http://news.linktv.org Link TV News Videos (Filtered by topics: Military of Syria) en-us Sun, 19 May 2013 19:59:00 -0700 Copyright 2011 Link Media, Inc. http://news.linktv.org/videos/syria-hezbollah-bombard-key-rebel-town?start=0 Syrian government troops have launched a major offensive to retake the strategically important rebel stronghold of Qusayr near Lebanon, and killed dozens, mostly civilians trapped by the fighting. Syrian forces are reportedly being supported by Hezbollah militants, and Israeli officials are vowing to take action. Some 60 percent of Qusayr is now controlled by Syrian troops, an activist told the <em>New York Times.</em> Sun, 19 May 2013 19:59:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/syria-hezbollah-bombard-key-rebel-town Al-Qusayr, Syrian Civil War, Hezbollah, Military of Syria, Politics of Israel, Syrian army, Lebanon, Syria, Free Syrian Army, Euronews Syrian government troops have launched a major offensive to retake the strategically important rebel stronghold of Qusayr near Lebanon, and killed dozens, mostly civilians trapped by the fighting. Syrian forces are reportedly being supported by Hezbollah militants, and Israeli officials are vowing to take action. Some 60 percent of Qusayr is now controlled by Syrian troops, an activist told the New York Times. http://news.linktv.org/videos/syria-warns-of-all-options-after-new-israel-airstrikes?start=0 Israeli warplanes have carried out a second set of air strikes against military targets in Syria, and Syrian officials are warning that the attack "opened the door to all possibilities" of retaliation. Several critical military facilities were struck, and dozens of troops stationed near the presidential palace were killed, a Syrian military official told the <em>New York Times. </em>Israel refused to comment on the attack, the second in three days. Sun, 05 May 2013 22:11:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/syria-warns-of-all-options-after-new-israel-airstrikes Air strike, Military of Syria, Israel, Syria, Syrian Civil War, The New York Times, Associated Press Israeli warplanes have carried out a second set of strikes against military targets in Syria, and Syrian officials are warning that the attack "opened the door to all possibilities" of retaliation. Several critical military facilities were struck, and dozens of troops stationed near the presidential palace were killed, a Syrian military official told the New York Times. Israel refused to comment on the attack, the second in three days. http://news.linktv.org/videos/80-killed-in-new-syrian-massacre?start=0 At least 80 people, including several women and children, have been cut down by Syrian army fire in the town of Jdeydet al-Fadel in the suburbs of Damascus, accoring to oppostion activists.&nbsp;The army reportedly stormed the town after five days of heavy fighting. The toll could be as high as 250, reports the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The deaths came as Secretary of State John Kerry promised the US would double its "non-lethal aid" to the opposition. Sun, 21 Apr 2013 20:21:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/80-killed-in-new-syrian-massacre Syrian army, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Military of Syria, Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, Damascus, United Kingdom, Al Jazeera English At least 80 people, including several women and children, have been cut down by Syrian army fire in the town of Jdeydet al-Fadel in the suburbs of Damascus, accoring to oppostion activists. The army reportedly stormed the town after five days of heavy fighting. The toll could be as high as 250, reports the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The deaths came as Secretary of State John Kerry promised the US would double its "non-lethal aid" to the opposition. http://news.linktv.org/videos/government-air-strikes-kill-more-civilians-across-syria?start=0 There have been fresh reports of more civilian casualties in Syria - opposition activists claim government air strikes killed 16 people on Sunday in the north east of the country. These unverified images are said to show Saturday's air attack in Idlib province in which a UK based Syrian Human rights agency claimed at least 18 civilians died. While both sides have been accused of war crimes the agency has accused Syrian forces of deliberately targeting civilians. Government and rebel forces are blaming each other for the destruction of a seventh century mosque. Amateur video shows the Omari mosque in Deraa being destroyed after a sustained attack. The building carries special symbolism for the Syrian opposition - in the early says of the uprising it had served as a meeting point and makeshift clinic. Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/government-air-strikes-kill-more-civilians-across-syria Syrian Civil War, Syria, Civilian casualties, Air strike, Idlib Governorate, Military of Syria, Daraa, War Crime, Mosque, Euronews There have been fresh reports of more civilian casualties in Syria. Opposition activists claim government air strikes killed 16 people on Sunday in the north east of the country. These unverified images are said to show Saturday's air attack in Idlib province in which a UK-based Syrian human rights group claimed at least 18 civilians died. While both sides have been accused of war crimes, the agency has accused Syrian forces of deliberately targeting civilians. Government and rebel forces are blaming each other for the destruction of a seventh-century mosque. Amateur video shows the Omari mosque in Deraa being destroyed after a sustained attack. The building carries special symbolism for the Syrian opposition -- in the early says of the uprising it had served as a meeting point and makeshift clinic. http://news.linktv.org/videos/un-blames-assad-regime-for-most-syria-massacres?start=0 UN investigators examining 20 alleged massacres in Syria say regime forces carried out six of the eight confirmed atrocities. Meanwhile, al-Nusra Front is ‪imposing harsh, Taliban-style regulations‬ in areas under its control, mostly in Deir Ez-Zour and its surroundings.&nbsp; New TV reports on these developments. <br /> Wed, 13 Mar 2013 13:19:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/un-blames-assad-regime-for-most-syria-massacres Syrian Civil War, Al-Nusra Front, Military of Syria, Sharia, Free Syrian Army, Deir az-Zour, Syria, Saudi Arabia, International Criminal Court, UN Security Council UN investigators examining 20 alleged massacres in Syria say regime forces carried out six of the eight confirmed atrocities. Meanwhile, al-Nusra Front is ‪imposing harsh, Taliban-style regulations‬ in areas under its control, mostly in Deir Ez-Zour and its surroundings. New TV reports on these developments. http://news.linktv.org/videos/rebel-gains-may-be-turning-point-in-syrian-conflict?start=0 Two Syrian military aircraft downed in two days -- seemingly by ground-to-air missiles -- changes everything, says Joshua Landis of SyriaComment.com, who believes the growing dominance of the Syrian Free Army in the north of the country may force pro-Assad troops to retreat south.<br /> Wed, 28 Nov 2012 16:20:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/rebel-gains-may-be-turning-point-in-syrian-conflict Syrian Civil War, Free Syrian Army, Syria, Syrian army, Bashar al-Assad, Joshua Landis, Surface-to-air missile, Military of Syria, Withdrawal, France 24 Two Syrian military aircraft downed in two days -- seemingly by ground-to-air missiles -- changes everything, says Joshua Landis of SyriaComment.com, who believes the growing dominance of the Syrian Free Army in the north of the country may force pro-Assad troops to retreat south. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-101712?start=923 <p>NATO's immunity at stake over bombing of civilians in Libya, Bahraini man dies after regime forces fire toxic tear gas into his home, Palestinians shut down Israeli-only road in the West Bank, and more.</p> Wed, 17 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-101712 Israel, Palestinians, Jerusalem, Israel Defense Forces, Khaled K. El-Hamedi, Bahrain Uprising, Palestinian rocket attacks on Israel, Levy Report, Egypt–Israel relations, Israeli-occupied territories Presenter, Male #1 A mortar shell fired from Syria landed in southeast Turkey, causing no injuries, as reported by the MTV TV channel quoting the local authorities. The channel added the shell fell on a bank of the Asi River in Turkey's Hatay Province. Meanwhile, confrontations remain fierce, especially in Maarat al-Numaan, as a delegation from the Vatican gets ready to visit Syria next week. Reporter, Female #1 Yet again, opposition gunmen downed a Syrian armed forces' helicopter. This time, it was near the city of Maarat al-Numaan in Idlib Province, in northwestern Syria, with the conflict reaching its peak in the village of Busaybeh. Meanwhile, the Anadolu news agency quoted the Free Syrian Army's political adviser, Bassam al-Dada, saying one of the two pilots captured by the opposition fighters after downing their fighter jet resembles Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Reporter, Female #1 For its part, official Syrian TV reported that a unit of the armed forces eliminated an armed terrorist group in the western countryside of Ma'ar Lohtat. As for Aleppo, the town of Sha'ab was shelled while clashes continued in al-Ramouseh, and near the Kowriss Military Airport in the countryside of Aleppo. In a related development, the acting president of the Kurdistan Workers' Party, Murat Karayilan, speaking to the Swiss daily Le Temps, warned Turkey from the headquarters of the party in Iraq of violent revenge on its territories if it attacks Syrian-Kurds. Reporter, Female #1 On a different note, France, through its Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius, accused the Syrian regime of using cluster bombs following his meeting with representatives of civil revolutionarily councils administering areas controlled by gunmen in northern Syria. Similar accusations were made by non-governmental organizations. These charges were categorically denied by the army's general leadership, and Syrian armed forces. As for the Syrian opposition members, after their meeting, they stressed on the need to protect these liberated border areas from air raids carried out by the Syrian regime. Guest, Male #2 (Othman Bilawi, Head of Revolutionary Council in Maarat al-Numaan) A long time ago, over a year ago when we were expecting the regime to shell the cities, we asked for a no-fly zone. Sadly, the Russian position is clear, and the Chinese position is also clear as they stand against the Syrian people. We asked, and we are still asking for a no-fly zone, but as we say, it's out of my hands. Reporter, Female #1 The American newspaper Washington Post revealed the European governments, most notably the French and British governments, that were and remain the biggest supporters of the armed groups in Syria, are now feeling great concern over the possibility of catastrophic repercussions in their countries over this support. This was made evident through the British and French authorities' arrest of extremist Islamists attempting to join the fighters in Syria. Reporter, Female #1 Also on the political front, Pope Benedict XVI decided to send a high-profile delegation on a mission to offer their views on a solution that can only be political, according to a Vatican spokesman. The spokesman indicated the delegation will bring aid collected by the bishops to the victims of the conflict. http://news.linktv.org/videos/rebel-fighters-capture-syrian-soldiers?start=0 Syrian opposition fighters have said they've captured more than 250 members of the government's armed forces in the province of Idlib. The announcement on Saturday was accompanied by an amateur video showing what the rebels claim are 256 captured Syrian soldiers who were displayed for the cameras. Al Jazeera's Stefanie Dekker reports. Sat, 13 Oct 2012 09:20:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/rebel-fighters-capture-syrian-soldiers Syria, Idlib, Syrian Civil War, Free Syrian Army, Amateur film, Politics of Syria, Syrian army, Military of Syria, Human rights in Syria, Bashar al-Assad Syrian opposition fighters have said they've captured more than 250 members of the government's armed forces in the province of Idlib. The announcement on Saturday was accompanied by an amateur video showing what the rebels claim are 256 captured Syrian soldiers who were displayed for the cameras. Al Jazeera's Stefanie Dekker reports. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-101212?start=846 <p>Anti-Morsi slogans lead to clashes between Islamists and liberals in Tahrir Square, African Union forces expand control outside of Mogadishu, Saudi Arabia ranks as world's second-worst country for women, and more.</p> Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-101212 Taliban, Israel, Islamism, Afghanistan, Tahrir Square, Women's rights in Saudi Arabia, Ghazni Province, Jalalabad Airport, Bahrain Uprising, Nobel Peace Prize Presenter, Male #1 Tensions are escalating between Ankara and Damascus. This news comes after Turkish fighter jets confronted a Syrian military helicopter that shelled the border town of Azmarin. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov dismissed reports that a Syrian plane grounded by Turkey was carrying weapons. Reporter, Female #1 The tense Turkish-Syrian relationship has escalated to a new level. Relations between Ankara and Damascus took a turn for the worst after Turkish authorities intercepted and seized weapons aboard a Syrian passenger plane from Moscow that was en route to Damascus. Reporter, Female #1 Two Turkish fighter jets that had taken off from Diyarbakir fended off a Syrian helicopter approaching the Syrian-Turkish border. A Turkish official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said that Turkey immediately sent two fighter jets to its border with Syria after a Syrian military helicopter bombed the border town of Azmarin. The town and adjacent cities have been witnessing fierce battles between fighters of the Free Syrian Army and regime forces. Reporter, Female #1 In the latest news on the Syrian plane grounded by Turkish authorities, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov confirmed that the plane was not carrying any weapons on board. This news comes amid an exchange of blame, after Damascus accused Ankara of lying. In what was attributed to a Russian arms exporting source, the Russian Kommersant newspaper reported that the plane was not carrying weapons. The source added that the plane was carrying 12 boxes of Russian radar parts for Syria's anti-missile defense system. Reporter, Female #1 Politically, the Syrian crisis was the focus of discussion between the Saudi King, Abdullah Bin Abdel Aziz, and the international envoy to Syria, Lakhdar Brahimi. The talks, which were held in the city of Jeddah, centered on ways to stop all acts of violence and bloodshed, terrorization of civilians, and violations of human rights. Reporter, Female #1 On a Friday dubbed, "The Free People of the Coast Making Victory," Syrian opposition forces intensified their attacks on regime forces' strategic hubs in the provinces of Idlib and Aleppo in the north. Nearly 14 Syrian soldiers and six opposition fighters were killed in an attack on an army checkpoint in the village of Khirba near Ma'araba in the southern province of Daraa, as confirmed by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Reporter, Female #1 Meanwhile, fierce battles are raging around the city of Maarat al-Numaan in Idlib, which fell under the control of opposition fighters a few days ago. Opposition fighters are seeking to expand their control over the entire area, and over supply routes to the city of Aleppo. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-100512?start=768 <p>Thousands of Jordanians take part in Friday protests despite king's dissolution of parliament, Israeli forces clash with worshippers at Al-Aqsa Mosque, Syrian rebels down military plane on outskirts of Damascus, and more.</p> Fri, 05 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-100512 Syrian Civil War, Syria, Nuclear program of Iran, Syria-Turkey relations, Palestinians, Benjamin Netanyahu, Politics of Turkey, Sanctions against Iran, Damascus, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Insurgents in Syria are threatening to kill 48 Iranians that they took hostage back in August. They want the Syrian administration to release their arrested militants, and stop operations against anti-government armed groups within two days. They made the threat in a statement said to have been released on Thursday. They had earlier claimed that several of the hostages were killed in a shelling attack by the Syrian military. The Iranian nationals were abducted while on a pilgrimage near the capital, Damascus. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-100412?start=35 <p>Turkish demonstrators clash with police after parliament vote to strike Syria, Libyan protestors storm National Congress over lack of representation, Somali government blames al-Shabab for "systematic" killing of journalists, and more.</p> Thu, 04 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-100412 Politics of Israel, Taliban, Afghanistan, Syrian Civil War, Tzipi Livni, Coalition government, Jordan, Child, Israel Defense Forces, Ehud Barak Presenter, Female #1 The Turkish parliament agreed to allow the government to wage a military operation outside the border if it is found necessary. Three hundred twenty representatives voted in favor of the decision, and 129 representatives opposed it. Presenter, Female #1 The Turkish anti-terror police fired tear gas to disperse dozens of protestors who opposed the war. Protestors gathered around parliament, which approved the government's request to conduct military operations inside Syria if necessary. Protestors chanted anti-war slogans and clashed with riot police. Reporter, Male #1 The outward calm in this scene at the Turkish Akcakale border gate appears to be a thin curtain that does not really conceal the tension that is dominating this area, and extends along the Turkish-Syrian border. Reporter, Male #1 This comes after Turkish civilians were killed and wounded in a shelling from Syrian territories. The influx of Syrian refugees, through the barbed wire that separates the borders of both countries, has not stopped despite the security and military mobilization. The Turkish military intensified the deployment of its forces in the area. Its artillery shelled targets in Syrian areas from where shells had been fired. Turkish shelling resulted in the deaths of a number of members of the regime's army. Reporter, Male #1 The Turkish government received parliament's approval to deploy its forces outside the borders, while it described the Syrian military aggression as a threat to Turkish national security. In the heart of Akcakale, a day after the shelling, the features of what happened are visible. The Syrian shells fell on different targets. One of them fell on this house and killed five women, leaving sadness, despair, and worry all across the village. Guest, Male #2 The dead were my next-door neighbors. We've been living through very bad psychological conditions for over a month and a half. No one can sleep because of the shelling and the sound of gunfire. Guest, Male #3 We are suffering from deep worry. We don't know when or where the shells will fall. We may become targets. These developments terrify us. Reporter, Male #1 Some of the families in Akcakale left their homes near the border and stayed in the streets, while others gathered near the mayor's office. In this atmosphere, public worry is growing with regard to the consequences of the Syrian crisis on Turkey's situation. Ordinary Turks and observers here tied this crisis to the latest escalation by the Kurdistan Workers Party, or the PKK, in Turkey. Presenter, Female #1 Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov called on Damascus to publically announce that the shelling of the border area within Turkey was an accident. Lavrov expressed his hope that Ankara and Damascus will open a channel of communication to prevent any escalation on the border between both countries. Guest, Male #4 (Sergei Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister) We are now in contact with the Syrian authorities, who have assured us, including through Lakhdar Brahimi, that it was a tragic accident, and they will do everything possible to make sure it never happens again. At the same time, we cannot ignore other aspects of the Syrian tragedy. Presenter, Female #1 The European Union condemned the Syrian shells falling in Turkey, and called on all parties to restrain themselves. As for the British foreign secretary, William Hague, he called for avoiding an escalation. However, he said that he understands Turkey's response. Guest, Male #5 (William Hague, British Foreign Secretary) I condemn the Syrian action that resulted yesterday in the death of Turkish citizens. I spoke to the Turkish foreign minister last night to convey the sympathies of the United Kingdom for the victims of this outrageous incident. The most important thing of all is that the Syrian government makes sure that there is no repetition whatever of any incident of this kind, so that such tensions on border regions with Turkey or with other neighboring countries can be avoided. And I look to the Syrian government to ensure that that happens. Guest, Male #5 This whole incident is a reminder that the longer this conflict goes on in Syria, the greater the danger to international peace and security, and that we need a transitional government and a peaceful solution to the conflict in Syria. This underlines the urgency of this. As to the Turkish response, of course we all want to make sure that there is no escalation of this incident, but I think the response of Turkey is understandable in these circumstances. I wanted to express our solidarity with Turkey, a valued NATO partner, but we don't want to see an escalation, from either side of the border, of the incident that has taken place. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-092612?start=313 The Free Syrian army conducted a bombing operation that targeted the military's General Staff Command Building, which resulted in the deaths of four security guard members and the injury of 14 others, reports Future TV. Wed, 26 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-092612 Syrian Civil War, Damascus, Free Syrian Army, Press TV, Military of Syria, UN General Assembly, Misurata, Iran-Syria relations, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Mali Presenter, Male #1 The Free Syrian army conducted a quality operation that targeted the military's General Staff Command Building, which resulted in the deaths of four security guard members and the injury of 14 others, according to reports by Syrian State TV. Reporter, Male #1 The devastating conditions that are being witnessed by the cities and provinces of Deir az-Zour, Homs, Aleppo, Hama, Daraa, and the Syrian capital Damascus, are nothing but more evidence that the Assad gang has upped the level of its murderous tactics in a big way, through concentrated, indiscriminate, savage shelling by tanks and airplanes on all of these cities, which killed 250 victims as of when this report was prepared, a number likely to increase. Reporter, Male #1 Forty bodies were discovered in the Damascus countryside. They were executed in the town of al-Thiyabiya. Meanwhile, shelling by heavy artillery resumed on the Rankous and Hosh Arab fields, and the cities of Douma and Harasta. Homs and its countryside also witnessed violent shelling by heavy artillery and tanks, on the neighborhoods of Jobar and al-Sultaniya. And helicopters shelled the city of al-Rastan, in sync with the heavy artillery that hammered the towns of Teir Maala and al-Ghant. Reporter, Male #1 In the meantime, Assad's army stormed the districts of al-Arbaeen, Mashael al-Arbaeen, and al-Sheikh Anbar in Hama, amid intense shooting, and a campaign that demolished and burned houses, while military jets shelled the town of Masoud near Oukairabat. Heavy artillery and mortar shelling also reached the neighborhoods of Bustan al-Qasr, al-Kannasa, and Masaken Hanano in Aleppo. Reporter, Male #1 Helicopters shelled Dael City in Daraa, while shelling was renewed on the town of Muarba, and the towns of the Lijah area, in the midst of an incursion by regime forces on the towns of Nemer and Kafr Shams, where they carried out destructive operations and arbitrary arrests. Deir az-Zour, Idlib, Latakia, and the Raqqah countryside were also targets for the Assad army, which used all of their heavy weapons to pummel citizens' homes, as well as carry out a raid by warplanes that concentrated on these cities, and resulted in a number of killed and injured. Reporter, Male #1 In Tartous, specifically in Baniyas City, Assad's brigades arrested 25 women, three children, and over 40 men, in a campaign that has continued for four days. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights demanded that Syrian authorities immediately and unconditionally release of all those detained in the Baniyas area, and warned of a sectarian war, which the regime is aiming for. Reporter, Male #1 The Syrian capital awoke to the sounds of explosions, battles, and clashes between the two armies, Assad's army and the Free Army. In the center of the capital, an explosion targeted the general headquarters of the military and armed forces near Umayyad Square, which is usually subject to intense security measures. In the midst of the explosion, intense gunfire was heard. Plumes of smoke rose from the location of the two explosions, as ambulances and fire trucks headed to the scene. Reporter, Male #1 The shabeha were dispatched in the Abbasiyyin area, and eyewitnesses said that regime forces closed off the Mezzeh Highway in the direction of Umayyad Square. Other information indicates that the building included offices for Iranian experts, in addition to many of the military commands of the Syrian regime. Reporter, Male #1 The Free Syrian Army claimed responsibility for the 2 explosions, clarifying that its members targeted the General Staff Command Building, and announced that dozens were killed. The Syrian regime, from its side, broadcast a series of tales with regard to the explosions. In the opening of its broadcast, Syrian TV showed a tape that it claimed was one of the two explosions that used car bombs in Damascus. Reporter, Male #1 Syrian Information Minister Omran al-Zoubi, acknowledged that the two explosions that resulted from explosive canisters did not cause any victims, announcing that all military commanders and journalists were fine. However, a Syrian military source announced that the attack caused the deaths of four security members guarding the General Staff Command Building, in addition to 14 injured civilians and military personnel. He accused those whom he described as "terrorist gangs with outside links" of being behind the attack. Reporter, Male #1 Iran's Press TV announced the death of its reporter, Maya Naser, by sniper fire in Damascus. Meanwhile, the Director of Al-Alam News Network, Hussein Murtada, and his cameraman were hit by gunfire while reporting the blast. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-092612?start=585 Press TV correspondent Maya Naser was gunned down by snipers while reporting at the site of two powerful explosions in the capital Damascus, which the Free Syrian Army has claimed responsibility for. Wed, 26 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-092612 Syrian Civil War, Damascus, Free Syrian Army, Press TV, Military of Syria, UN General Assembly, Misurata, Iran-Syria relations, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Mali Armed groups in the Syrian capital Damascus attacked Press TV staff and killed one of their reporters. Press TV correspondent Maya Naser came under attack while reporting on air. The 33-year-old was gunned down by snipers while reporting at the site of two powerful explosions in the capital Damascus. Syrian military sources said that four security guards were killed, while at least 40 civilians and security personnel were wounded in the blasts. The Free Syrian Army has claimed responsibility for the attack. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082412?start=1046 <p>Israel takes aim at Palestinian agricultural sector in Jericho, minor clashes break out between pro- and anti-Muslim Brotherhood protestors in Egypt, renewed tribal clashes leave three people dead in northern Libya, and more.</p> Fri, 24 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082412 Israel, Protest, Nuclear program of Iran, International Atomic Energy Agency, Cairo, Tahrir Square, Syrian Civil War, Demonstration (people), Iran, Tripoli Presenter, Male #1 Iran has announced that it will present a proposal to solve the conflict in Syria during the Non-Aligned summit that it is hosting next week, as clashes continue in several parts of the country. Reporter, Female #1 Clashes between the regime's army and the armed opposition continue in a number of neighborhoods in the city of Aleppo and its countryside, which led to the destruction of a number of homes. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said at least 16 people, among them eight women, were killed in the shelling of two residential buildings in the city of Mayadeen in the countryside of Deir az-Zour. Reporter, Female #1 The Coordination Committee announced the death toll caused by the violence on Friday reached 110, with 300 wounded. They were victims of the Syrian army's shelling of the cities of Daraya and Zabadani, and the Ard al-Shark area in the city of Arabin in the countryside of Damascus. In addition, a number of towns in Idlib, Daraa Province, and the city of Homs came under heavy shelling. A number of neighborhoods in Hama witnessed fierce clashes, according to the Syrian Observatory. Reporter, Female #1 For its part, the official news agency, SANA, reported that the army carried out a qualitative operation that resulted in the destruction of 40 cars packed with Doshka machine guns coming from Jarablus in the countryside of Aleppo. As every Friday, protests denouncing the regime were held in several areas under the banner, "Don't despair, Daraa, for God is with us". Reporter, Female #1 On the political front, the spokeswoman for the US secretary of state, Victoria Nuland, confirmed that during talks in Ankara between Turkish and American officials, a transition plan for a post-Assad Syria was discussed. Means to support the opposition and solve the refugee situation were also tackled. Nuland didn't mention whether the Ankara talks included the issue of the possible use of chemical weapons. Reporter, Female #1 On the other hand, Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi announced that Iran will propose an initiative to solve the conflict in Syria during the Non-Aligned Movement summit that will be held in Tehran next week. Salehi did not provide any details about the proposal, but confirmed it will be acceptable, rational, and principled, and will include all parties. He added it will be very difficult to oppose it. Salehi reiterated his country's readiness to host talks between the Syrian government and the opposition following the Non-Aligned summit and the convening of the UN General Assembly in September. Reporter, Female #1 Russia's Foreign Ministry affirmed in a statement that Russia objects to unilateral sanctions on Syria, saying it has not limited its cooperation with the country as a result of those sanctions, clarifying that Russian-Syrian trade relations are developing dynamically despite the internal turmoil in the country. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081312?start=770 New TV reports that the Free Syrian Army downed a Syrian military plane, then broadcast a video of the arrested pilot. Meanwhile, Syrian state TV showed a brutal video of opposition fighters slitting an unarmed man's throat. Mon, 13 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081312 Iran, Politics of Egypt, Michel Samaha, Nangarhar Province, 2012 East Azerbaijan earthquakes, Free Syrian Army, Iran-Israel relations, Politics of Tunisia, Politics of Somalia, Tahrir Square Presenter, Female #1 The Free Syrian Army downed a Syrian military plane, then broadcast a video of the arrested pilot. As for the regime, it broadcast a video displaying brutal acts by opposition fighters as the shelling continues in Aleppo, Damascus, and its countryside. Reporter, Female #2 These brutal scenes are as removed from humanity and human rights as possible. They were posted online and attributed to opposition fighters from the Free Army in Aleppo Province. The fighters can be seen slaughtering a man without blinking by slitting his throat. Reporter, Female #2 The video shows a blindfolded and handcuffed man resisting a group of men forcing him to lie on the ground. Then, one of the men slits his throat with a knife more than once, until his blood starts flowing on the sidewalk amid cries of "God is great." One of the men can be heard saying, "This is the fate of every shabeha, and every government supporter." Reporter, Female #2 On the ground in Syria, the scene has not changed much in the past few days, as the beginning of the week witnessed the shelling of Damascus and its countryside, Aleppo, and specifically the neighborhood of Salaheddin. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Syrian regime forces stormed the Saif al-Dawla neighborhood, located in the western part of the city, and clashed with a number of fighters. Reporter, Female #2 Meanwhile, the Free Syrian Army announced its control over the Syrian regime's largest checkpoint in Tafas in Daraa Province. The Free Syrian Army announced that it downed a MiG military plane the group said was shelling the city of Mohassan in the province of Deir az-Zour. A brigade that calls itself the descendants of Muhammad, and is affiliated with the Free Syrian Army, broadcast a video of the arrested Syrian pilot. Guest, Male #1 Colonel Staff Pilot Mofid Mohammad Suleiman. Guest, Male #2 What was the mission you were assigned? Guest, Male #1 We were assigned to shell the city of Mohassan. Guest, Male #2 What would you tell the soldiers of al-Assad's army? Guest, Male #1 I would tell them to defect from this gang. Reporter, Female #2 On the other hand, the official Syrian news agency SANA said that a military plane crashed as it was conducting a routine training mission in the eastern province. The pilot was forced to eject from the plane due to a technical failure. Reporter, Female #2 Syrian TV announced that specialized agencies confronted an armed terrorist group in the area of Jami'yet al-Zahraa in Aleppo, killing and wounding many of them. It added that it raided terrorist hideouts in the neighborhoods of Old Damascus, and found tunnels that contain a variety of weapons and grenades, and Israeli-made bombs. Reporter, Female #2 Politically, the Syrian Foreign Ministry welcomed Tehran's consultative meeting on Syria, in which Iran called for starting a dialogue between the Syrian regime and opposition groups, confirming it will continue to build on these positive initiatives. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-072312?start=234 Syrian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Jihad al-Maqdisi confirmed that chemical and biological weapons will never be used in the conflict unless Syria is subjected to foreign aggression, reports New TV. Mon, 23 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-072312 Israel, Islamic State of Iraq, Syrian Civil War, 2011 Moroccan Protests, Kurds in Turkey, US-Afghanistan relations, Egyptian Revolution of 1952, Gaza blockade, Shaul Mofaz, Self-immolation Presenter, Female #1 The Arabs have offered President Bashar al-Assad a safe exit in exchange for his quick resignation. However, Syrian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Jihad al-Maqdisi confirmed that the people will decide, not the Arabs. Meanwhile, clashes are continuing in Aleppo, and the army has taken control of most neighborhoods in Damascus. Reporter, Female #2 After fierce clashes erupted in the neighborhood of al-Mazza in Damascus between regime forces and members of the Free Syrian Army, the Maher al-Assad-led Fourth Division, supported by helicopters, was able to regain control of most neighborhoods in Damascus, according to confirmations by the official authorities. Syrian television broadcast images of the identification cards of those it referred to as terrorists, indicating that they are Jordanians and Egyptians. Reporter, Female #2 The Syrian Revolution's General Commission reported the resumption of violent shelling this morning in several neighborhoods in the city of Homs, as fierce clashes continue between regime forces and opposition fighters in the neighborhoods of the city of Aleppo. On the other hand, official authorities denied that clashes occurred in Aleppo, as state television broadcast video clips of the city's streets, assuring that it is calm. Meanwhile, the Syrian Foreign Ministry spokesman, Jihad al-Maqdisi, held a press conference during which he condemned the Arab ministers' call on Assad to resign, and discussed the issue of biological weapons. Guest Male #1 (Jihad Maqdisi, Syrian Foreign Ministry Spokesman) We confirm that chemical and biological weapons will never be used. To reiterate: they will never be used during the crisis in Syria regardless of the developments on the Syrian front. The different types of weapons are stored and secured by the Syrian armed forces, and are under its direct supervision and will never be used, unless Syria is subjected to a foreign aggression. At the same time, the ministry is warning of another concerning issue, and that is the possibility of terrorist groups armed from abroad amid the increasing failure to hit the political regime in Syria. Arming these groups with tactical bombs or mines that contain biological substances and, God forbid, detonating them in a village then accusing the Syrian forces of it. Guest Male #1 The change in Mr. Annan's mission is not in the hands of the Arab ministers. As for stepping down and such matters, we tell everyone, to the Arab League, and to everyone, that the Syrian people make their own decisions. They are the ones who decide the fate of governments, presidents, states, etc. They are the ones who participate in a national dialogue. Reporter, Female #2 Arab foreign ministers had agreed during their meeting to offer Syrian President Bashar al-Assad a safe exit in exchange for relinquishing power. Guest, Male #3 (Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani, Qatari Prime Minister) The Syrian opposition must now unite, internally and abroad, to form a transitional government. This does not mean that any transitional government that is formed now will remain in power forever. Reporter, Female #2 The Iraqi government announced that Iraq rejected the Arab League's call on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to resign, saying that al-Assad's fate can only be decided by the Syrian people. As for Russia, President Vladimir Putin assured that toppling al-Assad may lead to a continued war, and stressed that Syria's future is decided through negotiations, and not on the basis of victory or loss in the conflict. And with that, the European Union decided to tighten its sanctions against Damascus and implement a weapons ban. In their meeting in Brussels, EU ministers confirmed that the ban will include the Syrian airline which is prohibited from landing in Europe, and additional people will be added to the list of those sanctioned. http://news.linktv.org/videos/fighting-rages-in-key-assad-bastion-of-aleppo?start=0 Fighting in Syria has gained momentum in Aleppo, the country's main commercial hub in the north and key bastion of the Assad clan. Though the Free Syrian Army has gained control of some surrounding villages, activists say Aleppo will be a tough fight. Sun, 22 Jul 2012 06:03:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/fighting-rages-in-key-assad-bastion-of-aleppo Aleppo, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Damascus, Free Syrian Army, Hama, Homs, Bashar al-Assad, Military of Syria, Politics of Syria As government forces in Syria seek to regain control of rebel-held areas, fighting in the country has gained siginifcant traction in Aleppo, the country's main commercial hub in the north and key bastion of the Assad clan. Though the Free Syrian Army has gained control of some surrounding villages, activists say Aleppo will be a tough fight and will not fall quickly. Elsewhere in the country, in Homs, Damascus and Hama, reports continue to show evidence of shelling, gunfire and sniper attacks. 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/spanish-photojournalist-saw-obvious-proof-of-heavy-weapons-in-tremseh?start=0 Daniel Leal Olivas, a Spanish freelance photojournalist, visited Tremseh, not long after the massacre had taken place. He recounts seeing tank tracks and mortar shells, disputing the Syrian government's claim that the military did not use heavy weaponry. Sun, 15 Jul 2012 11:34:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/spanish-photojournalist-saw-obvious-proof-of-heavy-weapons-in-tremseh Tremseh massacre, Military campaign, Tremseh, Eyewitness testimony, Syrian Civil War, Civilian casualties, Politics of Syria, Mortar (weapon), Artillery, Syrian people Daniel Leal Olivas, a Spanish freelance photojournalist, visited the site of Syria's latest civilian massacre, Tremseh, not too long after the military campaign took place. In this powerful eyewitness account, he says he saw tank tracks and mortar shells, disputing the Syrian government's claim that the military did not use heavy weaponry. Activists say that more than 100 people were killed in the village during the military campaign on Thursday. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071312?start=35 A new Syrian massacre occurred in the town of al-Tremseh in Hama Province, in which over 150 people were killed, New TV reports. In another development, the UN observers' team to Syria has suspended its work due to the unacceptable level of violence. Fri, 13 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071312 Mogadishu, Somalia, Muslim Brotherhood, Saudi Arabia, Tremseh massacre, 2011-2012 Sudanese protests, 2011-2012 Jordanian Protests, 2011-2012 Saudi Arabia protests, Gaza, Politics of Egypt Presenter, Female #1 A Syrian military source confirmed that the armed forces carried out an operation targeting members of armed terrorist groups that led to the killing of a large number of them, and did not lead to the death of any civilians. Reporter, Female #2 As the Security Council is making preparations for a session on the crisis in Syria, a new massacre occurred in the town of al-Tremseh in Hama, in which over 150 people were killed. The regime and the opposition traded accusations, while the opposition asked the UN Security Council to issue an urgent and firm resolution on the regime in Damascus, as an official Syrian military source announced that armed military forces killed a large number of terrorists in al-Tremseh on Thursday. The source said an operation was executed and did not lead to the killing of civilians, but large quantities of weapons were confiscated, and documents retrieved, including the IDs of non-Syrians; one of them was Turkish. The military source confirmed that the Syrian forces searched hideouts, finding the bodies of a number of civilians who were previously kidnapped by the armed terrorist groups, then killed. Reporter, Female #2 On the other hand, a Syrian media source said the bloody media channels carried out the Tremseh massacre in coordination with terrorist groups in an attempt to alter public opinion against Syria, and push for foreign intervention on the eve of the Security Council's session. As for the international envoy to Syria, Kofi Annan, he condemned the massacre, saying the observers' delegation is ready to verify the facts. He demanded freedom of movement for the delegation, saying the use of heavy weapons is a violation of the Syrian government's vows. The White House said the horrendous acts committed by al-Assad's forces must stop, and require a coordinated international response at the United Nations. For its part, Russia condemned the massacre, and called for an investigation into it. It said the massacre serves the interests of parties that wish to instigate a religious and sectarian struggle in Syria. Reporter, Female #2 In a separate development, the head of the Syrian National Council, Abdel Baset Sayda, asked the Security Council to hold an urgent session dedicated to protecting the people from the killing they are subjected to, and for an urgent meeting of Arab foreign ministers. He also asked for an international investigation into the massacres by the Human Rights Council and international organizations. Sayda confirmed that the only solution is the removal of the killing elite, and that no dialogue can be held with the killers. Guest Male #1 (Abdel Baset Sayda, Head of Syrian National Council) In case this cannot be achieved because of an expected and undesired Russian veto, we must take action with the "Friends of Syria" group, and this grouping is large and consists of over 100 countries and holds international legitimacy. It must take action, and take practical steps, practical steps. The condemnations and the statements are no longer meaningful. Reporter, Female #2 On the ground, al-Ra'es Street in al-Mazzeh neighborhood in the center of the Syrian capital was shaken by a car explosion that resulted in material losses. The official SANA news agency said armed terrorist groups detonated an explosive device attached to the car. Reporter, Female #2 In another development, the head of the UN observers' team to Syria, General Robert Mood, said during a press conference that the delegation has suspended its work due to the unacceptable level of violence, clarifying that the delegation's mission is to observe the ceasefire, but that the rise of violence has obstructed the monitors' ability to fulfill the mission. Reporter, Female #2 The Syrian minister of national reconciliation affairs, Ali Haidar, confirmed that his doors are open to everyone wishing to communicate, and that he has started indirect contacts. He sent a message that those who refuse to go to Damascus under the pretext that they fear arrest, by saying "If you don't accept our guarantees, then I will be personally responsible for protecting you," and pointed to his willingness to meet in Beirut. He said that anyone can go to Lebanon, and that everyone would guarantee the person's safety in Lebanon. He concluded by saying, "Let's talk here, and decide what we will do." Meanwhile, protests were held on Friday in different parts of Syria under the banner of "Toppling Annan, al-Assad, and Iran's servant." http://news.linktv.org/videos/turkey-threatens-military-retaliation-against-syria?start=0 There have been strong words from Turkey but a more muted response from NATO, four days after Syria shot down a Turkish fighter jet. Turkey's Prime Minister says his country will retaliate, if any Syrian military unit approaches its border. Tue, 26 Jun 2012 10:27:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/turkey-threatens-military-retaliation-against-syria Syria-Turkey relations, Syria, Turkey, NATO, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Syrian army, F-4 Phantom II, Damascus, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, Fighter aircraft There have been strong words from Turkey but a more muted response from NATO, four days after Syria shot down a Turkish fighter jet. Turkey's Prime Minister says his country will retaliate, if any Syrian military unit approaches its border. NATO has condemned the incident but has stopped short of threatening any military response. Meanwhile, fierce fighting continues across Syria, creeping closer to the center of the capital Damascus. Al Jazeera's Cal Perry reports. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-051712?start=35 <p>Renewed clashes erupt in Lebanon's Tripoli as Hezbollah is blamed, Israel and Iran beat the drums of war ahead of nuclear talks in Baghdad, the White House threatens to target anyone 'obstructing' transition in Yemen, and more.</p> Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-051712 Israel, Syrian Civil War, Tel Aviv, Tripoli, Lebanon, Iran-Israel relations, US-Yemen relations, US-Israel relations, Al Wefaq, Egyptian presidential election, 2012, Eli Yishai Presenter, Female #1 Syrian opposition sources have confirmed that the city of al-Rastan in the central province of Homs witnessed a heavy pre-dawn shelling by the Syrian armed forces. Activists in the city told a French news agency that al-Rastan is witnessing an unprecedented shelling, aimed at breaking the morale of residents and members of the Free Syrian Army. However, the activists ruled out the possibility of regime forces storming the city at this time. They also invited UN observers to visit the city. Also at dawn, the al-Khalidiya neighborhood witnessed heavy artillery shelling by Syrian tanks. In addition, a powerful blast rocked the city of Dael in Huran Province. Furthermore, a series of explosions rocked the coastal city of Latakia. The Syrian Revolution General Commission said that army and security forces killed 28 civilians across various parts of the country, notably in Homs. Presenter, Female #1 The University of Aleppo has witnessed a massive demonstration demanding the downfall of the Syrian regime. Activists uploaded footage showing thousands of students demonstrating on the university's campus with the arrival of UN observers. The demonstrators also destroyed a large picture of the late president Hafez al-Assad. In addition, the colleges of medicine, mechanical engineering, and information witnessed sit-in rallies and demonstrations. The Syrian authorities closed the university for several weeks, as security forces stormed student dormitories. Four students were killed in the raid. The activists called for demonstrations tomorrow under the slogan, "The heroes of Aleppo University." http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-051512?start=906 In the town of Khan Shaykhun in Syria's Idlib Province, Syrian regime forces shelled the UN observer convoy, leaving behind a massacre among the residents, Future TV reports. However, none of the observers were hurt in the attack. Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-051512 Palestinians, Nuclear program of Iran, Gaza, Iran, Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Yemeni al-Qaeda crackdown, Nakba, Palestinian prisoners in Israel, Middle East Peace Process, Syrian Civil War Presenter, Female #1 Sixty-six people were killed today by the gunfire of al-Assad's brigades. Most of the victims were killed in Deir az-Zour. Meanwhile, several Syrian cities and towns witnessed heavy shelling. The UN observer team was targeted during a tour in the town of Khan Shaykhun. The Free Syrian Army launched a counterattack on regime forces, and destroyed armored vehicles in the city of Dael, north of Daraa, which witnessed heavy shelling. Reporter, Male #1 Shells, tanks, and al-Assad brigades; none of these distinguish between a UN observer and a Syrian citizen. In the town of Khan Shaykhun in Idlib, Syrian regime tanks didn't give the residents a chance to chat with UN observers. The regime forces shelled the UN convoy, leaving behind a massacre among the residents. However, none of the observers were hurt in the attack. Reporter, Male #1 In the town of al-Rastan in Homs Province, activists posted images online showing dozens of injured people by the heavy shelling of al-Assad brigades, which used tanks, rockets, and mortar shells. The activists said that a humanitarian crisis is looming in al-Rastan amid the rubble of destruction caused by the recent heavy shelling. Reporter, Male #1 A blast rocked the coastal city of Baniyas, killing several people. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, several people were killed by gunfire of regime forces in the countryside of Damascus. Also in the countryside of Damascus, security forces opened indiscriminate fire in the area of Shihab al-Din, killing an infant girl. In addition, a man was killed by sniper gunfire in the city of Duma. Reporter, Male #1 The Observatory said that regime forces carried out a campaign of raids and arrests across various parts of Duma, which is considered to be a key protest hub in the countryside of Damascus. In the countryside of Daraa, the area of Lajah witnessed heavy rocket shelling overnight, causing panic and fear among the residents. In Dael, Syrian armed forces targeted residential homes with moderate and heavy shelling, amid the sound of explosions and gunfire. Several people were killed or injured in the shelling. On the other hand, the Free Syrian Army launched a counterattack on regime forces and destroyed armored vehicles in the city of Dael. Reporter, Male #1 The scene on the ground was not much different than the one in Hama and its countryside, especially in al-Qisour neighborhood, which has been rocked by a series of powerful and simultaneous explosions since last night, amid the heavy gunfire of security forces, which used automatic weapons. Furthermore, a series of powerful explosions rocked the city of Homs and its countryside, as regime forces opened fire along the Siteen Street connecting Deir Baalba with al-Biyadah. In Idlib's Jisr al-Shughour, security forces stormed the residential homes and arrested several minors between the ages of 15 and 18. Reporter, Male #1 In another development, the student opposition movement in Syria announced a general strike protesting the storming of the University of Damascus by security forces, which opened fire on campus. This news comes a day after regime forces and shabeha launched a fierce attack on the College of Electrical and Mechanic Engineering. The regime forces opened fire on campus and arrested dozens of students, prompting the university's administration to suspend classes. http://news.linktv.org/videos/blast-hits-syrian-soldiers-near-un-convoy?start=0 A blast Wednesday targeted a Syrian military truck as UN observers passed it. Six soldiers were reported wounded, but the head of the UN mission said his teams would carry on. Wed, 09 May 2012 12:05:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/blast-hits-syrian-soldiers-near-un-convoy Syrian Civil War, Daraa, Bomb, Kofi Annan peace plan for Syria, UN Peacekeepers, Free Syrian Army, Military of Syria, Kofi Annan, Syria, United Nations General Assembly observers A blast Wednesday targeted a Syrian military truck as UN observers passed it. Six soldiers were reported wounded, but the head of the UN mission said his teams would carry on. http://news.linktv.org/videos/kofi-annan-says-syria-plan-alive-despite-attacks?start=0 Kofi Annan, the UN-Arab League envoy to Syria, has said it is not too late to implement a UN-brokered peace plan, despite reports of continued violence across the embattled country, including in areas not previously targeted. Tue, 10 Apr 2012 16:36:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/kofi-annan-says-syria-plan-alive-despite-attacks Syria, Kofi Annan, Ceasefire, Syrian conflict peace proposals , Syrian Civil War, Walid Muallem, Aleppo Governorate, Homs, Syria-Turkey relations, Syrian army Kofi Annan, the UN-Arab League envoy to Syria, has said it is not too late to implement a UN-brokered peace plan, despite reports of continued violence across the embattled country. Activists on Tuesday reported heavy shelling by government troops in the city of Homs and the northern village of Marea in Aleppo. Walid Muallem, the Syrian foreign minister, said in Moscow that Damascus had started pulling some troops out of different provinces. But Annan said he had information that while the Syrian military was withdrawing from some areas, it was also moving to others not previously targeted. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-032912?start=770 <p>Arab summit marks milestone for Baghdad as leaders remain divided, International Labor Organization calls on Bahrain to reinstate all sacked workers, Egypt's al-Ahly fans demand justice for Port Said victims, and more.</p> Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-032912 Palestinians, Israel, Jerusalem, Syrian Civil War, Arab League, Israel Defense Forces, Bashar al-Assad, Israelis, Syria, Israeli–Palestinian conflict Presenter, Male #1 There is enough evidence to indict Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, as cited by UN Human Rights commissioner Navi Pillay. Pillay said the acts of violence committed by security forces must have received the approval or involved complicity at the highest level, and they could end by an order from al-Assad. The UN commissioner also accused Syrian forces of committing acts she described as "horrendous," such as opening fire at children and denying them medical treatment. Presenter, Male #1 Meanwhile, the Syrian armed forces continued their military campaigns across several Syrian cities, killing 21 people. Most of the victims were killed in clashes between the regime's forces and army defectors. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said fierce clashes have been raging since yesterday in the countryside of Hama, killing four civilians, five defectors, and four regime soldiers in the area of Qalat al-Madiq. In addition, dozens of regime soldiers were injured in the clashes. Luai Ghabra has more details. Reporter, Male #2 This is Syria, where today is not much different than yesterday, and where the sound of gunfire is echoing louder than the voices of protests. There also, the news of killing, shelling, and displacement is continuing to dominate the scene. This comes as the scene of armed confrontations between regime forces and army defectors is continuing to expand. In the countryside of Hama, military and security operations are raging amid fierce clashes that claimed several lives. This news came as reports confirmed the death of two regime soldiers in an attack on their military truck. Reporter, Male #2 In the area of Qalat al-Madiq and surrounding villages, many homes were looted and set on fire amid heavy gunfire. In "Green Idlib" as it's known, the squares were turned into battlefields amid the sounds of powerful explosions and heavy gunfire. Today, military forces stormed several villages in the eastern countryside of Maarat al-Numan, killing several civilians. Reporter, Male #2 Meanwhile, clashes erupted in the countryside of Damascus. Also, fierce confrontations broke out between regime forces and defected armed groups in Wadi Qak and Kafr Amer in the area of al-Zabadani. A powerful explosion was heard in the city of Harasta, and columns of smoke were seen raging near an army checkpoint. To the south of Damascus, fierce confrontations erupted near al-Diwar al-Jadid in the city of Dael in Dara'a province, injuring eight regime soldiers and destroying an armored troop carrier, as regime forces continue to impose a tight siege on several neighboring villages. Images and news, which are made available on opposition websites and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, seem to offer a painful glimpse of the daily Syrian life. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-032812?start=753 <p>Syria to reject any Arab League initiative made in its absence, Sudanese forces recapture oil-rich border regions, Israeli extremist recruiting former soldiers to evict Palestinians from their homes, and more.</p> Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-032812 Syrian Civil War, Palestinians, Yemen Uprising, Yemen, Syria, Libya, Hillary Clinton, Israel, Arab Spring - duplicate, Heglig Presenter, Male #1 Today, more lives were added to Syria's death toll, which the UN estimated at over 9,000. The Syrian army stormed the town of Qalat al-Madiq in the countryside of Hama. Meanwhile, military operations continued in Homs and Dara'a. Yesterday, more than 80 people were killed by the gunfire of the regime's forces. Most of the victims were killed in Idlib province. Luai Ghabra reports. Reporter, Male #2 The rain in Homs couldn't wash away the remnants of the shelling or soothe the wounds of its residents. From Baba Amr to Bab Hood, and from al-Khalidya to al-Rastan, and others, death reports continue to emerge every day. Syrian army brigades are taking turns shelling these neighborhoods, firing dozens of shells every hour. As usual, the Syrian regime claims it was pursuing armed groups. And as usual, the number and names of the victims are not immediately made available. Reporter, Male #2 Alongside civilians, the death toll includes soldiers killed in combat zones in battles raging between the regime's army and the Free Syrian Army. In the latest incident, three regime soldiers were killed and dozens of others were wounded in fierce clashes that erupted near the entrance of al-Rastan, following failed attempts by the armed forces to storm the city. In the countryside of Dara'a in the south, clashes broke out between Syrian regime forces and armed defected brigades in the town of Busr al-Harir. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said this comes after the army warned the residents it would storm the town unless they hand over army defectors. Guest, Male #3 The shelling of Qalat al-Madiq is a Hollywood film produced behind closed doors. Reporter, Male #2 After several attempts, Syrian military forces were able to storm the town of Qalat al-Madiq, backed by dozens of heavy machinery and armored vehicles, forcing army defectors to withdraw, following two weeks of seesaw battles. Shelling by the regime's forces inflicted massive damage to the ancient al-Madiq Castle. Presenter, Male #1 Now that the Syrian regime has accepted Kofi Annan's plan, the Syrian opposition called on President Bashar al-Assad to immediately withdraw the tanks from the cities. This news comes after the opposition in Turkey signed an "oath" document, calling for drafting a new constitution that doesn't discriminate between Syrians, holding fair elections, and establishing multi-party rule. The organizers announced the formation of a committee to restructure the national council so it includes all opposition groups. The committee is expected to file a report on its findings within three weeks. However, the council's final statement was read as the Kurdish bloc withdrew. Guest, Male #4 (Burhan Ghalioun, Syrian National Council Leader) We talked about the need to sign together, meaning all the members of the opposition, in order to have national consensus over Syria and its future. Fortunately, there was an agreement and consensus by everyone in this conference. We also talked about the need to restructure the Syrian National Council so we can integrate all the members of the Syrian opposition. Presenter, Male #1 Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's acceptance of a peace plan by the Joint UN-Arab League Special Envoy to Syria, Kofi Annan, must be matched by "immediate actions". Guest, Female #1 (Hillary Clinton, US Secretary of State) The Joint Special Envoy Kofi Annan and the Syrian National Council agreed that the Assad regime's written acceptance of the initiative is a vital step. However, given Assad's history of over-promising and under-delivering makes me say that his commitment must be matched by actions. If this happens, Annan will work with the opposition to stop the bloodshed and allow humanitarian organizations to access areas under the opposition's control. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-021012?start=263 BBC Arabic reports that the Free Syrian Army claimed responsibility for two attacks targeting a military intelligence compound and riot police base in Aleppo, while thousands protested on what was called "the Friday of Russia is killing our children." Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-021012 Palestinians, Israel, Palestinian prisoners in Israel, Aleppo, Syrian Civil War, Egyptian Parliamentary Election 2011-2012, Yemen Uprising, 2011-2012 Saudi Arabia protests, Bahrain Uprising, Israeli–Palestinian conflict Presenter, Male #1 The Free Syrian Army claimed responsibility for two attacks targeting a military intelligence compound and riot police base in Aleppo. In an interview with the BBC, deputy commander of the Free Syrian Army, Colonel Maliki al-Kurdi, said FSA members attacked the two buildings with machine guns and rockets. However, he accused the Syrian regime of causing the explosion in the military intelligence building to block the FSA's operation. He added that the Free Syrian Army did not have any bomb-laden vehicles. Syria's state-run TV says the two bombings targeted a military security branch and the base of a riot police brigade in the northern Syrian city of Aleppo. 25 people were killed and 175 were injured. Reporter, Male #2 A cloud of smoke is rising from the city of Aleppo. According to those who uploaded these images online, it is the result of the blast that targeted the military security building and the base of a riot police brigade. It is considered the first operation of its kind by the Free Syrian Army, the most prominent faction within the armed Syrian opposition. The FSA mostly consists of defectors from the Syrian army. However, the FSA only claimed responsibility for the armed attack and not for the bombing caused by a booby-trapped vehicle. The Syrian government was quick to condemn the two attacks. The Syrian Ministry of Health said the death toll reached 28, including military members and civilians. In addition, 235 were wounded according to the Syrian state news agency SANA. Since its establishment, the Free Syrian Army has insisted on affirming that its operations only aim to protect civilians. In a prior statement, its leadership denied it intends to transition to offensive operations. The attack occurred on Friday in the daytime as Syrians were protesting in Aleppo; the city has recently begun to witness anti-regime demonstrations. These protests were renewed on Friday and confronted by gunfire from the security forces, according to dissidents who uploaded these images online. Presenter, Male #1 The Syrian Revolution's General Commission said the death toll rose to 65 people today, most of whom were killed by the gunfire of security forces and the army in Homs, where the Syrian army is continuing its military operations. Meanwhile, thousands of Syrians protested in various parts of the country on what was called the "Friday of Russia is killing our children." Through this slogan, the Syrian opposition expressed its rejection of Russia's position on the Syrian crisis at the Security Council. Some areas witnessed confrontations between protestors and the Syrian military and security forces, whose tanks heavily struck neighborhoods of Syrian towns and villages. Reporter, Male #3 The daily scene of shelling continues in Homs. These images show the situation in Bab Amr. But the people of Homs, enduring military attacks as well as violent artillery shelling, took to the streets. In the neighborhood of al-Qusur, dissidents named this Friday "Russia is killing our children" and also the "Friday to bear arms." The Syrian revolutionary commission's call to take up arms coincides with the growing calls on the Syrian street to embrace the Free Syrian Army's forces. Among the remaining areas witnessing the popular mobilization was Homs, which chanted for victory. Syria's flag of independence was raised alongside the Kurdish flag in al-Hasaka region of al-Qamishili. Cities and villages in Idlib province saw protests as well. This is the neighborhood of al-Hamidiya in Hama, and protests also erupted in al-Fardous neighborhood of Aleppo despite the explosions that struck the security centers. http://news.linktv.org/videos/besieged-homs-endures-tank-assault?start=0 The Syrian military is reportedly moving deeper into the city of Homs, firing rockets and mortars rounds into residential areas, a day after the Russian foreign minister said President Bashar al-Assad was "fully committed" to ending the bloodshed. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:04:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/besieged-homs-endures-tank-assault Homs, Syria, Bashar al-Assad, Syrian Civil War, Tank, Syrian army, Mortar (weapon), Sergei Lavrov, Offensive (military), Civilian casualties The Syrian military is reportedly moving deeper into residential areas in the city of Homs, a day after the Russian foreign minister said President Bashar al-Assad was "fully committed" to ending the bloodshed. Activists said the army was firing rockets and mortar rounds to subdue opposition districts on Wednesday, as tanks entered the Inshaat neighborhood and moved closer to Bab Amr. Al Jazeera's Imran Khan reports. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-020812?start=36 Dubai TV reports that Syrian forces stormed several neighborhoods in Homs, most notably Baba Amr, killing more than 50 people. The residents issued an urgent appeal to protect the children and women, as well as provide aid to the injured. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-020812 Israel, United States, Humanitarian aid, Hillary Clinton, Syrian Civil War, Egypt, Al-Shabaab, Ali Abdullah Saleh, Bahrain Uprising, Politics of Afghanistan Presenter, Female #1 It was a bloody dawn in Homs dawn as the Syrian regime continues to use an iron fist on the city's neighborhoods. More than 50 people were killed during the early morning hours in an attack described as the most violent. Army and security forces stormed several of Homs's neighborhoods, most notably Baba Amero, which endured heavy shelling. The residents issued an urgent appeal to protect the children and women as well as provide aid to the injured. The situation in Homs is not much different from the one in Daraa or Idlib, amid the sounds of gunfire and calls for relief and aid. Al-Seghair Salam reports. Reporter, Male #1 The city of Homs spent the night under heavy shelling and woke up this morning to a fierce attack by Syrian armed forces. The shelling targeted the neighborhoods of Baba Amero, al-Khalidiyah, Biadah, Karm al-Zaytoun, Rifa'i, and Wadi al-Arab, in a bid by the army and security forces to storm them. Columns of smoke were seen rising from several homes, which were either razed to the ground or partially destroyed over their occupants, raising the death toll by the minute in light of this unprecedented attack on the city. Activists in Homs said that the shelling is targeting water networks and power lines, amid reports that 40 percent of the city's homes have been damaged and some areas completely destroyed. This video leaked from one of the city's homes, which was turned into a bleak field hospital, shows that dozens of injured are being left without any basic medical supplies. And this video shows members of the Free Syrian Army, who vowed to defend civilians and provide medical aid and medicine if available. In Homs, there is no evidence of the reforms promised by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad at the beginning of the uprising. The only evidence here points to heavy gunfire and bombings that continue to rock Homs's neighborhoods, which are rejecting the use of gunfire and an iron fist to deal with their demands, most notably freedom and the downfall of the regime. Another voice is echoing across Syria's Homs, which seems to be enduring more than its share of the shelling. It's the voice of women and children, who sought refuge in basements to escape the shelling. From these basements, they issued an appeal for relief, in the hopes that someone will hear them and protect them from the indiscriminate shelling. Guest, Female #2 Don't they fear God? Isn't a sin to leave this infant at the shelter with no heater? Isn't what's happening to this little girl a sin? Reporter, Male #1 From central to southern Syria, particularity Daraa, the epicenter of the uprising against al-Assad's rule, Syrian women are crying for help amid the piles of dead men's bodies. In the streets of Daraa, residents chanted slogans denouncing President al-Assad and the army's crackdown. And this was regime's response, which seems to be blaring louder, for now. Presenter, Female #1 These are live images from the city of Daraa, the epicenter of the protests against the Syrian regime. The residents took to the streets in funeral processions to mourn their dead, with dozens of victims continuing to fall on a daily basis. Today, the Syrian army launched the most violent campaign against the city of Homs. The army started a predawn operation by shelling several neighborhoods in Homs, and storming several others. Among the dead were several children. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-121411?start=615 <p>Egyptians seek more "balanced" vote in second round of parliamentary elections, Obama's speech at Fort Bragg marks end of Iraq war, Syria faces surge of violence as Assad's brigades invade Hama killing 32 civilians, and more.</p> Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-121411 Withdrawal of US troops from Iraq, Israel Defense Forces, Jerusalem, Iraq, Israel, Egypt, Syrian Civil War, Yemen Uprising, Bahrain Uprising, Al-Shabaab Reporter, Female #1 Syrian activists confirmed that Assad's brigades stormed the city of Hama and killed 32 civilians. Meanwhile, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights announced the deaths of eight Syrian troops in an ambush set-up by defectors in the countryside of Hama. This news comes as the opposition's strike enters its fourth day. Reporter, Male #1 A heinous military escalation was launched by Assad's brigades in an attempt to minimize the effects of the anti-regime strike and also to prevent the Syrian opposition from escalating its mobilization to stage a civil disobedience campaign. Syrian opposition websites reported that five civilians were killed today in the early morning hours. The victims were on their way to the city of Qala'at Madiq when their car was hit by an artillery shell near the town of Khatab, west of Hama. The sources added that residential homes in the area of Hader came under live fire and artillery shelling in an attempt to terrorize the residents. In response, the Free Syrian Army set up a retaliatory ambush targeting a group of four military jeeps. Eight Syrian troops were killed in the ambush. Amid the continuing military operation in Idlib, and amid reports of massacres committed against residents, Syrian security forces stormed several cities and villages. Incoming reports confirmed that Assad's brigades attempted to besiege the town of Harak in Daraa and impose a curfew in its eastern areas, amid sporadic gunfire. In the town of al-Bukamal, Assad's brigades have reportedly carried out acts of robbery and arson, targeting businesses taking part in the strike. Amid the spread of street protests, the Syrian army is facing a new wave of defections. Colonel Ahmad al-Sheikh and a group of officers announced their defection to the Free Syrian Army. Guest, Male #2 (Colonel Ahmad al-Sheikh) I'm Colonel Ahmad Mohammad al-Sheikh, with the 146 brigade, ground forces. I hereby announce my defection from the beast's deadly gangs due to their crimes against the civilians demanding freedom and dignity. Reporter, Male #1 These developments coincided with the second round of the general strike launched last Sunday. The second round of the strike includes powering off mobile phones for four straight hours, shutting down schools, and cutting off main roads leading to city as well as the town's entrances. The third phase of the strike includes wide participation by the education sector, most notably university councils. The fourth stage will target the transportation sector in a bid to paralyze it as well as shut down the main roads between the cities. The fifth stage includes a strike by state employees, which will be followed by the closure of international highways, marking the beginning of the sixth and last phase. The anti-regime residents took to the streets at night in massive demonstrations, following a bloody day that claimed the lives of more than 40 people across various regions in the country. Most of the violence and killing against the demonstrators took place in Idlib Province. http://news.linktv.org/videos/arab-league-agreement-has-little-effect-on-syrias-violence?start=0 Despite an apparent agreement negotiated by the Arab League to bring an end to the Syrian government's violent crackdown on protests, fighting continues in some of the country's major cities. At least 110 people have died in Homs alone. Tue, 08 Nov 2011 08:56:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/arab-league-agreement-has-little-effect-on-syrias-violence Syrian Civil War, Arab League, Syria, Hama, Homs, Bashar al-Assad, Protest, Civilian casualties, Syrian army, Defection WARNING: Graphic Content. Despite an apparent agreement negotiated by the Arab League to bring an end to the Syrian government's violent crackdown on protests, fighting still continues in some of the country's major cities. At least 110 people have died in Homs, where armed opposition elements centered in the Bab Amr area have fought back against security forces, while at least four people were injured in Hama on Tuesday. One well-known Syrian celebrity, activist Fadwa Suleiman, also lent her voice to the demonstrators, saying children were being killed in the crackdown. The United Nations says 3,500 people have died since protests began in March. Al Jazeera's Jamal Elshayyal reports. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-110211?start=37 Damascus says it has reached an agreement with the Arab ministerial delegation over the final paper concerning the situation in Syria, saying the official announcement and details are to be announced at the Arab League HQ in Cairo today. BBC Arabic has more. Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-110211 Protest, Civilian casualties, Israel, Iraq, Iraqi security forces, Syrian Civil War, Arab League, Bahrain Uprising, Occupy Oakland, Occupy movement Presenter, Female # 1 Arab foreign ministers are currently holding a meeting at the headquarters of the Arab League in Cairo to discuss the situation in Syria. Yesterday, Damascus said it reached an agreement with the Arab ministerial delegation over the final paper concerning the situation in Syria, saying the official announcement and details are to be announced at the headquarters of the Arab League in Cairo today. However, sources at the League denied the claim. Meanwhile, Syrian opposition sources reported the deaths of nearly 17 people, most in al-Houla region of Homs, by the gunfire of Syrian security forces that carried out an arrest campaign in the provinces of Daraa, Homs, and Idlib. One officer and a soldier were killed in an ambush set up by gunmen believed to be army defectors in the area of Sarmin in Idlib Province. Reporter, Male # 1 All eyes are on Cairo today. The Syrian government announced having reached an agreement with the Arab ministerial delegation over the final paper, set to be officially announced today in the Egyptian capital. But despite the Syrian announcement, doubts still loom over the true position of the regime. The deputy secretary-general of the Arab League confirmed the League has still not received a response from Syria. Leaks to the media point to disagreements, notably over the site of the proposed dialogue between the opposition and the regime, after the Arab paper suggested Cairo. Internationally, the consensus is one of approval of the Arab initiative. The United States, which renewed its call on Assad to resign, announced via the White House spokesman its welcome of all initiatives that end the violence in Syria. And from Dubai, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed his support for the initiative. At the same time, he confirmed his country's rejection of repeating the Libyan scenario in Syria. Guest, Male # 2 (Sergei Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister) Not the Libyan resolutions, the Yemeni resolutions. And this is the model for responsible behavior by members of the international community who are not thinking about a public relations campaign but about the future of the countries in the region. Reporter, Male # 1 However, the opposition in Syria, represented by the National Council, doubted the regime is serious about the Arab initiative. The National Council demanded Arab ministers freeze the regime's membership at the League and provide international protection to civilians under an Arab umbrella. The council also asked for recognition as the representative of the Syrian revolution and the Syrian people. Dissenters anticipated Cairo's meeting by increasing their protests. They held night demonstrations hours before the meeting of the Arab ministers. Participants repeated chants demanding the Arab League and the international community interfere. The regime responded to these demonstrations by gathering thousands of its supporters in the city of Deir az-Zour. While its soldiers opened fire at an opposition protest in the same city. A number of people were killed and injured across different areas by the gunfire of security forces. Meanwhile, reports indicate soldiers were killed in Idlib Province in clashes with army defectors. Dissenters said Syrian security forces carried out an arrest campaign that reached dozens of people in the provinces of Daraa and Homs. In addition, a number of students were arrested in Kafrinbil in Idlib Province. Wael el-Hajjar, BBC. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-102511?start=229 <p>Saleh's security forces kill 10 Yemenis demanding the president's ouster, general strike continues in Dara'a as Syrian regime is accused of using hospitals for torture, meet Tunisia's victorious Ennahda party, and more.</p> Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-102511 Muammar Gaddafi , Israel, Libya, Yemen Uprising, Syrian Civil War, Tunisian revolution, Ennahda, Tunisia, Palestinian state, Saif al-Islam Presenter, Male # 1 In Syria, the general strike in Dara'a continues for the seventh consecutive day in most of the province's cities and villages. Local Coordination Committees and the Syrian National Council called for a nationwide general strike on Wednesday on the eve of the Arab League delegation's visit to Damascus. This comes as Amnesty International issued a report warning that Syrian authorities have turned hospitals into instruments of repression. Reporter, Male # 2 For the seventh consecutive day, the general strike prevails in the province of Dara'a. Dissenters confirm all stores, with the exception of some restaurants and pharmacies, have shut down and parents in some areas are refraining from sending their children to school. In addition, roads have been blocked off with stones as shown here in the town of al-Salamein. And just as Dara'a sparked the intifada, or uprising, in Syria nearly seven months ago, the strike was seized upon by the Syrian Local Coordination Committees and the National Council, which was formed by the opposition. They called for a general strike on Wednesday to coincide with the visit of the Arab League's delegation to Damascus. Opposition members confirm the importance of resorting to a strike, believing civil disobedience could lead the protest movement in the country to a different phase. These developments come as protests continue in Syria with school students taking to the street to express their support for the opposition's mobilization, as shown here in the town of al-Quriya in Deir az-Zour province. The rapidly escalating events in Syria, the daily killings and the death of additional protestors by the gunfire of security forces pushed rights groups to sound the alarm. Amnesty International said the Syrian regime has turned hospitals into tools of repression, used to identify the injured. Amnesty researcher Cilina Nasser called a doctor who fled Syria. Guest, Female # 1 (Cilina Nasser, Amnesty International) What are the difficulties facing doctors treating the injured? Guest, Male # 3 There are too many injured people. If an injured person comes and identifies themselves then they are known to the authorities. Guest, Female # 1 (Cilina Nasser, Amnesty International) Why can't the injured go to government-run hospitals? Why? Guest, Male # 3 By merely entering the hospital they will get arrested. Government-run hospitals are very tense. Doctors feel restricted and under surveillance. They can't even talk to the patients. Reporter, Male # 2 These images broadcast on the private pro-regime al-Dunya channel show what Amnesty International says is the beating of an injured person by a worker at the hospital. Many injured individuals in Syria are now avoiding going to government hospitals; instead, they are using the instructions of doctors abroad to treat themselves. Guest, Male # 4 If there's blood, if blood is spurting, use your finger to place pressure on it. Reporter, Male # 2 As for some private clinics receiving the injured, they are also prone to security persecution and the arrest of their staff. The Syrian government denies allegations of systematic torture in Syria while its media organizations are accusing armed terrorist gangs of carrying out additional attacks and killings of Syrian soldiers and civilians. Wael el-Hajjar, BBC. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-102411?start=695 The US State Department has pulled its ambassador to Syria, Robert Ford, due to new threats against his personal safety. Ford has been attacked by Syrian regime loyalists while approaching protest sites or meeting with opposition members. Mon, 24 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-102411 Palestinian prisoners in Israel, Palestinian National Authority, Gilad Shalit, Mahmoud Abbas, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Fatah, Prisoner exchange, Hamas, Israeli–Palestinian conflict Presenter, Female # 1 The US State Department confirmed it has pulled its ambassador to Syria, Robert Ford, due to new threats against his personal safety in Syria. State Department Deputy Spokesman Mark Toner said Ford's return depends on the security situation on the ground. Ford has numerously been attacked by Syrian regime loyalists while approaching protest sites or meeting with opposition members, which Damascus considers interference in its internal affairs. Reporter, Male #1 The US State Department stated that "credible threats against his personal safety in Syria" was the reason for recalling its ambassador from Damascus. The US State Department spokesman did not specify a timeframe for the ambassador's return but confirmed it depends on the security situation in Syria. Ambassador Robert Ford presented his credentials to Damascus in January, 2011 after a five year absence of a US ambassador from Damascus. But he quickly angered the Syrian regime for publicly visiting Syrian cities swept by the protest movement and violence, and for meeting with demonstrators and opposition members. This led Damascus to accuse him of fueling violence in the country. Guest, Male # 2 The British ambassador did not go, nor did the German, Austrian, Swiss ambassadors, nor any others. This is a special case related to the American policy towards us and especially this person's charisma because he began interfering and making all citizens feel like he was insulting the Syrian street. Reporter, Male # 1 At the time, protestors loyal to the Syrian president attacked the American embassy and burned the American flag. On September 6, 2011, Ford strongly attacked the Syrian regime on Facebook, condemning the pretexts used by Syrian authorities to crack down on protestors. He seemed to be supporting the opposition and opposing the regime. At the end of September, President Bashar al-Assad's loyalists gathered in front of a Syrian opposition bureau in Damascus that Ford was visiting. They threw tomatoes and eggs at the US embassy car, leading Washington to accuse the regime in Damascus of incitement against Ambassador Ford. The ambassador also led a group of ambassadors to the mourning ceremony of Ghiath Matar in Daraya. Matar was an activist who was arrested and tortured to death after giving flowers to members of the Syrian army; it seems his actions provoked Damascus. Guest, Male # 2 The American story is that the US is leading a very dangerous project, and according to well-known statements, they are done with Libya and now it is Syria's turn. This is very dangerous and for this reason, we can say that the Syrian reaction has been minimal. Reporter, Male #1 The US and other Western countries have called on Assad to resign after loosing his "legitimacy as Syria's president." They tried to impose harsh sanctions on him at the Security Council but China and Russia's interference prevented them from doing so. Pulling the US ambassador from Damascus at this particular moment could mean other American measures are being planned against Bashar al-Assad's regime. Other ambassadors could also later be recalled under different pretexts. The situation in Syria presents the world with difficult challenges, between keeping quiet on the events in Syria or supporting the street demanding freedom, justice, and democracy. Hayan Yaaqoub, BBC. Presenter, Female # 1 On the ground, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that five civilians were killed in Homs in the center of the country by the security forces' gunfire. The Observatory said dozens of armored vehicles headed to the Baba Amr neighborhood in Homs and fired heavily. Dissenters reported soldiers are encircling a southern town near Daraa, which has been witnessing a strike for days. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083011?start=1340 <p>Gaddafi forces given four days to surrender, seven killed and hundreds arrested as Syrian crackdown continues, Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Fitr, and more.</p> Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083011 Eid ul-Fitr, Israel, Protest, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Israel Defense Forces, Jerusalem, West Bank, Egypt, Bashar al-Assad Presenter, Male #1 This evening we will discuss the Syrian issue with Mr. Ammar Waqqaf, member of the British Syrian Society here in the UK, who has previously been on our show, representing the Syrian regime's loyalists. And Mr. Marik al-Abdeh, chief editor of opposition TV network Barada, who represents the voice of the opposition. Presenter, Male #1 Mr. Marik, does the fact that the regime has a military structure make it reliant on a military solution? Is the opposition hoping for a military coup or military defections? Guest, Male #2 (Mr. Malik al-Abdeh, Opposition Barada TV Chief Editor) Well, so far there haven't been any major defections and there are a number of reasons for this, including the sectarian structure. Meaning, this regime has a sectarian facet, which prevents the kinds of defections we saw in Libya. Major defections took place in Libya in the first few weeks of the revolution there. The sectarian element gives the regime something to hold on to and that's one aspect. Presenter, Male #1 But let's be honest when we talk about the sectarian element in the sense that the Alawite sect is holding on to this regime, doesn't this sect have reasons for doing so? Especially since the opposition's speech may prompt it to stick to the regime even more? Guest, Male #2 No, on the contrary. First, let's look at the opposition over the past 11 years, from when Bashar first took power until today. The opposition chose the kind of language that calls for unity between all Syrians, equality of rights and responsibilities? Presenter, Male #1 That's true; your first slogan was "unity, unity and unity." Guest, Male #2 Yes, unity; and this was reflected after the revolution started. One Friday was named the "Friday of Saleh al-Ali," referring to the great Alawites. In addition, there was the "Friday of Azadi," addressing the Kurds, and the "Great Friday" for the Christians. So I don't believe that there has been any speech against the Alawite sect, quite the contrary. Presenter, Male #1 Mr. Ammar, on the subject of morality, in our previous interview I remember you talking about accountability, the corruption in the authority, and the paralysis of this authority to act. Despite all of that, you still side with this authority. Guest, Male #3 First of all, please allow me to briefly explain some misunderstandings. First, the majority of people are with the Syrian government. Presenter, Male #1 But who decides that? Guest, Male #3 The majority itself decided that. On June 21, when nearly seven or eight million people took to the street, they vowed their loyalty to the regime. Presenter, Male #1 Well, I think if security forces stopped firing at people, then 20 million could take to the street. We don't know. Guest, Male #3 Well, we don't know. Presenter, Male #1 In any case, what about the issue of accountability? Guest, Male #3 No, we genuinely believe that the majority of people are in favor of the regime reforming itself. As for the sectarian question, the idea that sectarianism is protecting the regime is wrong. This issue was not incited by the regime. It was incited by the street. Allow me to explain the political issue behind this issue. There are numerous regional players who are interested in Syrian affairs and in using the Syrian issue for their own interests. One of those players is anyone interested in the Shiite-Sunni issue in the region and they are waging such a battle. These people need to turn Syria into the playground for such a struggle. The sectarian issue is not the basis of the conflict but is instead being issued to fuel a specific dispute or conflict. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/military-assault-continues-in-latakia?start=0 Syria's military assault on the port city of Latakia has continued into a fourth day. Thousands of people have been forced out of the al-Ramel Palestinian refugee camp, and activists say thousands of people have been rounded up by the army and are being held in a sports stadium. Tue, 16 Aug 2011 08:39:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/military-assault-continues-in-latakia Latakia, Syria, Palestine refugee camps, Bashar al-Assad, Syrian army, Syrian Civil War, Civilian casualties, Protest, Offensive (military), Military of Syria Syria's military assault on the port city of Latakia has continued into a fourth day. Thousands of people have been forced out of the al-Ramel Palestinian refugee camp. It's been a focus for protests since the Syrian uprising began. Southern and southeastern neighbourhoods were also targeted, and activists say thousands of people were detained by the army. Al Jazeera's Nisreen el-Shamayleh has the latest developments from Ramtha, on the Syria-Jordanian border. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081611?start=35 The Syrian army has withdrawn from Dayr az-Zawr, but regime security forces are continuing crackdowns against "armed terrorist groups" in Latakia and Homs. Lebanon's New TV has this report. Tue, 16 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081611 Protest, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Ali Abdullah Saleh, South Sudan, Kuwait, Israel Defense Forces, Yemen, Syria, Bahrain Presenter, Female # 1 The Syrian army withdrew from Dayr az-Zawr, while an official source confirmed to SANA news agency the continued pursuit of what he described as "armed terrorist groups" in Latakia, as raids continue in the Bayadah and Siba'a neighborhoods of Homs. Reporter, Female #2 The Syrian army left its barracks in Dayr az-Zawr, leaving the city from its southern and northeastern entrances, as confirmed by a military official to journalists who entered the city as part of a media tour organized by the Ministry of Information. The official said the army entered Dayr az-Zawr in response to a call by the residents, adding that the military carried out an exceptional and swift operation to restore security and stability in the city. He pointed out that soldiers managed to arrest gunmen and seize explosive devices and mines. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed that some Latakia neighborhoods witnessed heavy gunfire in the early morning. The observatory said the raid and military operations in Latakia have cost 34 lives in the past four days, including that of a two-year-old girl who was killed amid a mass flight from the city. As for the official Syrian narrative, it confirmed through a military source to SANA news agency, that law enforcement forces continue to remove roadblocks set up by the armed terrorist groups along the crossroads and alleys, notably in al-Ramel al-Janoubi neighborhood. In addition, the source said members of these groups were arrested and the explosive devices they planted in the neighborhood were dismantled. Law enforcement forces also seized weapons. The source confirmed that some gunmen fled from al-Ramel al-Janoubi to nearby towns, opened fire, and threw sticks of dynamite, which led to a number of injuries. That same source said security forces are still tracking down the armed men in order to restore calm to the city. On the other hand, videos were uploaded online, showing closed stores in Souk al-Masquf in Homs, confirming it as a show of solidarity with Bab el-Siba'a and al-Bayadah. Those two neighborhoods have witnessed gunfire, wide-scale arrest campaigns, and raids. This comes as approximately 100 lawyers held a silent protest at the lawyers' chamber in the Justice Palace in the eastern al-Raqqa. They held banners calling on the army to leave the cities and demanded a fair and impartial judiciary. Politically, London said al-Assad lost his remaining legitimacy as Human Right Watch demanded the European Union freeze the assets of the Syrian National Oil Company, the Syrian National Gas Company, and the Central Bank of Syria until President Bashar al-Assad ends what the organization described as serious human rights violations. http://news.linktv.org/videos/syria-palestinian-refugee-camp-in-latakia-under-fire?start=0 A spokesperson for the UN agency handling Palestinian refugees says the Syrian army has fired at a refugee camp in the city of Latakia. He condemns the violence and calls for immediate access to the site. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 09:23:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/syria-palestinian-refugee-camp-in-latakia-under-fire Latakia, Syria, Palestinian Refugees, Syrian army, Military of Syria, Refugee camp, UNRWA, United Nations, Al Jazeera English Chris Gunness, a spokesman for the UN agency handling Palestinian refugees says the Syrian army has fired at a refugee camp in the city of Latakia. He condemns the violence and calls for immediate access to the site. ---- Syria: Palestinian Refugee Camp in Latakia 'Under Fire' http://news.linktv.org/videos/international-condemnation-of-syrian-crackdown-grows?start=0 Syria has intensified its crackdown on opposition protesters despite growing international pressure. This morning, Syrian tanks and gunboats reportedly shelled the main Mediterranean port city of Latakia, killing one person and bringing the total dead to at least 28 since government forces moved into the city on Saturday. The violence follows massive demonstrations on Friday in which tens of thousands of people turned out to protest the Assad regime. On Saturday, a large crowd of mourners gathered in Douma, a suburb of the capital Damascus, for the funerals of four protesters who activists say were killed by security forces. For more information, Democracy Now! speaks with Haitham Maleh, a leading human rights attorney in Syria who was released from prison earlier this year. Also interviewed is his son Iyas Maleh, a Syrian human rights activist. <a title="Democracy Now!" href="http://youtu.be/HgYqr-5Mml4" target="_blank">Watch part two</a>.<a title="Democracy Now!" href="http://youtu.be/HgYqr-5Mml4" target="_blank"><br /></a> Mon, 15 Aug 2011 09:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/international-condemnation-of-syrian-crackdown-grows Latakia, Syria, Protest, Bashar al-Assad, Damascus, Military of Syria, Syrian army, Gunboat, Tank, Port Syria has intensified its crackdown on opposition protesters despite growing international pressure. This morning, Syrian tanks and gunboats reportedly shelled the main Mediterranean port city of Latakia, killing one person and bringing the total dead to at least 28 since government forces moved into the city on Saturday. The violence follows massive demonstrations on Friday in which tens of thousands of people turned out to protest the Assad regime. On Saturday, a large crowd of mourners gathered in Douma, a suburb of the capital Damascus, for the funerals of four protesters who activists say were killed by security forces. For more information, Democracy Now! speaks with Haitham Maleh, a leading human rights attorney in Syria who was released from prison earlier this year. Also interviewed is his son Iyas Maleh, a Syrian human rights activist. http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-troops-shell-the-port-of-latakia?start=0 Syrian forces reportedly shelled the port of Latakia for the third consecutive day on Monday. Anti-government activists posted amateur footage which they said showed tanks patrolling the city. The number of casualties was unknown. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 08:36:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-troops-shell-the-port-of-latakia Latakia, Syria, Syrian Civil War, Bashar al-Assad, Syrian army, Civilian casualties, Protest, Military of Syria, Tank, Homs Syrian forces reportedly shelled the port of Latakia for the third consecutive day on Monday. Anti-government activists posted amateur footage which they said showed tanks patrolling the city. The number of casualties was unknown. On Sunday, Damascus denied that any shelling had taken place. The opposition also says the military has again fired on protesters in Homs, Syria's third-largest city. Government officials say troops are tackling "armed gangs" -- protesters against President Bashar al-Assad's rule deny that claim. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081511?start=35 <p>A wave of deadly explosions rock Iraqi cities, Human Rights Watch blames all sides for crisis in Somalia, Tunisians take to the streets to denounce the transitional government, and more.</p> Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081511 Protest, Israel, 2011 Israel protests, Tunisia, Tent city, Latakia, India, Egypt, Somalia, Pakistan Presenter, Male # 1 The Syrian army renewed its shelling of several neighborhoods in Latakia, stormed the Palestinian camp of al-Ramel, and the city of Hula in Homs province. Meanwhile, the Syrian Arab News Agency, SANA, denies that Syrian security forces used gunboats to shell Latakia. Reporter, Female # 1 For the third consecutive day, the Syrian scene is of the shelling of Latakia neighborhoods, most notably al-Ramel al-Janoubi, considered one the poorest area in the city. In addition, the Palestinian al-Ramel camp, which is home to 10,000 refugees, and al-Sakanturi were shelled. The outcome was the killing of civilians, including a woman on board a bus carrying a family fleeing al-Sakanturi. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed the Syrian army renewed its shelling of several areas in the city and stormed al-Ramel camp. The observatory indicated that security forces sealed off the city's Ugarit Square and set up checkpoints, asking for identification cards and searching cars, and indicated that the number of detainees has exceeded 300 so far. The observatory confirmed that a convoy of tanks, armored vehicles, and personnel carriers entered the area of al-Hula in Homs province and began a wide-scale arrest campaign. And while rights organizations say the Syrian regime used gunships to shell Latakia, a high-ranking Syrian military official categorically denied any naval bombardment of the al-Ramel al-Janoubi neighborhood in the city. SANA confirmed that security forces are pursuing armed men terrorizing citizens and sabotaging private and public properties. It added that gunmen are using machine guns and explosives from behind barricades and are shooting from rooftops. It indicated that two members of a security unit were killed and 14 were injured while carrying out their duties. Presenter, Male # 2 A Syrian military source denied claims of a naval bombardment of al-Ramel al-Janoubi neighborhood in Latakia as reported by media outlets inciting unrest. The source confirmed the news is completely baseless, adding that gunboats were on a routine patrol to protect the coast and prevent weapons' smuggling into the country, as it has occurred in other areas. Guest, Male # 3 I am a resident of the Palestinian al-Ramel camp and I deny and condemn all these allegations. There are some armed men who are trying to kill soldiers. Guest, Male # 5 They want freedom, so they set up checkpoints. They think this is an emirate. They have weapons and are shooting from rooftops. They are firing at the army. Reporter, Female # 1 The Syrian Observatory announced that the army stormed a number of areas in Hama's countryside amid heavy gunfire and launched an arrest campaign. Syrian state-run TV broadcast videos of Hama, confirming that the city is regaining vitality and that official business has resumed. Politically, the Palestine Liberation Organization issued a statement denouncing the storming of al-Ramel camp in Latakia and the displacement of its residents. UNRWA announced that over 5,000 refugees fled the camp due to the shelling and demanded Damascus allow it to enter the camp. In addition, Jordanian Prime Minister Maaruf al-Bakhit called on his Syrian counterpart Adel Safar to immediately put an end to the violence in Syria and to begin implementing reforms and resort to dialogue. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081011?start=38 <p>Iraqi cleric al-Sadr renews warning to US forces in the country, Bahrain's February 14 Movement call for another "self-determination" march, Syrian army withdraws from Hama as crackdown continues elsewhere, and more.</p> Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081011 Protest, Syria, Iraq, Bahrain, Syrian Civil War, Muqtada al-Sadr, Gaza, Libya, Iraqi Kurdistan, Israel Presenter, Male #1 Our BBC correspondent in Syria reported that Syrian forces began to withdraw from the city of Ariha in the countryside of Idlib. This comes after the Syrian forces deployed in the city of Hama withdrew this morning. The withdrawals began after Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu visited the Syrian capital yesterday. He requested the Syrian leadership pull the army out of the Syrian cities and release the detainees. Meanwhile, the death toll from the army's security operations yesterday rose to 21, including 17 in the city of Deir az-Zour alone. Reporter, Male #2 Rif Damascus is still the platform for raids and arrests, according to human rights activists. Phone lines were cut off in Zamalka, Arbeen, Hamouria, and Saqba, which witnessed a campaign of arrests and confiscations of motorcycles starting at dawn after yesterday's protests. In Deir az-Zour, the death toll rose to at least 21. Tanks are besieging the area around the city's airport and the neighborhoods of Jibili, al-Muwathafin, and Sheikh Yasin. Rights activists say that the tanks are preparing for broad military operations as strong explosions were heard in the region. Rights activists said that Syrian forces began a military operation in Idlib province and a wide-scale military operation in the city of Sarmin using heavy machineguns and wounding at least ten people. Meanwhile, nighttime protests continue after Ramadan's Taraweeh prayers in various areas, such as the Tarifat neighborhood of Aleppo, condemning the regime and the security forces' actions. Several protests occurred after the Fajr prayer, such as this demonstration in al-Muadhamiya in the suburb of Damascus, and in Homs, and even at al-Fateh Mosque in Hama. The opposition says that security forces and the shabeha are in tanks and armored trucks, and are on their way to besiege the city of Taftanaz in Idlib, which was subject to a military raid yesterday. However, our BBC correspondent who arrived in Hama for a media tour organized by the authorities, said that he saw military vehicles leaving Hama and headed to their bases, as the Syrian military officers had informed him. Guest, Male #3 (Essaf Aboud, BBC Correspondent in Hama) Seventy vehicles, including armored vehicles and tanks mounted on trucks were on the Homs international highway. When we asked the brigadier-general, the commander of the military unit, where these military vehicles carrying soldiers were headed, he said that they were returning to their bases. Reporter, Male #2 While media networks say that these images spreading online show the army passing by a Syrian region, the opposition says the images are of the army during its operations in al-Bukamal. Many questions were raised around these images, which are horrific but do not seem to be of live events. All of these developments come after the Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu visited Damascus and held talks for one day. The Syrian president issued a statement after the meeting, affirming the regime's right to grapple with armed terrorist groups, which he says are active in Syria. Hayan Aqoub, BBC. Presenter, Male #1 Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan expected the situation to calm down and the violence to end in Syria within ten to fifteen days. Erdogan said at a press conference in Ankara that the Syrian government is turning its guns on its people. He also indicated that the Turkish ambassador in Syria visited Hama and reported that the tanks started to leave the city.