Syrian unrest: 'Many deaths' as army attacks Hama

Gerald · 08-02-11, 08:25 AM

Syrian forces are pushing towards the centre of the town of Hama as they continue an offensive in which scores of people have died.

Residents told the BBC many people were fleeing to nearby villages, believing the army would gain full control.

On Monday, security forces cracked down on protests in towns around Syria, often after prayers on the first day of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

The UN Security Council is set to resume discussions on the crisis.

Russia has until now resisted agreeing to a resolution condemning the violence, but has indicated that it could back a lesser statement.

Syrian Defence Minister Ali Habib was among five members of President Bashar al-Assad's government targeted by European Union asset freezes and travel bans, the EU said on Tuesday.

And Italy has recalled its ambassador to Syria for consultations, citing the "horrible repression" of citizens.

Rights groups say around 140 people have been killed by the authorities since Sunday, most of them in Hama.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-14367773

Note: Update Record, 2 August 2011 Last updated at 09:34 GMT

08-02-11, 08:25 AM	#9
Gerald SUBSIM Newsman Join Date: May 2008 Location: Close to sea Posts: 24,254 Downloads: 553 Uploads: 0	Syria forces in Hama push as crackdown continues Syrian forces are pushing towards the centre of the town of Hama as they continue an offensive in which scores of people have died. Residents told the BBC many people were fleeing to nearby villages, believing the army would gain full control. On Monday, security forces cracked down on protests in towns around Syria, often after prayers on the first day of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. The UN Security Council is set to resume discussions on the crisis. Russia has until now resisted agreeing to a resolution condemning the violence, but has indicated that it could back a lesser statement. Syrian Defence Minister Ali Habib was among five members of President Bashar al-Assad's government targeted by European Union asset freezes and travel bans, the EU said on Tuesday. And Italy has recalled its ambassador to Syria for consultations, citing the "horrible repression" of citizens. Rights groups say around 140 people have been killed by the authorities since Sunday, most of them in Hama. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-14367773 Note: Update Record, 2 August 2011 Last updated at 09:34 GMT __________________ Nothing in life is to be feard,it is only to be understood. Marie Curie