassma Kodmani, Hama Governorate, National unity government, Kofi Annan peace plan for Syria Syrian opposition spokesperson Bassma Kodmani has said that any power transition deal involving the formation of a unity government is now "out of the question" after the latest massacre in the country. More than 150 people were reportedly killed on Thursday by the Syrian army and pro-regime militia in the village of Tremseh in the central province of Hama, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights activist group. http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-activists-220-killed-in-tremseh-massacre?start=0 Opposition activists say Syrian government troops have killed 220 people in a new massacre in the city of Hama, while rumors also circulate over the regime's possible use of chemical weapons. Fri, 13 Jul 2012 09:20:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-activists-220-killed-in-tremseh-massacre Tremseh massacre, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Tremseh, Civilian casualties, Hama Governorate, Attack helicopter, Tank, Protest, Chemical weapon Opposition activists say Syrian government troops have killed 220 people in a new massacre in the city of Hama, while rumors also circulate over the regime's possible use of chemical weapons. http://news.linktv.org/videos/more-than-150-dead-in-new-syrian-massacre?start=0 Syrian government troops using artillery and attack helicopters have reportedly killed more than 150 people in the village of Tremseh in the central region of Hama, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has told the AFP news agency. Thu, 12 Jul 2012 16:54:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/more-than-150-dead-in-new-syrian-massacre Tremseh massacre, Syrian Civil War, Hama Governorate, Syria, Tremseh, Civilian casualties, Syrian army, Attack helicopter, Alawite, Sunni Islam Syrian government troops using artillery and attack helicopters have killed more than 150 people in the village of Tremseh in the central region of Hama, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has told the AFP news agency. "Government troops bombarded the village using tanks and helicopters," Observatory chief Rami Abdel Rahman said on Thursday, putting the death toll at more than 150. Rula Amin reports from neighboring Lebanon. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071212?start=755 <p>Mali's Tuaregs driven out of last stronghold as military intervention looms, thousands of Saudi protesters demand release of prominent cleric al-Nimr, Kuwaiti women score victory with swimmer's participation in Olympic Games, and more.</p> Thu, 12 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071212 Iron Dome, Eilat, Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Palestinians, Israel, Israel Defense Forces, 2012 insurgency in the Azawad, 2011-2012 Saudi Arabia protests, Rivers State, Ehud Olmert Presenter, Female #1 On the Syrian domestic front, 51 people were killed so far by the gunfire of the brutal al-Assad brigades that are continuing their violent shelling of Syrian cities. And today, for the first time, mortar shells were used in Kafr Susa in Damascus. Human Rights Watch revealed that the regime's forces are using internationally-banned cluster munitions. Reporter, Male #1 After Annan admitted his failure to solve the Syrian crisis, the Syrian opposition is calling for protesting on Friday under the banner of "The Friday to topple Annan," describing him as al-Assad and Iran's servant. And on its Facebook page, the Syrian opposition listed Annan's failures in his previous missions in Rwanda, Kosovo, and Somalia, and called for continuing the revolution until al-Assad's downfall. Reporter, Male #1 For the first time since the revolution started, activists in the neighborhood of Kafr Susa in the center of the capital said that al-Assad's brigades are using mortar shells in the area of al-Basateen, on the outskirts of the city, to force the revolutionaries who are believed to be hiding there to come out. Reporter, Male #1 At dawn on Thursday, violent clashes broke out in the neighborhoods of al-Qadam and al-Asali in Damascus, between the Free Syrian Army and al-Assad's brigades. And in the capital's countryside, al-Assad's brigades and shabeha raided many towns, especially Daraya, with the backing of dozens of tanks and military vehicles, and carried out an indiscriminate arrest campaign. In response, the Free Army-affiliated al-Mujahideen brigade was formed. Guest, Male #2 I announce the formation of al-Mujahideen brigade, al-Qalamoun branch, that consists of civilians and military personnel. It includes eight brigades, and, God willing, they will be announced soon. We ask for your prayers and for victory from God. And God is the best of helpers. Reporter, Male #1 In Homs, which is still receiving a share of al-Assad's artillery and mortar shells, activists describe the humanitarian condition there as tragic, due to the suffocating siege imposed by al-Assad's brigades. Children expressed their opinion on the violence and destruction in Homs. Guest, Male #3 We are besieged by Bashar al-Assad; if it wasn't for the Free Army, they would have slaughtered us. I want to ask Damascus to send us food. We have no milk, no water, no bread. We are eating dry bread; I am hungry. Send us food, Damascus, and other countries. What is this? Our house was bombed; we have no more clothes. Reporter, Male #1 And as part of the roving massacres, activists said dozens of people were killed by the gunfire of al-Assad's brigades in Idlib and Hama, with a town there subjected to violent and indiscriminate shelling. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said gunmen loyal to the regime opened fire at cars traveling between Jisr al-Shughur and Latakia, near the town of Khan al-Jouz in Latakia Province, adding that the deaths of 23 citizens were reported. Reporter, Male #1 And in a notable development, Human Rights Watch announced that it believes that al-Assad's brigades are using Soviet-produced cluster bombs in a mountainous region of Hama that is rebelling against the regime. Reporter, Male #1 The organization noted that two videos posted online confirm the presence of cluster munition remnants and Soviet-produced submunitions, apparently found in Jabal Shahshabu, a mountainous area in northwestern Hama. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071012?start=520 UN-Arab envoy to Syria Kofi Annan said he will brief the UN Security Council on Wednesday about the outcome of his talks on the Syrian crisis, reports BBC Arabic. On the ground, 41 people were killed by government fire, mostly in Deir az-Zour and Aleppo. Tue, 10 Jul 2012 17:26:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071012 2011-2012 Saudi Arabia protests, Nimr al-Nimr, Shia Islam, Saudi Arabia, Israel, US-Pakistan relations, 2011-2012 Sudanese protests, Syrian Civil War, Ehud Olmert, Palestinian prisoners in Israel Presenter, Male #1 In Baghdad, UN-Arab envoy to Syria, Kofi Annan, said he will brief the UN Security Council on Wednesday about the outcome of his talks on the Syrian crisis. Earlier in Tehran, Annan said there's talk of a political process that has yet to begin. Meanwhile, a Syrian opposition delegation visited Moscow in a bid to narrow the gap between the Syrian opposition and Russia over finding a solution to the conflict in Syria. Presenter, Male #1 On the ground, the Local Coordination Committees said that 41 people, mostly in Deir al-Zour and Aleppo, were killed by security gunfire and shelling by government forces. The Syrian official SANA news agency said they have foiled an infiltration attempt by armed groups coming from the Lebanese territories. Reporter, Male #2 The display of military capabilities and various weapons is continuing in Syria, where the Syrian army has been conducting maneuvers for days. The drills were attended by senior officials, notably Defense Minister Daud Rajha and Deputy Defense Minister General Talal Mustafa Tlass, who is a relative but not the son of General Mustafa Tlass. Reporter, Male #2 Amid the maneuvers, the official Syrian news agency said security forces foiled an infiltration attempt by what it referred to as a "terrorist" group coming from the Lebanese territories. The security forces also detained armed assailants in the countryside of Idlib. It seems the Syrian government is continuing to claim that its security forces are waging a war exclusively against groups described by the regime as "rebels and terrorists." This comes despite the latest statement issued by UN-Arab envoy to Syria, Kofi Annan, who said the Syrian government has accepted a deal to hold talks with the armed opposition. Reporter, Male #2 On the other hand, the opposition has a different story. Opposition activists said that the Syrian army and security forces continue to carry out military operations using heavy weapons across various regions. According to various reports, clashes erupted following attacks by the armed opposition on Syrian army bases. Incoming reports from Daraa confirmed the storming of the city by security forces. In addition, several soldiers announced their defection at a security checkpoint. Reporter, Male #2 According to reports by the opposition, several people were killed or injured in a shelling targeting the city of Homs, al-Rastan, and the countrysides of Aleppo, Hama, and Idlib. Amid the military operations and clashes, the Syrian opposition held demonstrations across various regions, demanding the downfall of the regime. The demonstrators also criticized the international mediation efforts aimed at resolving the crisis, and accused them of failing to protect civilians. Wael al-Hajjar, BBC. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-070912?start=529 <p>Saudi Arabia's crackdown on protests in Qatif leaves two dead, South Sudan's first anniversary of independence marred by growing tension, Libya's former transitional council chief leads early election results, and more.</p> Mon, 09 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-070912 Israel, Syrian Civil War, Shia Islam, Syria, Nimr al-Nimr, South Sudan, Mahmoud Jibril, Islamic Action Society, Supreme Constitutional Court of Egypt, Golan Heights Presenter, Male #1 On the political front, Russian President Vladimir Putin called for a peaceful political solution in Syria. In a statement aired on Russian TV, he said the situation in Syria requires dialogue between the regime and the opposition, in order to guarantee a lasting peace, instead of foreign intervention. Guest Male #2 (Vladimir Putin, Russian President) I am fully convinced that we must do all we can to force the disputed parties to find a peaceful political solution to settle all disputes. This may lead to a long-term settlement and a stable development. Presenter, Male #1 On the ground, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that 37 people were killed today by the gunfire of the regime's army. Most of them died in Idlib, Hama, and the countryside of Damascus. On the other hand, the Revolution's General Commission reported that the towns of Qatana and Deir al-Asafeer in the countryside of Damascus were subjected to shelling by the regime's army. Syrian activists reported that violent clashes occurred between the regime's army and the Free Army on the southern circinate road in Damascus. Reporter, Female #1 The target was bombed as identified. And the target here is civilian homes in the towns of Sahl al-Ghab in Syria. As for the weapons, they belong to the regime's army, according to activists who obtained the leaked video, but do not know the exact date of the bombing. Reporter, Female #1 Another leaked video shows the Syrian forces raiding homes. And a third shows the destruction and looting as it appears here in a conversation between soldiers in the city of Tadmur in Homs Province. Reporter, Female #1 The activists captured on film other operations by the regime's army against revolting cities, and the shelling of several neighborhoods in Deir az-Zour and the neighborhoods of al-Khalidiya, al-Sultaniya, al-Basateen, and Jobar in Homs, and the city of Izaz in the countryside of Aleppo and Khirbet Ghazala and Daraa al-Balad in Daraa. Reporter, Female #1 And the result: deaths and injuries, the most notable pictures coming from the city of Ariha in Idlib, where events were described as a massacre, but whose images can't be entirely broadcast due to their graphic content. This comes as the destruction of buildings and properties continues across bombarded areas. The Syrian army's heavy mobilization against those revolting against the regime, since protests erupted 16 months ago, shifted the path of the revolution from peaceful protests to a military confrontation led by the Free Syrian Army, which has been recently gaining momentum on the ground. Reporter, Female #1 The clashes with the regime's army are becoming increasingly violent in the areas witnessing heavy artillery shelling, as seen here in Jouret al-Shayyah in Homs. Capturing areas is also increasing as it appears in Homs's Talbisa, where the Free Army is seen patrolling areas outside the control of the regime and is celebrating its seizure of heavy and light equipment. Reporter, Female #1 Despite the expansion of military operations, the Syrian revolutionaries are continuing to hold peaceful protests demanding freedom, similar to those that sparked their revolution. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062712?start=36 Emad Sara, director of the news channel Al-Ekhbariya, denounced the attack on the channel this morning that killed three journalists, reports BBC Arabic. Meanwhile, the UN released a report saying that the violence in Syria is spiraling out of control. Wed, 27 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062712 United Nations, Iraq, Syrian Civil War, Nouri al-Maliki, Bahrain Uprising, Politics of Sudan, Lebanese people, Anti-Zionism, Economy of Israel, United Nations Human Rights Council Presenter, Male #1 The Syrian Revolution General Commission said 17 people were killed in various regions of Syria, most of them in Idlib and the countryside of Damascus. Shelling continued in parts of Idlib, Homs, Deir az-Zour, Daraa, Hama, and the countryside of Damascus. Activists said the towns of Khan as-Subul, Sarja, and Abu Samis have been shelled since dawn, leading to casualties. Reporter, Male #2 Emad Sara, director of the news channel Al-Ekhbariya, denounced the attack on the channel this morning. He said the opposition has no desire to convey the opinions of others. Guest, Male #2 (Emad Sara, Director of News Channel Al-Ekhbariya) Three of our journalists were martyred, and of course, their only crime was conveying words; words that you all know well, words of truth, words that express the other point of view. They conveyed the message of their freedoms in their own way. As such, they were targeted. Presenter, Male #1 Human rights investigators in the United Nations released a report today that says the violence in Syria is spiraling out of control. According to the report, the Syrian government is using combat helicopters and artillery to shell residential neighborhoods. It points to the increasing number of sectarian attacks. The report adds that a number of Syrian regions have descended into civil war since the UN-backed ceasefire this past April. However, Karim Abu Zaid, one of the UN investigators who prepared the report, insisted that there is still ambiguity around the Houla Massacre. Reporter, Male #3 The threat of a civil war between numerous opponents is looming over all of Syria. UN investigators submitted a report to the Human Rights Council, warning that vast parts of the country are on the brink of war. Guest, Female #1 (Navi Pillay, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights) We are gravely concerned by the latest reports of an upsurge in violence, and the growing military operations by government forces and armed opposition groups. Innocent civilians are caught in the line of fire. The international observers are subject to serious dangers as well. Reporter, Male #3 The UN Human Rights Council listened to the testimonies of the investigators, whose delegation visited Syria, documented the events there with images and videos, and conducted live interviews. The Houla Massacre, where an entire family was killed, and the world's horrified reaction to it, were important parts of the report. Guest, Male #4 (Paulo Sergio Pinheiro) The manner in which these killings took place resembles those previously and repeatedly documented to have been committed by the government. While the commission cannot rule out the possibility that the opposition fighters are responsible for the killings, it does not believe that is likely. Reporter, Male #3 Representatives of Western countries and some Arab countries held the Syrian government responsible for the continuing violence. Qatar called for referring the issue to the Security Council, in order to issue a resolution under Chapter 7 of the UN Charter. As for Washington, it adhered to condemning President Bashar al-Assad's regime. Guest, Female #2 (Eileen Chamberlain Donahoe, US Representative to the UN) The Assad regime is waging a brutal campaign against the Syrian people, characterized by aerial bombardment, mass killings, rape, and other atrocities. Reporter, Male #3 The report criticized Syria's armed opposition, and accused it of committing violations, and using children in missions that expose them to the dangers of fighting. However, the basis of the report was completely rejected by the Syrian government and its allies. The Venezuelan representative believed that certain parties which he described as imperialist are seeking to sabotage the Kofi Annan plan, and push the situation toward a Libya-style military intervention. Meanwhile, the Syrian representative reiterated his president's statement that Syria is engaged in a real war. Guest, Male #5 (Faisal Hamoui, Syrian Representative to the UN) My country's delegation will not take part in this session, in protest of the bias and politicization of the situation. Reporter, Male #3 While waiting for reaching a political settlement that all relevant parties in the Syrian issue can agree upon, the Human Rights Council's discussion remains impeded by international disagreement on how to approach the crisis. The Syrian dissidents and anti-regime protestors consider this disagreement a mere excuse for the international community's failure in dealing with the matter. Wael Hajjar, BBC. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062612?start=517 <p>Egyptian court suspends military's power to arrest civilians, Oman cracks down on dissent by prosecuting political activists, British intelligence chief says "Arab Spring" providing breeding ground for terrorists, and more.</p> Tue, 26 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062612 Syrian Civil War, Egypt, Syria, Human rights in Egypt, Ahmed Shafiq, Syria-Turkey relations, Bahrain Uprising, Khaled al-Johani, 2011 Omani protests, Abuzed Omar Dorda Presenter, Female #1 In Syria, activists said 90 people were killed today in the gunfire of al-Assad's brigades as what was described as the fiercest clashes erupted between the regime's army and the Free Army in the suburbs of Damascus, specifically near the headquarters of the Presidential Palace tasked with protecting Damascus and its countryside. Reporter, Male #1 The heavy clashes were the most notable event of the past few hours in Syria, especially in the suburbs of Damascus, near the headquarters of the Presidential Palace tasked with protecting Damascus and its countryside. This is the first time regime forces use artillery shelling in areas close to the heart of the capital. Reporter, Male #1 The calculated crimes of al-Assad's brigades were considered a new massacre in al-Hameh, in the countryside of Damascus, that left dozens of civilians dead. Fierce battles also raged in Tal al-Shehab in Daraa between the regime's army and the Free Army, as Taybt al-Emam and Maardas in Hama witnessed arrest campaigns after a series of defections from al-Assad's army. Reporter, Male #1 As for the brutal shelling targeting dissenting Syrian towns, it continues with al-Assad's brigades pounding Kanaker, Harasta, Douma, Qatana, Darayya, and Hamriya, with heavy artillery fire. The forces targeted homes, leading to the killing of a number of people as the shabeha stormed the city of Irbil to carry out raids. Reporter, Male #1 The Assad army also continued its brutal bombing of Homs, with indiscriminate shells falling on the neighborhoods of al-Hamidiya, Jouret al-Shayyah, Talbisa, al-Rastan, and al-Qusayr. In Idlib, the neighborhoods of Saraqeb, Maarat al-Numaan, and Jabal al-Zawiya were shelled by tanks, as well as helicopters that flew overhead to find the revolutionaries' hideouts. In the countryside of Aleppo, the Free Syrian Army announced it seized the city of Daret Azza following fierce clashes with the regime's army. Reporter, Male #1 And as bloody developments continue on the ground, the opposition's supporters held mass demonstrations and funeral processions for the victims who died on Monday by the bullets of the Syrian security forces. Presenter, Male #2 In a notable development, a Free Syrian Army battalion was formed in the name of martyr Maarouf Saad in East Ghouta in Damascus. Guest, Male #3 We announce the formation of the militant martyr Maarouf Saad's battalion in East Ghouta in light of the crimes against humanity being perpetrated by the Assad regime's forces, that also rape women and kill children. So we are announcing that we will defend our dear homeland, and confront the dangers of this corrupt regime. We will retrieve our rights and will ourselves. We want dignity. So when you excel in the industry of death, we say we deserve life, and all glory to God. Long live a free Syria. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062512?start=506 BBC Arabic reports that 41 people were killed in the shelling and clashes in many Syrian regions, while shelling continued on the neighborhoods of Homs as the Free Syrian Army warned against what it referred to as a "massacre." 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 Presenter, Female #1 The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said 41 people were killed today in the shelling and clashes in many Syrian regions. The shelling continued on the neighborhoods of Homs as the Free Syrian Army warned against an attack on the city by regime soldiers, and against what it referred to as a massacre. Presenter, Female #1 For its part, the revolution's General Commission reported that the city of Talbisa in Homs province is also being heavily shelled. Meanwhile, Syrian National Council sources and Turkish media confirmed that 33 Syrian soldiers defected from the Syrian army yesterday, including a major-general and two colonels who crossed into the Turkish territory. Reporter, Male #1 Heavy artillery shelling and rockets are targeting al-Hamidiya as explosions are rocking the neighborhood, and columns of smoke were seen rising. Reporter, Male #1 Clashes also continued in al-Khalidiya, Jouret al-Chayah, Deir Ba'alba, Jawbar, and al-Sultaniya in the city of Homs. As for the countryside of Homs, the shelling of Talbisa, al-Qusayr, and al-Rastan continued, leading to casualties, according to activists who uploaded these videos online. Reporter, Male #1 Relief organizations were unable to enter Homs, which led the Free Syrian Army's high military council to warn Arab and Muslim states and international organizations that the regime is carrying out what it called a massacre in Homs. In an appeal by the National Council, it said the events in Homs constitute what it called mass annihilation,that has been ongoing for 20 days. In Deir az-Zour, clashes continued in the area of al-Jbeileh, al-Hamidiyah, al-Ardee, al-Aammal, and Sheikh Yassin as regime forces continue the operations. Reporter, Male #1 This comes as the official Syrian TV confirmed the regime is fighting what it described as armed terrorist groups that are targeting vital facilities and oil lines in that region. Reporter, Male #1 Clashes also continued in the neighborhoods of al-Hader, and Tariq Halab in Hama, leading to casualties. Civilians were also killed in Kufr Runbul and Maarat al-Numaan in the countryside of Idlib, as confrontations continued in other regions. According to opposition videos uploaded online, the authenticity of which could not be verified, a police station was attacked in al-Ghandoura in the countryside of Aleppo. Following the attack, this sergeant defected from the station, and handed himself over to members of the Free Army on camera. Al-Humaira in Douma is being shelled by Syrian regime forces trying to take control of the region. Reporter, Male #1 As for the countryside of Daraa, the village of Maarada was subjected to shelling with helicopters in the government's attempt to control the village, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Many regions continued to protest since the early morning, despite the Syrian security forces' use of force to disperse the demonstrators, even in sensitive areas, including Damascus, Hama, and al-Sahel. Also in al-Sahel, Syrian TV said what it described as a terrorist group was captured by government forces in Latakia. The group is responsible for a number of operations that targeted civilians, including children. Hayyan Yaqoob, BBC. http://news.linktv.org/videos/democracy-now-june-8-2012?start=123 Bradley Manning appears at a pretrial hearing in a military court ahead of his September trial, as a new book documents his trajectory from a difficult childhood to his current predicament. And more from the Democracy Now! interview with the filmmakers behind "Five Broken Cameras," a new documentary that tells the story of a West Bank village's resistance to the Israeli separation barrier. Plus headlines, and more.<br /> Fri, 08 Jun 2012 12:05:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/democracy-now-june-8-2012 Bradley Manning, WikiLeaks, Whistleblower, United States v. Bradley Manning, United States, Court-martial, Trial, Military justice, 2012 al-Qubair massacre, Bil'in The crisis in Syria is intensifying following a massacre of Sunni villagers in Hama province. Witnesses and activists say government-backed forces killed up to 86 people in the village of Kubair, around half of them women and children. Most of the victims were burned in their own homes, with many bodies showing signs of grizzly murders. The massacre reportedly came after dozens of Syrian troops and militia members surrounded the village from all directions. On Thursday, Syrian troops blocked U.N. monitors from reaching the village, and some observers came under fire as they tried to approach. The attack in Hama came less than two weeks after pro-government forces killed more than 100 civilians in the village of Houla. The Syrian government has denied responsibility for both atrocities, blaming rebel "terrorists." Annan: Ceasefire in Tatters, Assad Primarily Responsible At the United Nations, international envoy Kofi Annan acknowledged his ceasefire plan has failed and said responsibility first rests with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Kofi Annan: "Today, despite the acceptance of the six-point plan and the deployment of a courageous mission of United Nations observers to Syria, I must be frank and confirm that the plan is not being implemented. Clearly, all parties must cease violence, but equally clearly, the first responsibility lies with the government. Since then, shelling of cities has intensified. Government-backed militia seem to have free reign with appalling consequences." Also in his remarks, Annan renewed his warning that Syria may already be in the midst of a catastrophic civil war. Kofi Annan: "Given the level of violence and the actors on the ground, you could say we are drifting, if we are not already, in a sort of a civil war. All efforts are being made to ensure that if it were to become a full-blown civil war, it doesn't spread to the neighbors." Ban Condemns "Unspeakable Barbarity" in Syria Massacre Appearing with Kofi Annan, U.N. Security-General Ban Ki-moon condemned the massacre in Hama. Ban Ki-moon: "Any regime or leader that tolerates such killing of innocents has lost its fundamental humanity. Today's news reports of another massacre in al-Kubeir and Kafr Zeta are shocking and sickening — a village apparently surrounded by Syrian forces, the bodies of innocent civilians lying there. They were shot, some allegedly burned or slashed with knives. We condemn this unspeakable barbarity and renew our determination to bring those responsible to account." Russia Calls for Iran Role in Talks, Rejects Intervention Members of the U.N. Security Council remain at an impasse over an international response to Syria's turmoil. Kofi Annan has proposed establishing a new contact group involving the United States, Russia and Iran, but the United States has refused to accept Iran's involvement. Russia and China continue to oppose proposals for sanctions against Syria and the U.S.-led calls for Assad to step down. At the United Nations, Russia envoy Vitaly Churkin said Council members have ignored the role of Syria's armed rebels in the ongoing violence and called for Iran's involvement in any future talks. Vitaly Churkin: "The truth of the matter, as you know, is that armed opposition groups do not only — do not only fail to comply to the Kofi Annan plan, but they declare that it is their intention not to do so, which, to us, is a very dangerous development, a very counterproductive development. We hear complaints about Iran, so the way to deal with that is to involve Iran in discussions and make sure that their activities are in sync with the activities of the rest of us who want to have this matter finally settled peacefully." Earlier in the day, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov vowed to oppose any Security Council measure authorizing military intervention, saying: "There will not be a Security Council mandate for outside intervention, I guarantee you that." Clinton: Assad "Has Doubled Down on Brutality" Speaking during a visit to Turkey, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton renewed the Obama administration's call for the immediate departure of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Hillary Clinton: "Assad has doubled down on his brutality and duplicity, and Syria will not, cannot be peaceful, stable or certainly democratic until Assad goes. So even as we intensify the sanctions pressure, because as we were meeting in Istanbul, the sanctions working committee of the Friends of the Syrian People was meeting in Washington, the time has come for the international community to unite around a plan for a post-Assad Syria." http://news.linktv.org/videos/un-warns-syria-is-headed-for-all-out-civil-war?start=0 The United Nations says there has been a dangerous escalation of violence in Syria and warned the country is on the path to a civil war. "The trail of blood leads back to those responsible," said UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. Fri, 08 Jun 2012 08:52:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/un-warns-syria-is-headed-for-all-out-civil-war 2012 al-Qubair massacre, al-Qubair, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Kofi Annan, Ban Ki-moon, Bashar al-Assad, Hama Governorate, Civil war, Houla massacre The United Nations says there has been a dangerous escalation of violence in Syria and warned the country is on the path to a civil war. Comments made yesterday showed a marked change in tone, clearly aimed at building pressure on the Assad government. "The trail of blood leads back to those responsible," said UN Secretary-General Ban-ki Moon. Meanwhile Kofi Annan admitted his peace plan is not working. "If things do not change, the future is likely to be one of brutal repression, massacres, sectarian violence, and even all-out civil war," he said. http://news.linktv.org/videos/democracy-now-june-7-2012?start=134 Dozens of New York lawmakers and several advocacy groups are convening on Capitol Hill today to call on the Justice Department to investigate the NYPD's controversial "stop-and-frisk" policies. Eight American Muslims from New Jersey have filed a federal lawsuit calling on the NYPD to stop its intelligence-gathering program that targets Muslim and Arab communities. And we discuss the award-winning new documentary, "Five Broken Cameras," which tells the story of a Palestinian farmer who got a video camera to record his son's childhood, but ended up documenting the growth of the resistance movement to the Israeli separation wall in the West Bank village of Bil'in. Plus headlines, and more. Thu, 07 Jun 2012 10:43:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/democracy-now-june-7-2012 NYPD, New York City stop-and-frisk program, New York City, Michael Bloomberg, US Department of Justice, African American, Hispanic and Latino Americans, Bil'in, Syria, United States WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT. Pro-government forces in Syria are being accused of committing a new massacre with reports of more than 86 dead in Hama province. Hama residents say Syrian forces shelled a village before pro-government militants entered and killed dozens of civilians. The alleged attack comes less than two weeks after more than 100 civilians were reportedly killed in the village of Houla. The Syrian government has denied the latest allegations, and U.N. monitors say they are attempting to verify the death toll. The U.N. Security Council is due to hold a session on Syria later today. http://news.linktv.org/videos/syria-un-observers-blocked-from-visiting-site-of-new-massacre?start=0 Syria's opposition is blaming the government for another alleged massacre, which reportedly left scores of people dead in Hama province. More than 80 people were killed on Wednesday in the village of Mazraat al-Qabeer, actvists said. Thu, 07 Jun 2012 09:10:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/syria-un-observers-blocked-from-visiting-site-of-new-massacre 2012 al-Qubair massacre, Syrian Civil War, Syria, al-Qubair, Hama Governorate, Robert Mood, United Nations, UN Security Council, Kofi Annan peace plan for Syria, Kofi Annan Syria's opposition is blaming the government for another alleged massacre, which reportedly left scores of people dead in Hama province. More than 80 people were killed on Wednesday in the village of Mazraat al-Qabeer, actvists said. UN observers trying to access the site say they are being blocked by the Syrian army. It all comes as United Nations envoy Kofi Annan prepares to address the UN Security Council to try to salvage his Syrian peace plan. Kristen Saloomey reports from the UN headquarters in New York and Rula Amin follows developments from Beirut in Lebanon. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-060712?start=35 WARNING: Graphic Content. The Syrian Network for Human Rights said 34 civilians were killed in Syria today. This comes after a horrific massacre in the countryside of Hama left 140 dead, most of them women and children, Future TV reports. Thu, 07 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-060712 South Sudan, Taliban, Palestinians, Israel, Syrian Civil War, Palestinian prisoners in Israel, Illegal immigration from Africa to Israel, Israeli settlement, National Transitional Council, Quetta Presenter, Male #1 The Syrian Network for Human Rights said 34 civilians were killed in Syria today. This comes after a horrific massacre took place in the countryside of Hama that left 140 people dead, most of them women and children. Guest, Male #2 An entire family was killed; this is a child, Murhaf, and his sister Shaima, and this is their brother Mohamed. Reporter, Male #3 Syrian dissidents are asking: What kind of beast is capable of slaughtering children and women in cold blood? Seventy-eight people, including around 20 children and 25 women, were killed by Assad's brigades and shabeha. They were either slaughtered, or burned, or shot in the village of al-Qubair in the countryside of Hama. It is said the population of this village does not exceed 100. Reporter, Male #3 The opposition Syrian National Council called for two days of public mourning. Syrian cities and towns responded to the call. The Council requested the Free Syrian Army to launch military attacks against regime forces, in order to break the siege on the encircled regions and protect Syrian civilians, as a response to the new massacre in al-Qubair in the countryside of Hama. Reporter, Male #3 Meanwhile, to cover up the massacre, Syrian security forces barred the UN observers from entering the village of al-Qubair. The head of the observers' delegation, Robert Mood, said he received information indicating the observers' safety would be at risk if they enter the village. Missiles and rockets fell on the city of al-Haffa in the countryside of Hama, coinciding with the arrival of military reinforcements. Reporter, Male #3 In Homs, Assad's brigades continued their indiscriminate and heavy shelling on the neighborhoods of the city, leading to casualties. These images are from Talbisa. Reporter, Male #3 In Idlib, helicopters partook in the shelling of Jisr Shughur, and heavy machine guns were indiscriminately used on the residents' houses. In Daraa, fierce clashes erupted between Assad's brigades and army defectors, killing a number of soldiers from both sides. Reporter, Male #3 In addition, more deaths were reported in Aleppo, which was heavily shelled this morning by regime forces; a number of people were killed and wounded. Meanwhile, young people in Damascus shut down some roads with burning tires and other material, especially near the building of the state-run news agency SANA. This comes within the framework of a campaign called "Boiling Damascus". In condemnation of the regime's massacres against civilians, Syria's cities and towns rose up, and residents took to the streets in massive demonstrations demanding that Assad step down. 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-053012?start=1175 Head of the UN observers' team in Syria, Robert Mood, said he was deeply disturbed by the discovery of 13 dead bodies with their hands tied in Deir az-Zour, while massive demonstrations broke out across Syria after the Houla massacre, reports Future TV. Wed, 30 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-053012 Iran, Israel, Iran-Israel relations, Sudan, Syria, Ahmed Shafiq, 2012 South Sudan–Sudan border conflict, Zainab Alkhawaja, Afghanistan War, Iran-Saudi Arabia relations Presenter, Female #1 The UN Security Council began a closed-door session to discuss two reports by the international observers' delegation in Syria. The UN-Arab League envoy to Syria assured the Security Council that conducting direct talks between the Syrian government and the opposition is currently impossible. The envoy indicated that the opposition is no longer fearful, and it is unlikely that the uprising will end without a political solution. German ambassador to the UN, Peter Wittig, who presided over the session, expressed his hope that the Houla massacre would prompt some of the member countries to open their eyes. Presenter, Male #1 The international pressure on al-Assad's regime did not reduce the impact of the vicious military operations conducted by his brigades. Reporter, Male #2 This is a sample of the brutal and severe killing of the Syrian people by al-Assad's brigades and gangs. The entire world has not deterred the Syrian regime, which has become increasingly more insurgent and brutal, from continuously and openly shelling Syrian cities and towns with light and heavy weaponry. Reporter, Male #2 Several cities in Old Homs and al-Rastan City in Homs Province have been subject to artillery shelling, which led to the destruction of dozens of homes, in light of the deployment of military reinforcements to the al-Nozha neighborhood. According to activists, dozens of bodies arrived to the field hospital in al-Qusayr in Homs, as a result of the helicopter shelling of residential areas. Meanwhile, a leaked video from a member of the regime's shabeha showed the discovery of mass graves in Homs. In Damascus, fierce clashes erupted between regime forces and members of the Free Syrian Army in the Mashdal area in the suburb of Sayyida Zeinab. Reporter, Male #2 It is reported that continuous explosions by artillery rockets were heard east of the capital, as well as in the eastern edge of the countryside of Damascus. Violent shelling was also carried out on Duma City in the countryside of Damascus, where civilian houses were targeted by al-Assad's brigades. Reporter, Male #2 Meanwhile, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that two defected military members were killed in violent clashes that broke out between regime forces and the Free Army in the town of Kfar Zeeta in Hama, which is enduring fierce artillery and mortar shelling. Reporter, Male #2 Al-Assad's brigades continued their military operation, ignoring the presence of UN observers. They launched strikes with helicopters on the villages of Batbo and al-Jina, and Atarib Town in Aleppo Province. Meanwhile, clashes between the revolutionaries and regime forces intensified after the military operation escalated in Aleppo Province. Fighting was documented in al-Maghara, as well as defections in Idlib City and the village of Heesh. Activists uploaded videos online showing al-Assad's shabeha destroying houses of displaced residents. Reporter, Male #2 It seems that the massacres committed by al-Assad's regime are being unveiled daily in front of the international observers' delegation. Head of the UN observers' team, Robert Mood, said he was deeply disturbed by the discovery of 13 dead bodies with their hands tied in Deir az-Zour. In light of these dramatic developments on the ground, massive demonstrations broke out across Syria. Idlib City saw enormous marches condemning the Houla massacre, and demanding the execution of President Assad. Assad's brigades also shelled al-Hamidiya neighborhood of Homs to prevent the residents from holding a funeral for film director Bassel Shehadeh, who was killed by the gunfire of the regime's forces. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052512?start=546 <p>Brotherhood candidate claims early lead as protestors rally against Mubarak-era candidates, Lebanese hostages released in Syria as Annan plans to meet with al-Assad officials, Iran's nuclear talks moved to Moscow after reaching a stalemate, and more.</p> Fri, 25 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052512 Egyptian presidential election, 2012, Israel, Iran, Nuclear program of Iran, Syrian Civil War, Muslim Brotherhood, Hassan Nasrallah, Ahmed Shafiq, Lebanon, P5+1 Presenter, Male #1 The Syrian Revolution General Commission said that forces loyal to the Syrian government killed 19 people, including six farmers in a town in the countryside of Hama. This comes as opposition activists report that demonstrations broke out across Syria on Friday that the opposition named "We will soon meet in Damascus." Reporter, Male #2 The demonstrations that began early in the morning before Friday prayers seemed as if they were in a race with Syrian security forces, who surround the mosques every Friday in anticipation of demonstrations. Reporter, Male #2 Today's protests, which broke out in areas such as Idlib, Aleppo, Dara'a, and Homs, were named by the opposition "The Friday of 'We will soon meet in Damascus'," in an attempt to mobilize the revolutionary movement against the Syrian regime in the capital and its surroundings. Reporter, Male #2 Coinciding with these demonstrations is the continuous shelling of Homs City, according to activists. They also confirmed gunfire, as well as raids in the countryside of Damascus, the two cities of Aleppo and Hama, and Dara'a Province. Since this morning, security forces have been here, surrounding al-Omari Mosque in Dara'a, where the peaceful Syrian uprising was first sparked. Reporter, Male #2 The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said a civilian was killed by indiscriminate gunfire around midnight in the neighborhood of al-Sabounia in Hama City. Four were killed in armed clashes in the countryside of Hama. Activists reported that Syrian security forces stormed neighborhoods such as al-Qaboun and Duma in Damascus and its countryside. Heavy, indiscriminate gunfire was opened on protestors. Hayyan Yaqoob, BBC. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052412?start=469 Thirty-three people were killed across Syria, as new members of the Syrian People's Assembly were sworn in during the first parliamentary session, reports Future TV. Mohamed Jihad al-Lahham was elected speaker with 225 out of 250 votes. Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052412 Syria, Egyptian presidential election, 2012, Arab world, Free Syrian Army, Lebanon, Israel, Egyptians, Cairo, UN Security Council, Eli Yishai Presenter, Female #1 According to the Syrian Coordination Committee, thirty-three people were killed today by gunfire of al-Assad's brigades. Most of the victims were killed in heavy shelling that targeted the town of Ihsin in Idlib's Jabal al-Zawiyah region, and the city of al-Rastan in Homs Province. Reporter, Male #1 Syrians woke up to yet another day of indiscriminate artillery shelling targeting several cities. Homs' neighborhoods endured heavy shelling, causing massive property damage to residents' homes, amid a sharp food shortage due to the siege, and vicious attacks launched by the regime's brigades on rebel areas. Reporter, Male #1 The Local Coordination Committees announced that dozens of people were killed or injured by gunfire of al-Assad's forces. Among the dead were four victims who were killed in a shelling by the regime's army in the town of Ihsin in Idlib's Jabal al-Zawiyah region. In addition, al-Assad's brigades resumed their indiscriminate shelling of residential neighborhoods in Deir az-Zour's city of Muhsin. The brigades also initiated heavy shelling targeting the city of al-Harak in Dara'a Province, where dozens of soldiers have reportedly defected from the regime's army. Reporter, Male #1 In Damascus, a series of powerful explosions rocked the capital's neighborhoods, amid heavy gunfire, especially in al-Gabun neighborhood. In the countryside of Damascus, the Free Syrian Army confirmed the defection of more than 200 soldiers, including three officers, in the area of al-Qataifa near al-Qalamun. In addition, al-Assad's shabeha carried out a widescale arrest campaign in the area of Harasta. Dozens of university students were arrested in the raids. Reporter, Male #1 Meanwhile, UN observers continue to tour heated areas across Syria. Several observers visited the city of Aleppo, which has been witnessing heavy shelling over the past few days. On the other hand, the Syrian al-Thawra Daily, which is loyal to the regime, accused the UN observer team and those behind them of seeking to implement "secret agendas" against the regime. Reporter, Male #1 In the countryside of Aleppo, the sound of random fire and heavy artillery shelling echoed across the area of al-Atareb. Incoming reports also confirmed the arrest of one the youth in the city of Tal-Rifa'at. In Hama, the Syrian Revolution General Commission confirmed the murder of a mother and her five children. The Commission added that the victims were slaughtered by members of al-Assad's shabeha. Guest, Male #2 Al-Assad's gangs have slaughtered a mother and her five children. Reporter, Male #1 The unified leadership of the Syrian Free Army issued a statement hailing the formation of a military council affiliated with the Free Army in al-Suwaida'a. Guest, Male #3 The formation of a military council in al-Suwaida'a Province is a step forward on the national path, similar to the one taken during the first Syrian revolution, which was led by Sultan Basha al-Atrash. Reporter, Male #1 In Dara'a, the Syrian army and security forces stormed the city of Shiekh Maskeen, backed by tanks and armored vehicles. The invading forces carried out widescale raids and arrests among the civilians. They also assaulted the residents, as well as vandalized and looted their homes. Reporter, Male #1 On the eve of a Friday dubbed "Damascus, we are coming soon," thousands of Syrians took to the streets across various cities in massive demonstrations, demanding the downfall of the regime and al-Assad's departure. Amid these developments, new members of the Syrian People's Assembly were sworn in during the first parliamentary session. Mohamed Jihad al-Lahham was elected as the speaker of the Syrian parliament with a majority of 225 out of 250 votes. Presenter, Male #4 In the Turkish city of Istanbul, the Syrian National Council's Executive Bureau said in a statement that it has accepted the resignation of its president, Burhan Ghalioun. The council asked Ghalioun to remain in his position until a new president is elected at the General Assembly meeting scheduled for June 9th. Hours after his resignation, Ghalioun admitted that the council has failed the Syrian people, who have sacrificed so much. He added that his resignation was due to internal division between the Islamists and the secularists. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052312?start=1160 <p>Millions of Egyptians vote in historic presidential election, Iran and world powers offer proposals at nuclear talks in Baghdad, Friends of Yemen meet in Riyadh as relief agencies warn of a catastrophic food shortage, and more.</p> Wed, 23 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052312 Nuclear program of Iran, Israel, Iran, Saeed Jalili, P5+1, Baghdad, Yemen, Economy of Yemen, Egyptian presidential election, 2012, Politics of Israel Presenter, Male #1 The Syrian Revolution General Commission said 19 people died today under the gunfire of the army and security forces, including five soldiers who were killed when they attempted to defect from the army in the countryside of Damascus. The others were killed in Homs, Daraa, Aleppo, Idlib, and Deir az-Zour. The city of al-Rastan was shelled relentlessly by government forces, who attempted to storm the city again. In addition, the neighborhoods of Homs and Hama were shelled as well. The General Commission said that two towns, Kafr Nubul and Kafrouma in Idlib, were bombarded by warplanes and heavy machine guns. Reporter, Male #2 Al-Rastan is being shelled once again. According to activists, one rocket falls every minute. Opposition figures say a group of regime forces attempted once more to infiltrate the city, where a large number of defectors from the army are entrenched, including high-ranking officials. People were wounded, and houses collapsed under the shelling, amid desperate calls for help. This is the scene that repeats itself day after day. In the al-Hamidiya neighborhood of Homs, just as in the al-Khalidiya neighborhood, shelling has become a daily meal for the residents of the virtually quarantined city. Most of the city's neighborhoods have been damaged, as well as towns in its countryside, such as Qalat al-Hisn, al-Hola, and al-Qasir. Here, people bid farewell to one of the victims, just moments before his burial. Reporter, Male #2 Also in Homs, state TV said that 11 people, who were tricked and never had any blood on their hands, turned themselves in to what it referred to as "specialized institutions." State media added that their status has been restored after they promised not to return to taking up arms and conducting subversive activities. According to the opposition, two neighborhoods of Hama were shelled, al-Qusur and Janoub al-Malaab, which are beset with tanks that bar residents from entering or exiting. Reporter, Male #2 In Idlib, north of Hama, the town of Kafrouma continued to be shelled by warplanes for the second consecutive day. In addition, the village of al-Kenda, near Jisr Shughour, was stormed. During every shelling and storming operation, more people were killed. Reporter, Male #2 In Dara'a, shelling continued in the al-Laja area, and the town of Kharbat Ghazala came under siege. An arrest campaign was carried out in the town of Sheikh Miskin, while houses were burned and tanks were deployed at the entrance of al-Harak Town. Meanwhile, the UN observers' delegation visited Dael Town, where a funeral was held for a number of victims who were killed yesterday. Reporter, Male #2 As for Deir az-Zour, a campaign of raids and arrests in al-Quriya City coincided with student demonstrations in the city's Science Institute. The student movement has become apparent in more than one Syrian university in the past several weeks, from Aleppo to Damascus and ar-Raqqah. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-050312?start=235 The Syrian Revolution's General Commission said at least four people were killed when security forces stormed student dormitories at Aleppo University, reports BBC Arabic. The university's president announced classes will be suspended until May 13th. Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-050312 Syrian Civil War, Politics of Israel, Iraq, Bashar al-Assad, Politics of Iran, Mauritania, Abbasiyah, Bahrain Uprising, Tariq al-Hashemi, Mohammad-Reza Rahimi Presenter, Male #1 The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the operations by Syrian army and security forces in Homs, Damascus, Hama, Idlib, Daraa, and Deir az-Zour led to the killing of 19 people today. The Syrian Revolution's General Commission said at least four people were killed when security forces stormed student dormitories at Aleppo University. The university's president announced classes will be suspended until May 13th. Reporter, Male #2 Syrian opposition activists say a number of students at Aleppo University were killed by the gunfire of Syrian security forces when they stormed the campus. Unverified videos uploaded online showed the scale of the damage at the campus of the university. Guest, Male #3 Four students were killed, and many others were injured. The security forces and the shabeha stormed the student dorms and arrested a large number of them. Reporter, Male #2 The Syrian opposition's National Council called on UN observers in Syria, whose number has not exceeded 30 so far, to head to Aleppo immediately. Following these incidents, demonstrations broke out in and around the faculties of Aleppo University in solidarity with the targeted students. Other demonstrations erupted in various areas as well. Reporter, Male #2 Daily protests in Syria have become one of the two facets of the crisis. On one hand, the popular mobilization's activists insist on continuing the movement despite the pressure they face from the army and security forces. They say the forces have not withdrawn their military vehicles from the cities and villages, as indicated in these images uploaded online by activists. On the other hand, Syrian state media asserts it is confronting what it refers to as terrorist groups that are targeting both military members and civilians. The Syrian government views what it calls "the media war" as especially important, after President Bashar al-Assad announced that he had won the battle on the ground and is now anticipating to win it in the air. Reporter, Male #2 So the presence of foreign media in Syria is limited to those who were given entry permits. They can only work with a permit that limits their movement, and if they violate any of its stipulations, their cameras will be confiscated as experienced by the crew of the British network Sky News in Damascus two days ago. As the Syrian government is preparing to organize elections that are boycotted by the Syrian National Council and the National Coordination Committee, their opponents are also active in a counter media campaign. Reporter, Male #2 As for the killing and violence, they continue with each side holding the other responsible. The Syrian opposition responds to the government with the support of reports by international human rights organizations. They say the army and security forces are continuing their operations in many areas, including Daraa, Idlib, Deir az-Zour, Hama, and Homs. Images from the neighborhood of al-Bayada showed the impact of the shelling dissidents say the Syrian government is responsible for. Wael Hajjar, BBC. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-042412?start=415 Despite the presence of UN observers in Syrian cities, Syrian forces continued their mobilization on various fronts, Dubai TV reports. More than 60 people were killed in Monday's violence, most in Hama. Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-042412 Amnesty International, Cairo, Egypt, Israel, Syria, Salva Kiir Mayardit, 2012 South Sudan–Sudan border conflict, Islam in Europe, Syrian Civil War, Israeli settlement Presenter, Male #1 In between the voices of demonstrators and the daily tours of UN observers in Syria, Damascus woke up this morning to the sound of an explosion that rocked al-Marjeh district, inflicting casualties. Despite the presence of UN observers in the cities, Syrian forces continue their mobilization on various fronts. More than 60 people were killed in yesterday's violence. Most of the victims were killed in Hama. Today, the UN observers resumed their mission by touring a number of areas in the countryside of Damascus amid scenes of destruction and the chants of demonstrators calling for the downfall of the regime. Meanwhile, the UN will begin the deployment of 300 ceasefire observers to Syria next week. Ahmed Qassem has the details. Reporter, Male #2 Another day for the UN mission started in Syria. UN observers got in their cars and headed to the designated monitoring sites as displayed on their map. Today, they are scheduled to visit several areas, including cities in the countryside of Damascus. They are documenting what they observe on the ground, but without revealing many details. Meanwhile, activists are accusing the Syrian forces of "toying" with the UN observers by targeting the inspected areas after the observers leave. Reporter, Male #2 This is exactly what happened in Hama two days ago. The regime's forces launched a fierce attack on Hama immediately after the UN delegation left the city following a tour of its neighborhoods. Fifty people were killed in the neighborhood of Arbaeen, and their names were added to the list of the Syrian Revolution's victims. The situation was not much different in Homs, where two UN observers are residing, amid fears of violence spreading to most of the city's neighborhoods and other towns in Homs' countryside. Security forces stormed the cities of Homs, Daraa, Idlib, Deir az-Zour, and the countryside of Damascus as demonstrators took to the squares and streets chanting anti-regime slogans. Reporter, Male #2 In Binish, the residents continued to hold nighttime demonstrations after the army withdrew its tanks and its soldiers to nearby forests. Students at the University of Aleppo continued their mobilization during the day, under the iron fist of armed regime forces that are easily provoked by the voices of protestors. Presenter, Male #1 Today, the UN Security Council is expected to discuss the UN-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan's third report on the Syrian crisis. Meanwhile, the Syrian issue dominated a UN Security Council special debate on the Middle East. Several countries called for holding the Syrian regime accountable for not complying with the ceasefire agreement, and for conducting informal withdrawals from the cities. According to sources close to Annan, Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Moualem sent a letter to the UN-Arab envoy confirming that the army withdrew from the cities and population centers. Al-Moualem added that maintaining law and order will be assigned to police and peacekeeping forces. The UN further said it's carefully reviewing and verifying all information with the observers and other sources. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-033012?start=1137 <p>Palestinians confront Israeli occupation on Land Day, Pakistani lawmakers debate reopening NATO supply route, Egypt's Ganzouri government to face vote of no-confidence, and more.</p> Fri, 30 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-033012 Syrian Civil War, Syria, Nuclear program of Iran, Land Day, Israel, Palestinians, Bahrain Uprising, Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Iran, Bahrain Presenter, Male #1 Deaths and injuries were reported following anti-regime protests on the Friday of "the Arabs and Muslims let us down" as clashes broke out in a number of areas in Syria. Meanwhile, UN-Arab League Envoy Kofi Annan asked Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to immediately implement his plan. Reporter, Female #1 Muslims and Arabs have let us down, but God is with us, and our resolve will bring victory. This was the slogan of this Friday's protests in Syria. Some were killed and injured, according to opposition sources. Participants in the protests chanted for the downfall of the regime, and condemned the initiative of the Arab summit in Baghdad. A demonstration was held in the Jubar neighborhood of Damascus. Security forces attempted to disperse the protest. Regime forces also dispersed demonstrations in al-Qadam neighborhood, as activists confirmed security forces clashed with protestors in the neighborhoods of al-Qadam and al-Maydan in the center of the capital. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and opposition websites, protests were held in some areas, while other regions witnessed fierce clashes between regime forces and members of the Free Syrian Army. Most notable clashes broke out in the towns of Duma, Harasta, Arbaeen, and al-Ghouta in the countryside of Damascus. Activists asserted a military checkpoint in central Arbaeen city was targeted, killing one soldier from the regime's forces and damaging a heavy military vehicle. Reporter, Female #1 Meanwhile, the Local Coordination Committees reported violent clashes this morning in Gharb al-Mashtal district of Hama between the regime's army and the Free Syrian Army, as well as clashes in the Ghassan Abboud area of Deir az-Zour. In Damascus, the observatory confirmed that security and army forces stormed the neighborhood of Barza and carried out a raid campaign on houses surrounding the square, where protests are organized. The observatory reported the Syrian forces began a military campaign in the town of Jarjanaz in the countryside of Maarat al-Numaan in Idlib province. Meanwhile, opposition websites uploaded images asserting violent shelling is targeting the neighborhoods of Homs city, specifically Bostan al-Diwan, al-Hamidiya, al-Safsafa, Deir Ba'alaba, and Bab Tadmur. Politically, a spokesman for the international envoy said Syrian President Bashar al-Assad should implement Annan's plan immediately. He said military operations continue on the ground, and that is causing great concern. He indicated the violations and killings should stop immediately. Reporter, Female #1 This comes as the United States imposed sanctions on Syrian Defense Minister Dawoud Rajiha, and two senior officers in the Syrian army, Munir Adanov and Zuhayr Shalish. The sanctions include freezing their assets and barring Americans from doing business with them. At the same time, representatives of a number of countries are meeting on Sunday in Turkey for the "Friends of Syria" conference to increase the pressure on Damascus and push it to adhere to Annan's plan to end the violence. It is expected for 17 countries to participate, including the US, but excluding China and Russia, to determine measures that guarantee the regime will not withdraw from its commitment to the plan President al-Assad agreed to.