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Syria: Regime rejects Arab League call for peacekeepers - live updates Syria: Regime rejects Arab League call for peacekeepers - live updates
(40 minutes later)
5.01pm: Syrians living in areas hit by conflict are now struggling to find even basic foodstuffs, a Damascus-based spokesman for the International Committee of the Red Cross said today.
"The situation has been increasingly violent and it hasn't been easy for people to do anything. The streets are empty, people can't go anywhere to buy food. There is even a problem getting bread, " the ICRC's Saleh Dabbakeh told Reuters by telephone.
Fighting has also made access to hard-hit areas such as the Baba Amro district of Homs nearly impossible for local Syrian Red Crescent workers, Dabbakeh said.
4.52pm: The Syrian representative, Bashar Jaafari, told the general assembly about recent bomb attacks in Syria which he blamed on al-Qaida. He also said that "armed groups" were assassinating people.
Syria, he said, has suffered thousands of innocent victims as the price of defending its internal security. "The state has exclusive responsibility for defending security in its national territory."
The Arab League's decision to support the opposition amounts to supporting terrorism, he added, also calling on other countries not to give help to the opposition.
4.34pm: UN human rights chief Navi Pillay, addressing the general assembly, said the failure of the security council resolution on Syria "appears to have emboldened the Syrian government".
Crimes against humanity are "likely" to have been committed, she said, and hospitals have been used as detention and torture facilities.
There have been "gross, widespread and systematic human rights violations" and the Syrian government has "manifestly failed to protect its population," she continued.
Pillay added that her office is ready to provide "appropriate assistance" if requested by the Arab League.
3.51pm: In recent days, the London twang of Syrian activist Danny Abdul Dayem has become one of the most-heard voices from Homs.3.51pm: In recent days, the London twang of Syrian activist Danny Abdul Dayem has become one of the most-heard voices from Homs.
In this video, CNN films inside his family's home in Cairo where his father and mother wait for news of his safety. He is reported to have now left Syria for Lebanon.In this video, CNN films inside his family's home in Cairo where his father and mother wait for news of his safety. He is reported to have now left Syria for Lebanon.
3.49pm: The UN general assembly has begun discussion of Syria. You can watch the debate here via a live feed.3.49pm: The UN general assembly has begun discussion of Syria. You can watch the debate here via a live feed.
The Syrian delegation has been objecting to what it calls "illegal procedures" in the general assembly.The Syrian delegation has been objecting to what it calls "illegal procedures" in the general assembly.
3.37pm: Iran has rejected as "sheer lies" accusations that it was involved in a bomb attack on the Israeli embassy in India.3.37pm: Iran has rejected as "sheer lies" accusations that it was involved in a bomb attack on the Israeli embassy in India.
The official IRNA news agency quoted the Islamic Republic's ambassador to Delhi, Mehdi Nabizadeh, as saying:The official IRNA news agency quoted the Islamic Republic's ambassador to Delhi, Mehdi Nabizadeh, as saying:

Any terrorist attack is condemned (by Iran) and we strongly reject the untrue comments by an Israeli official. These accusations are untrue and sheer lies, like previous times.
Any terrorist attack is condemned (by Iran) and we strongly reject the untrue comments by an Israeli official. These accusations are untrue and sheer lies, like previous times.
Earlier the Israeli prime minister, Binyamin Netanyahu, accused Iran of responsibility for two car bombs that targeted Israeli diplomats in India and Georgia.Earlier the Israeli prime minister, Binyamin Netanyahu, accused Iran of responsibility for two car bombs that targeted Israeli diplomats in India and Georgia.
3.00pm: What happens when you send an award-winning novelist to a war-torn country?3.00pm: What happens when you send an award-winning novelist to a war-torn country?
Francophone readers will be able to see for themselves today as Le Monde publishes the first in a series of dispatches written from Syria by the Goncourt-winning Jonathan Littell. Here's a flavour- but I'm afraid I don't have the linguistic stamina to go through the full piece.Francophone readers will be able to see for themselves today as Le Monde publishes the first in a series of dispatches written from Syria by the Goncourt-winning Jonathan Littell. Here's a flavour- but I'm afraid I don't have the linguistic stamina to go through the full piece.
Littell arrives first in the western town of al-Qusayr, which an activist will later tell him is crucial to the regime. "If they lose al-Qusayr, they lose the whole border," he is told. However, he writes, when he gets there, the Syrian army no longer seems in control of the town.Littell arrives first in the western town of al-Qusayr, which an activist will later tell him is crucial to the regime. "If they lose al-Qusayr, they lose the whole border," he is told. However, he writes, when he gets there, the Syrian army no longer seems in control of the town.
Apart from the roadblocks on the outskirts and the tanks which have been more or less hidden because of the Arab League agreement, he writes, the army only really holds the town hall and the hospital, in the centre.Apart from the roadblocks on the outskirts and the tanks which have been more or less hidden because of the Arab League agreement, he writes, the army only really holds the town hall and the hospital, in the centre.

I will go past the town hall several times, a large, Soviet-style, four-storey building with smashed windows and sandbags on the roof protecting the snipers' nests. Until recently, these snipers were shooting regularly into the street, especially in the evening; but, after an attack which allowed them to get inside the building, the FSA did a deal with the commander and his men are left in peace.
I will go past the town hall several times, a large, Soviet-style, four-storey building with smashed windows and sandbags on the roof protecting the snipers' nests. Until recently, these snipers were shooting regularly into the street, especially in the evening; but, after an attack which allowed them to get inside the building, the FSA did a deal with the commander and his men are left in peace.
In fact, the FSA get around freely in the town, sometimes in pick-ups armed with heavy machine guns and bearing on the doors the emblem of the Al-Farouk battalion, the unit in charge of the zone. Every evening, when civilians gather in the street to protest against the regime, dozens of armed FSA soldiers position themselves at the crossroads in order to protect them.In fact, the FSA get around freely in the town, sometimes in pick-ups armed with heavy machine guns and bearing on the doors the emblem of the Al-Farouk battalion, the unit in charge of the zone. Every evening, when civilians gather in the street to protest against the regime, dozens of armed FSA soldiers position themselves at the crossroads in order to protect them.
"We intervene rarely," explains an officer I meet the following day with about 15 of his men on a farm. "The roadblocks stay entrenched and don't bother us. We only attack when the regular army tries to mount an operation.""We intervene rarely," explains an officer I meet the following day with about 15 of his men on a farm. "The roadblocks stay entrenched and don't bother us. We only attack when the regular army tries to mount an operation."
2.50pm: The shelling of Baba Amr continues, according to this video, apparently filmed today and posted by the LCC network of activists.2.50pm: The shelling of Baba Amr continues, according to this video, apparently filmed today and posted by the LCC network of activists.
There have also been clashes reported in the central town of Rastan, where rebel forces are said to have repelled a push by government tanks. Quoting the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, AP writes that the clashes marked the latest stage in a conflict that looks to be edging ever closer to civil war.There have also been clashes reported in the central town of Rastan, where rebel forces are said to have repelled a push by government tanks. Quoting the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, AP writes that the clashes marked the latest stage in a conflict that looks to be edging ever closer to civil war.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the attempt by regime forces to storm Rastan in the restive central province of Homs left at least three soldiers dead. Rastan has been held by the rebels since late January.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the attempt by regime forces to storm Rastan in the restive central province of Homs left at least three soldiers dead. Rastan has been held by the rebels since late January.
The town was taken by defectors twice in the past only to be retaken by Syrian troops. It is the hometown of former Defense Minister Mustapha Tlass, who held the post for more than three decades, mostly under Assad's father and predecessor, the late Hafez Assad.The town was taken by defectors twice in the past only to be retaken by Syrian troops. It is the hometown of former Defense Minister Mustapha Tlass, who held the post for more than three decades, mostly under Assad's father and predecessor, the late Hafez Assad.
2.43pm: Security forces in Bahrain have fired tear gas and stun grenades at protesters trying to occupy a landmark square in the nation's capital, AP reports.2.43pm: Security forces in Bahrain have fired tear gas and stun grenades at protesters trying to occupy a landmark square in the nation's capital, AP reports.
Monday's march by thousands of opposition supporters to Manama's Pearl Square is the largest attempt in months to retake the central roundabout that served as the epicenter of weeks of protests last year by Bahrain's Shiite majority against the ruling Sunni dynasty.Monday's march by thousands of opposition supporters to Manama's Pearl Square is the largest attempt in months to retake the central roundabout that served as the epicenter of weeks of protests last year by Bahrain's Shiite majority against the ruling Sunni dynasty.
The government has deployed thousands of security forces to prevent the opposition from staging a mass rally to mark Tuesday's one-year of the revolt.
Bahrain imposed martial law in March to quell the protests. Emergency rule was lifted in June, but clashes still occur on an almost daily basis.		The government has deployed thousands of security forces to prevent the opposition from staging a mass rally to mark Tuesday's one-year of the revolt.
Bahrain imposed martial law in March to quell the protests. Emergency rule was lifted in June, but clashes still occur on an almost daily basis.
Said Yousif Almuhafda of the Bahrain Center for Human Rights has Tweeted the following from the march:Said Yousif Almuhafda of the Bahrain Center for Human Rights has Tweeted the following from the march:
ً#BahrainNow we're being shot with toxic gases &sound grenades, tens of women and children are suffocating and they're following us"ً#BahrainNow we're being shot with toxic gases &sound grenades, tens of women and children are suffocating and they're following us"
— S.YousifAlmuhafda (@SAIDYOUSIF) February 13, 2012— S.YousifAlmuhafda (@SAIDYOUSIF) February 13, 2012
Even those inside their cars suffocated by the policy of shooting toxic gases randomly ‏#Bahraintwitpic.com/8jdl4eEven those inside their cars suffocated by the policy of shooting toxic gases randomly ‏#Bahraintwitpic.com/8jdl4e
— S.YousifAlmuhafda (@SAIDYOUSIF) February 13, 2012— S.YousifAlmuhafda (@SAIDYOUSIF) February 13, 2012
2.33pm: Britain will not provide troops for a peacekeeping mission in Syria, foreign office minister Alistair Burt has told the BBC.2.33pm: Britain will not provide troops for a peacekeeping mission in Syria, foreign office minister Alistair Burt has told the BBC.
"We believe that the forces that are deployed should not be Western and we would look to Arab League and other countries to make up a peacekeeping force," he said on Radio 4's The World At One."We believe that the forces that are deployed should not be Western and we would look to Arab League and other countries to make up a peacekeeping force," he said on Radio 4's The World At One.
Burt added that the UK wanted to provide practical support to people documenting human rights abuses in Syria: "We want to make sure that those documenting these events have the right equipment to do so, so that those who are perpetrating violence know they are being monitored and will be brought to justice."Burt added that the UK wanted to provide practical support to people documenting human rights abuses in Syria: "We want to make sure that those documenting these events have the right equipment to do so, so that those who are perpetrating violence know they are being monitored and will be brought to justice."
2.27pm: Resistance is gathering steam in the rural areas surrounding the city of Homs, reports the Guardian's Martin Chulov in Syria.2.27pm: Resistance is gathering steam in the rural areas surrounding the city of Homs, reports the Guardian's Martin Chulov in Syria.
Speaking in a phone interview, Martin says that while the city itself has been "battered into submission" by 10 days of bombardment, the mood is different in the towns and villages around it.Speaking in a phone interview, Martin says that while the city itself has been "battered into submission" by 10 days of bombardment, the mood is different in the towns and villages around it.

If you get out into the hinterland around Homs, the foresaken rural villages and towns, there is an insurgency that is gathering steam. Just today we saw 15 more defectors arrive from Damascus. Yesterday there was another 15. We understand that two more are on their way having left their units in Damascus yesterday afternoon.
If you get out into the hinterland around Homs, the foresaken rural villages and towns, there is an insurgency that is gathering steam. Just today we saw 15 more defectors arrive from Damascus. Yesterday there was another 15. We understand that two more are on their way having left their units in Damascus yesterday afternoon.
The Free Syria Army does rule the roost in a lot of these towns. The Syrian army itself is on the outskirts. The tanks don't enter town. That's not to say this situation is going to last. But for now the insurgency here does control some parts of the...towns and villages. It does have freedom of movement around and its numbers are swelling on a daily basis.The Free Syria Army does rule the roost in a lot of these towns. The Syrian army itself is on the outskirts. The tanks don't enter town. That's not to say this situation is going to last. But for now the insurgency here does control some parts of the...towns and villages. It does have freedom of movement around and its numbers are swelling on a daily basis.
It is very hard to know for sure what is going on inside Homs due to an almost total break-down in communications- a situation which shows signs of worsening, Martin says.It is very hard to know for sure what is going on inside Homs due to an almost total break-down in communications- a situation which shows signs of worsening, Martin says.

The siege of Homs has been tightened. The city itself has been all but sealed off, especially to the south and west where the Free Syria Army have been trying to send reinforcements for two or three days now and haven't been able to get through. All the paths that they've used have been blocked off and they're looking for new ways to get into the city.
The siege of Homs has been tightened. The city itself has been all but sealed off, especially to the south and west where the Free Syria Army have been trying to send reinforcements for two or three days now and haven't been able to get through. All the paths that they've used have been blocked off and they're looking for new ways to get into the city.
Martin Chulov in Syria (mp3)

It's been heavily damaged, especially Bab Amr and Al Khalidiyeh, the two rebel-held areas that have been targeted by Syrian government artillery over the last 10 days...The city itself seems to be deprived of electricity. It has no internet access at all. The water supplies are very poor. Some humanitarian aid did get in yesterday. We understand that the authorities in Damascus are allowing more in today and possibly tomorrow.

Martin Chulov in Syria (mp3)

It's been heavily damaged, especially Bab Amr and Al Khalidiyeh, the two rebel-held areas that have been targeted by Syrian government artillery over the last 10 days...The city itself seems to be deprived of electricity. It has no internet access at all. The water supplies are very poor. Some humanitarian aid did get in yesterday. We understand that the authorities in Damascus are allowing more in today and possibly tomorrow.

Even now, though, locals fear the worst is yet to come. Martin said:Even now, though, locals fear the worst is yet to come. Martin said:

We...have to bear in mind that, no matter how brutal the bombardment has been, the Syrian army have not used the full range of their capabilities in Bab Amr or in Al Khalidiyeh. We haven't seen air strikes; we haven't seen heavy artillery. It's been mostly mortars, light rockets. We're told some tank rounds but I haven't been able to confirm that. They do have a lot more up their sleeves should they choose to use it.
We...have to bear in mind that, no matter how brutal the bombardment has been, the Syrian army have not used the full range of their capabilities in Bab Amr or in Al Khalidiyeh. We haven't seen air strikes; we haven't seen heavy artillery. It's been mostly mortars, light rockets. We're told some tank rounds but I haven't been able to confirm that. They do have a lot more up their sleeves should they choose to use it.
As for the outlying areas, spreading down towards Lebanon where the regime believes weapons are regularly flowing across the border, it's only 30km from the Lebanese border to Homs. It would not be difficult to move an army down this way to take these towns and villages that have ousted regime elements and are trying to take the fight to the government from here.As for the outlying areas, spreading down towards Lebanon where the regime believes weapons are regularly flowing across the border, it's only 30km from the Lebanese border to Homs. It would not be difficult to move an army down this way to take these towns and villages that have ousted regime elements and are trying to take the fight to the government from here.
1.56pm: Bill Neely of ITV News has been tweeting snippets from an interview with Syria's deputy foreign minister, Faisal Mekdad.1.56pm: Bill Neely of ITV News has been tweeting snippets from an interview with Syria's deputy foreign minister, Faisal Mekdad.
Neely says Mekdad told him Syria is "dealing very softly" with Homs and is "absolutely not" using tanks and artillery against civilian areas in the city. Mekdad adds that images of tanks and artillery in Homs "are being fabricated".Neely says Mekdad told him Syria is "dealing very softly" with Homs and is "absolutely not" using tanks and artillery against civilian areas in the city. Mekdad adds that images of tanks and artillery in Homs "are being fabricated".
In a combative mood, the minister also told him that "the so-called Free Syrian army is [made up of] criminals, drug addicts and people who've come from prisons", and that the west is being "confrontational ... hysterical in its statements and mad in its political positions" on Syria.In a combative mood, the minister also told him that "the so-called Free Syrian army is [made up of] criminals, drug addicts and people who've come from prisons", and that the west is being "confrontational ... hysterical in its statements and mad in its political positions" on Syria.
We're promised more of the interview on ITV later today.We're promised more of the interview on ITV later today.
1.35pm: Ali Abdullah Saleh, who is due to step down as Yemen's president later this month, has made an unexpected venture into journalism today with an op-ed article for al-Methaq (in Arabic).1.35pm: Ali Abdullah Saleh, who is due to step down as Yemen's president later this month, has made an unexpected venture into journalism today with an op-ed article for al-Methaq (in Arabic).
It's about the presidential "election" in Yemen scheduled for 21 February – which Saleh describes as a victory for democracy. Others might disagree, since Saleh's deputy, Abdu Rabbo Mansour Hadi, is the only permitted candidate.It's about the presidential "election" in Yemen scheduled for 21 February – which Saleh describes as a victory for democracy. Others might disagree, since Saleh's deputy, Abdu Rabbo Mansour Hadi, is the only permitted candidate.
12.44pm: Here's a brief summary of the day's developments so far:12.44pm: Here's a brief summary of the day's developments so far:
SyriaSyria
• The regime has reportedly resumed its tank bombardment of Homs, according to an activist quoted by Reuters who said loyalist troops had been focusing their fire on the Baba Amr and al-Waer districts of the city. Mohammad al-Hassan said the tank shelling in the neighbourhoods had been "non-stop". One activist told CNN that regime forces were using civilians as human shields – a claim that could not be confirmed.• The regime has reportedly resumed its tank bombardment of Homs, according to an activist quoted by Reuters who said loyalist troops had been focusing their fire on the Baba Amr and al-Waer districts of the city. Mohammad al-Hassan said the tank shelling in the neighbourhoods had been "non-stop". One activist told CNN that regime forces were using civilians as human shields – a claim that could not be confirmed.
• Syria has rejected a call by the Arab League for a joint UN-Arab peacekeeping force to be sent into the country. Attributing the appeal to the "hysteria" of Saudi Arabia and Qatar, it condemned international interference in Syrian affairs.• Syria has rejected a call by the Arab League for a joint UN-Arab peacekeeping force to be sent into the country. Attributing the appeal to the "hysteria" of Saudi Arabia and Qatar, it condemned international interference in Syrian affairs.
• The proposal has been welcomed by the EU but has received a muted response from Russia and China. In Moscow, Sergei Lavrov said the government was studying the suggestion but needed more details. In Beijing, a spokesman for the foreign ministry refused to say directly whether such a move would be supported by China, saying only that the country backed the Arab League's "political mediation".• The proposal has been welcomed by the EU but has received a muted response from Russia and China. In Moscow, Sergei Lavrov said the government was studying the suggestion but needed more details. In Beijing, a spokesman for the foreign ministry refused to say directly whether such a move would be supported by China, saying only that the country backed the Arab League's "political mediation".
• President Assad has received a copy of the country's new draft constitution, according to the Syrian government news agency, Sana. Sana suggests this will transform Syria "into an example to follow in terms of public freedoms and political plurality". Opponents of the regime are unconvinced, pointing out that the drafting has been done without public dialogue.• President Assad has received a copy of the country's new draft constitution, according to the Syrian government news agency, Sana. Sana suggests this will transform Syria "into an example to follow in terms of public freedoms and political plurality". Opponents of the regime are unconvinced, pointing out that the drafting has been done without public dialogue.
BahrainBahrain
• Security is high in and around the capital, Manama, ahead of the one-year anniversary of Bahrain's uprising. Opposition groups are urging protesters to head to a site known as Freedom Square on the outskirts of the city, which many hope to occupy.• Security is high in and around the capital, Manama, ahead of the one-year anniversary of Bahrain's uprising. Opposition groups are urging protesters to head to a site known as Freedom Square on the outskirts of the city, which many hope to occupy.
• The leader of the largest Shia opposition party has called on protesters to refrain from violence, stressing the need for peaceful protests. Al Wefaq has separately accused the authorities of imposing a "siege" on Shia villages around Manama ahead of the anniversary.• The leader of the largest Shia opposition party has called on protesters to refrain from violence, stressing the need for peaceful protests. Al Wefaq has separately accused the authorities of imposing a "siege" on Shia villages around Manama ahead of the anniversary.
• A blogger and activist has been detained for seven days following a protest in Manama. Zainab Alkhawaja, who tweets under the name @AngryArabiya, is reported to have been charged with taking part in an illegal gathering and disturbing the peace. It is not the first time she has been detained by the Bahraini authorities.• A blogger and activist has been detained for seven days following a protest in Manama. Zainab Alkhawaja, who tweets under the name @AngryArabiya, is reported to have been charged with taking part in an illegal gathering and disturbing the peace. It is not the first time she has been detained by the Bahraini authorities.
• Amnesty International has said the government risks falling short of its promises of reform unless it does more to implement change. The authorities remain "far from delivering the human rights changes that were recommended by an independent international commission", the organisation warns.• Amnesty International has said the government risks falling short of its promises of reform unless it does more to implement change. The authorities remain "far from delivering the human rights changes that were recommended by an independent international commission", the organisation warns.
Israel
Israel
• An explosion in India is reported to have hit an Israeli diplomat's car, injuring two people. A device is also said to have been defused at Israel's embassy in Tbilisi, Georgia.• An explosion in India is reported to have hit an Israeli diplomat's car, injuring two people. A device is also said to have been defused at Israel's embassy in Tbilisi, Georgia.
EgyptEgypt
• Austin Mackell, an Australian freelance journalist who writes occasionally for the Guardian, was arrested at the weekend and is now thought to be in the custody of military intelligence. He was due to file an article this morning for Comment is Free about the role of industrial workers' struggles in the Egyptian revolution. He was detained in the Delta city of Mahalla.• Austin Mackell, an Australian freelance journalist who writes occasionally for the Guardian, was arrested at the weekend and is now thought to be in the custody of military intelligence. He was due to file an article this morning for Comment is Free about the role of industrial workers' struggles in the Egyptian revolution. He was detained in the Delta city of Mahalla.
12.32pm: Worth noting, though probably not connected with Syria: an explosion in India is reported to have hit an Israeli diplomat's car, injuring two people. A device is also said to have been defused at Israel's embassy in Tbilisi, Georgia.12.32pm: Worth noting, though probably not connected with Syria: an explosion in India is reported to have hit an Israeli diplomat's car, injuring two people. A device is also said to have been defused at Israel's embassy in Tbilisi, Georgia.
12.15pm: Arguments continue over who may have been responsible for the double bombing that reportedly killed at least 28 people in Aleppo last week.12.15pm: Arguments continue over who may have been responsible for the double bombing that reportedly killed at least 28 people in Aleppo last week.
A commander in the Free Syrian Army was initially quoted as saying that his organisation carried out the attacks, but this was later denied.A commander in the Free Syrian Army was initially quoted as saying that his organisation carried out the attacks, but this was later denied.
On Friday, McClatchy Newspapers quoted an unnamed US official as suggesting the Iraqi branch of al-Qaida could be behind the bombings.On Friday, McClatchy Newspapers quoted an unnamed US official as suggesting the Iraqi branch of al-Qaida could be behind the bombings.
Meanwhile, the Washington Post says it has been told by intelligence officials "that while the recent bombings in Syria have the hallmarks of al-Qaida operations, they have found no conclusive link to al-Qaida or its Iraqi affiliate".Meanwhile, the Washington Post says it has been told by intelligence officials "that while the recent bombings in Syria have the hallmarks of al-Qaida operations, they have found no conclusive link to al-Qaida or its Iraqi affiliate".
On the other hand, the Syrian opposition activist Ammar Abdulhamid maintains that the attacks were staged by the Assad regime. He writes on his blog that one of the people named as a victim of the Aleppo explosions – Majid Abdallah Smeisim – was under arrest at the time.On the other hand, the Syrian opposition activist Ammar Abdulhamid maintains that the attacks were staged by the Assad regime. He writes on his blog that one of the people named as a victim of the Aleppo explosions – Majid Abdallah Smeisim – was under arrest at the time.
12.12pm: The EU has welcomed the proposal of a joint Arab-UN peacekeeping force as a means of easing the violence in Syria.12.12pm: The EU has welcomed the proposal of a joint Arab-UN peacekeeping force as a means of easing the violence in Syria.
Michael Mann, a spokesman for EU foreign policy chief, Catherine Ashton, said the bloc welcomed the Arab League's "strong and clear commitment and leadership".Michael Mann, a spokesman for EU foreign policy chief, Catherine Ashton, said the bloc welcomed the Arab League's "strong and clear commitment and leadership".
The EU's first goal is an immediate cessation of killings and therefore we are very supportive of any initiative that can help achieve this objective, including a stronger Arab presence on the ground in cooperation with the UN to achieve a ceasefire and the end of violence.The EU's first goal is an immediate cessation of killings and therefore we are very supportive of any initiative that can help achieve this objective, including a stronger Arab presence on the ground in cooperation with the UN to achieve a ceasefire and the end of violence.
The Arab League has made again a strong appeal to the UN security council. We renew our urgent calls on all members of the security council to be constructive and act with responsibility at this crucial moment.The Arab League has made again a strong appeal to the UN security council. We renew our urgent calls on all members of the security council to be constructive and act with responsibility at this crucial moment.
11.54am: The Bahraini government risks falling short of its promises of reform if it fails to do more to implement change, Amnesty International has warned today.11.54am: The Bahraini government risks falling short of its promises of reform if it fails to do more to implement change, Amnesty International has warned today.
The authorities remain "far from delivering the human rights changes that were recommended by an independent international commission", it added.The authorities remain "far from delivering the human rights changes that were recommended by an independent international commission", it added.
On the eve of the uprising's one-year anniversary, Hassiba Hadj Sahraoui, the deputy director of Amnesty International's Middle East and North Africa Programme, said:On the eve of the uprising's one-year anniversary, Hassiba Hadj Sahraoui, the deputy director of Amnesty International's Middle East and North Africa Programme, said:
Despite promises made by the government, victims and families of victims of the serious human rights violations – torture, arbitrary detention and excessive use of force – that have taken place since protests began a year ago are still waiting for justice.Despite promises made by the government, victims and families of victims of the serious human rights violations – torture, arbitrary detention and excessive use of force – that have taken place since protests began a year ago are still waiting for justice.
The government has made a number of announcements of what it has done to improve the human rights situation, but the fact is that it has still not delivered in the most important areas.The government has made a number of announcements of what it has done to improve the human rights situation, but the fact is that it has still not delivered in the most important areas.
Only when we see prisoners of conscience being released and perpetrators, including those who gave orders, being brought to justice, will we be able to judge whether this is more than a public relations exercise.Only when we see prisoners of conscience being released and perpetrators, including those who gave orders, being brought to justice, will we be able to judge whether this is more than a public relations exercise.
11.46am: In South Africa, William Hague has said he does not believe western troops should form any part of a joint Arab-UN peacekeeing force.11.46am: In South Africa, William Hague has said he does not believe western troops should form any part of a joint Arab-UN peacekeeing force.
Clarifiying his position on the Arab League's proposal, Hague told reporters:Clarifiying his position on the Arab League's proposal, Hague told reporters:
I don't see the way forward in Syria as being western boots on the ground in any form, including in any peacekeeping form. Of course, if such a concept can be made viable, we will be supporting it in all the usual ways.I don't see the way forward in Syria as being western boots on the ground in any form, including in any peacekeeping form. Of course, if such a concept can be made viable, we will be supporting it in all the usual ways.
11.39am: Syrian government forces in Homs are using civilians as human shields, according to one activist who spoke to CNN.11.39am: Syrian government forces in Homs are using civilians as human shields, according to one activist who spoke to CNN.
The claim – which cannot be verified – came from an opposition activist named Omar who told the broadcaster troops were using detained civilians as human shields, placing them on tanks to prevent the opposition Free Syrian Army from fighting back.The claim – which cannot be verified – came from an opposition activist named Omar who told the broadcaster troops were using detained civilians as human shields, placing them on tanks to prevent the opposition Free Syrian Army from fighting back.
He added:He added:
My house is dancing. I am almost dead because of the siege.My house is dancing. I am almost dead because of the siege.
11.13am: If a new monitoring mission is sent to Syria, it should be much stronger and larger than the previous one sent by the Arab League, in the view of Chris Doyle, the director of the Council for Arab-British Understanding.11.13am: If a new monitoring mission is sent to Syria, it should be much stronger and larger than the previous one sent by the Arab League, in the view of Chris Doyle, the director of the Council for Arab-British Understanding.
Doyle, who is married to a Syrian opposition activist, says:Doyle, who is married to a Syrian opposition activist, says:
A monitoring mission needs to be led by a credible figure with an untarnished international reputation, with properly trained monitors who know how to operate in such an environment. Its size should be in the thousands to ensure it can cover all of the country.A monitoring mission needs to be led by a credible figure with an untarnished international reputation, with properly trained monitors who know how to operate in such an environment. Its size should be in the thousands to ensure it can cover all of the country.
The mission also has to be independent, with its own means of communications and ability to travel everywhere at any time. It should also report in an open and transparent fashion, unafraid to point fingers at whichever parties commit atrocities.The mission also has to be independent, with its own means of communications and ability to travel everywhere at any time. It should also report in an open and transparent fashion, unafraid to point fingers at whichever parties commit atrocities.
The other options are dangerous or limited. Military intervention would almost certainly make matters worse and, as we have seen, arming the opposition against a vastly superior force, is a futile exercise against a regime prepared to use any and all means ...The other options are dangerous or limited. Military intervention would almost certainly make matters worse and, as we have seen, arming the opposition against a vastly superior force, is a futile exercise against a regime prepared to use any and all means ...
In the end there is no military exit from this crisis and from what is increasingly becoming a major civil war. The only solution is political.In the end there is no military exit from this crisis and from what is increasingly becoming a major civil war. The only solution is political.
11.09am: George Galloway, the controversial former MP, describes the Syrian conflict as "a proxy war"
in an article for the Morning Star. He writes:		11.09am: George Galloway, the controversial former MP, describes the Syrian conflict as "a proxy war"
in an article for the Morning Star. He writes:
Let no one be fooled. This is a stepping stone to further war. Indeed it is a proxy for the big battle, cowing Iran and its people by one means or another in order to secure a refashioned hegemony in the region ...Let no one be fooled. This is a stepping stone to further war. Indeed it is a proxy for the big battle, cowing Iran and its people by one means or another in order to secure a refashioned hegemony in the region ...
If you fear, as you should, the possibility of the war with Iran that the Israeli hard right are pushing for, then the time is now to stand against the propaganda, meddling and drive for intervention over Syria and across the Middle East.If you fear, as you should, the possibility of the war with Iran that the Israeli hard right are pushing for, then the time is now to stand against the propaganda, meddling and drive for intervention over Syria and across the Middle East.
Last week, a series of emails came to light in which Galloway described Syria as "the last castle of Arab dignity" and asked an official to "convey my respect and my admiration to his excellency the president".Last week, a series of emails came to light in which Galloway described Syria as "the last castle of Arab dignity" and asked an official to "convey my respect and my admiration to his excellency the president".
10.53am: Tensions appear to be running high in Bahrain, where the leader of the large Shia opposition party has urged youths to refrain from violence ahead of tomorrow's anniversary.10.53am: Tensions appear to be running high in Bahrain, where the leader of the large Shia opposition party has urged youths to refrain from violence ahead of tomorrow's anniversary.
Reuters reports that Sheikh Ali Salman told a crowd of several thousand people outside Manama last night that peaceful protest was the best way to push for change.Reuters reports that Sheikh Ali Salman told a crowd of several thousand people outside Manama last night that peaceful protest was the best way to push for change.
The repression has led some to respond and throw petrol bombs in the last month, and here I direct a call ... that we must continue using peaceful methods.The repression has led some to respond and throw petrol bombs in the last month, and here I direct a call ... that we must continue using peaceful methods.
Believe me, our case is not throwing petrol bombs ... We should not be dragged through that door ... We should stick to our right to protest anywhere and any time. Don't be dragged into violent action.Believe me, our case is not throwing petrol bombs ... We should not be dragged through that door ... We should stick to our right to protest anywhere and any time. Don't be dragged into violent action.
Meanwhile, Maryam Alkhawaja, of the Bahrain Centre for Human Rights, has tweeted that her sister, the activist Zainab Alkhawaja, who tweets under the name @AngryArabiya, has been detained in Manama.Meanwhile, Maryam Alkhawaja, of the Bahrain Centre for Human Rights, has tweeted that her sister, the activist Zainab Alkhawaja, who tweets under the name @AngryArabiya, has been detained in Manama.
Zainab Alkhawaja @angryarabiya being detained on charges of illegal gathering and disturbing the peace #bahrain #feb14 #arabspringZainab Alkhawaja @angryarabiya being detained on charges of illegal gathering and disturbing the peace #bahrain #feb14 #arabspring
— Maryam Alkhawaja (@MARYAMALKHAWAJA) February 13, 2012— Maryam Alkhawaja (@MARYAMALKHAWAJA) February 13, 2012
The last few tweets from @AngryArabiya indicate that she was on a march in the city yesterday with Nabeel Rajab, another well-known campaigner, when she was stopped by police.The last few tweets from @AngryArabiya indicate that she was on a march in the city yesterday with Nabeel Rajab, another well-known campaigner, when she was stopped by police.
@NABEELRAJAB with his wife and daughter and son, walking to pearl roundabout #bahrain twitpic.com/8iwugr@NABEELRAJAB with his wife and daughter and son, walking to pearl roundabout #bahrain twitpic.com/8iwugr
— angry arabiya (@angryarabiya) February 12, 2012— angry arabiya (@angryarabiya) February 12, 2012
The final two suggest trouble.The final two suggest trouble.
Police now threatning to shoot us #bahrainPolice now threatning to shoot us #bahrain
— angry arabiya (@angryarabiya) February 12, 2012— angry arabiya (@angryarabiya) February 12, 2012
Nabeel and his family being shot at #bahrain twitpic.com/8iwvwwNabeel and his family being shot at #bahrain twitpic.com/8iwvww
— angry arabiya (@angryarabiya) February 12, 2012— angry arabiya (@angryarabiya) February 12, 2012
10.42am: This video, posted by the Local Coordination Committee (LCC) opposition network, appears to show continued shelling in the Baba Amr neighbourhood today.10.42am: This video, posted by the Local Coordination Committee (LCC) opposition network, appears to show continued shelling in the Baba Amr neighbourhood today.
The Guardian is not able to verify its authenticity.The Guardian is not able to verify its authenticity.
10.31am: In Egypt, Austin Mackell, an Australian freelance journalist who writes occasionally for the Guardian, was arrested at the weekend and is now thought to be in the custody of military intelligence.10.31am: In Egypt, Austin Mackell, an Australian freelance journalist who writes occasionally for the Guardian, was arrested at the weekend and is now thought to be in the custody of military intelligence.
He was due to file an article this morning for Comment is Free about the role of industrial workers' struggles in the Egyptian revolution, and had said he would be travelling to the Delta city of Mahalla (the scene of frequent factory strikes), which is where he was arrested along with two companions.He was due to file an article this morning for Comment is Free about the role of industrial workers' struggles in the Egyptian revolution, and had said he would be travelling to the Delta city of Mahalla (the scene of frequent factory strikes), which is where he was arrested along with two companions.
His case has been taken up by the Green party in Australia. The latest indications are that he will probably be released, and then deported.His case has been taken up by the Green party in Australia. The latest indications are that he will probably be released, and then deported.
10.15am: The Syrian government news agency, Sana, reports that President Assad has received a copy of the country's new draft constitution. He issued a presidential decree last October setting up a special committee with instructions to produce a draft within four months, which it has now done.10.15am: The Syrian government news agency, Sana, reports that President Assad has received a copy of the country's new draft constitution. He issued a presidential decree last October setting up a special committee with instructions to produce a draft within four months, which it has now done.
Plans for a new constitution have been hailed by the regime as evidence of its intention to reform, and Sana suggests this will transform Syria "into an example to follow in terms of public freedoms and political plurality".Plans for a new constitution have been hailed by the regime as evidence of its intention to reform, and Sana suggests this will transform Syria "into an example to follow in terms of public freedoms and political plurality".
Opponents of the regime are unconvinced, pointing out that the drafting has been done without public dialogue.Opponents of the regime are unconvinced, pointing out that the drafting has been done without public dialogue.
One of the most criticised parts of the existing constitution is Article 8, which says:One of the most criticised parts of the existing constitution is Article 8, which says:

The leading party in the society and the state is the Socialist Arab Baath Party.
The leading party in the society and the state is the Socialist Arab Baath Party.
This, in effect, prevents any other party from winning power in an election.This, in effect, prevents any other party from winning power in an election.
10.06am: Russia is reserving judgment on the Arab-UN peacekeeping proposal until it learns further details, the foreign minister has said this morning.10.06am: Russia is reserving judgment on the Arab-UN peacekeeping proposal until it learns further details, the foreign minister has said this morning.
Sergei Lavrov, speaking at a press conference, said the government was studying the proposal, made by the Arab League last night, but that violence would have to end before any such mission takes place, Reuters reports.Sergei Lavrov, speaking at a press conference, said the government was studying the proposal, made by the Arab League last night, but that violence would have to end before any such mission takes place, Reuters reports.
So that's now two muted reactions to the proposal from the two countries that have blocked attempts to pass a UN security council resolution on Syria.So that's now two muted reactions to the proposal from the two countries that have blocked attempts to pass a UN security council resolution on Syria.
Earlier today, China's foreign ministry indicated that, while it backed Arab Leage mediation in the country, there was no clear support for the call for peacekeepers. Asked about the proposal, spokesman Liu Weimin was quoted by Reuters as saying:Earlier today, China's foreign ministry indicated that, while it backed Arab Leage mediation in the country, there was no clear support for the call for peacekeepers. Asked about the proposal, spokesman Liu Weimin was quoted by Reuters as saying:

China calls for and supports the Arab League's continued efforts at political mediation, which plays a proactive and constructive role with regard to peaceful settlement of the Syrian issue.
China calls for and supports the Arab League's continued efforts at political mediation, which plays a proactive and constructive role with regard to peaceful settlement of the Syrian issue.
9.45am: Syrian government tanks have failed to push into the rebel-held town of Rastan, activists have told AP.9.45am: Syrian government tanks have failed to push into the rebel-held town of Rastan, activists have told AP.
The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, says Monday's attempt to storm Rastan left at least three soldiers dead. Rastan has been held by the rebels since late January.The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, says Monday's attempt to storm Rastan left at least three soldiers dead. Rastan has been held by the rebels since late January.
Calls to the town's residents are not getting through. The telephone lines appear to be cut, as they usually are during military operations.Calls to the town's residents are not getting through. The telephone lines appear to be cut, as they usually are during military operations.
9.24am: William Hague, the foreign secretary, has welcomed the Arab League's "significant steps" towards raising diplomatic pressure on the regime.9.24am: William Hague, the foreign secretary, has welcomed the Arab League's "significant steps" towards raising diplomatic pressure on the regime.
He said a joint Arab-UN peacekeeping force could play "an important role" in easing the conflict, but only if the regime first ends its violence. In a statement, he said:He said a joint Arab-UN peacekeeping force could play "an important role" in easing the conflict, but only if the regime first ends its violence. In a statement, he said:

We will discuss urgently with the Arab League and our international partners the proposals for a joint AL-UN peacekeeping force.
We will discuss urgently with the Arab League and our international partners the proposals for a joint AL-UN peacekeeping force.
Such a mission could have an important role to play in saving lives, providing the Assad regime ends the violence against civilians, withdraws its forces from towns and cities and establishes a credible ceasefire.Such a mission could have an important role to play in saving lives, providing the Assad regime ends the violence against civilians, withdraws its forces from towns and cities and establishes a credible ceasefire.
8.55am: Good morning and welcome to Middle East Live. Today looks to be another day of bloodshed in Syria and diplomatic wrangling in the corridors of the UN and the Arab League.8.55am: Good morning and welcome to Middle East Live. Today looks to be another day of bloodshed in Syria and diplomatic wrangling in the corridors of the UN and the Arab League.
Here's a brief summary of the latest develpments.Here's a brief summary of the latest develpments.
SyriaSyria
•The regime has resumed its tank bombardment of Homs overnight, according to an activist quoted by Reuters who said loyalist troops had been focusing their fire on the Baba Amr and al-Waer districts of the rebellious city. Mohammad al-Hassan said the tank shelling in the neighbourhoods had been "non-stop".•The regime has resumed its tank bombardment of Homs overnight, according to an activist quoted by Reuters who said loyalist troops had been focusing their fire on the Baba Amr and al-Waer districts of the rebellious city. Mohammad al-Hassan said the tank shelling in the neighbourhoods had been "non-stop".
•The Guardian's Martin Chulov reports from a rural town on the outskirts of Homs which has been transformed into a Free Syria Army stronghold. He writes:•The Guardian's Martin Chulov reports from a rural town on the outskirts of Homs which has been transformed into a Free Syria Army stronghold. He writes:
Less than five months ago, this poor rural town on the outskirts of Homs was a passive place whose residents vented their anger at Bashar al-Assad at weekly rallies; never through the barrel of a gun. An army attack on 23 September changed all that. Now the town is a stronghold of armed resistance in Syria's west.Less than five months ago, this poor rural town on the outskirts of Homs was a passive place whose residents vented their anger at Bashar al-Assad at weekly rallies; never through the barrel of a gun. An army attack on 23 September changed all that. Now the town is a stronghold of armed resistance in Syria's west.
•Arab leaders have called for a joint UN-Arab peacekeeping force to curb the bloodshed and agreed to end all diplomatic co-operation with Damascus.The Arab League, meeting in Cairo on Sunday, adopted a resolution calling for renewed international efforts to end the 11-month conflict and scrapped its own monitoring mission to Syria. The UN general assembly is due to meet later today to discuss the ongoing crisis.•Arab leaders have called for a joint UN-Arab peacekeeping force to curb the bloodshed and agreed to end all diplomatic co-operation with Damascus.The Arab League, meeting in Cairo on Sunday, adopted a resolution calling for renewed international efforts to end the 11-month conflict and scrapped its own monitoring mission to Syria. The UN general assembly is due to meet later today to discuss the ongoing crisis.
•Syria swiftly rejected the call. Its ambassador to the Arab League, Ahmed Youssef, was quoted as saying that Saudi Arabia and Qatar were "living in a state of hysteria after their last failure at the UN security council to call for outside interference in Syria's affairs and to impose sanctions on the Syrian people".•Syria swiftly rejected the call. Its ambassador to the Arab League, Ahmed Youssef, was quoted as saying that Saudi Arabia and Qatar were "living in a state of hysteria after their last failure at the UN security council to call for outside interference in Syria's affairs and to impose sanctions on the Syrian people".
•China has this morning refused to say whether or not it will back the Arab League's move. The Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Weimin refused to directly answer repeated questions, AP reported, and said merely that China backed the Arab League's "political mediation efforts".•China has this morning refused to say whether or not it will back the Arab League's move. The Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Weimin refused to directly answer repeated questions, AP reported, and said merely that China backed the Arab League's "political mediation efforts".
•Ayman al-Zawahiri, the leader of al-Qaida, called on Muslims around the world to support the Syrian rebels. The statement – the most explicit attempt yet by the terrorist group to intervene in the ongoing conflict – came in a video posted on extremist websites on Saturday. Zawahiri denounced Assad's regime as "penicious" and "cancerous".•Ayman al-Zawahiri, the leader of al-Qaida, called on Muslims around the world to support the Syrian rebels. The statement – the most explicit attempt yet by the terrorist group to intervene in the ongoing conflict – came in a video posted on extremist websites on Saturday. Zawahiri denounced Assad's regime as "penicious" and "cancerous".
BahrainBahrain
•Security is high in and around the capital, Manama, ahead of the one-year anniversary of Bahrain's uprising. Opposition groups are urging protesters to head to a site known as Freedom Square on the outskirts of the city, which many hope to occupy. The opposition Al Wefaq party has accused the authorities of impsosing a "siege" on Shia villages around Manama ahead of the anniversary.•Security is high in and around the capital, Manama, ahead of the one-year anniversary of Bahrain's uprising. Opposition groups are urging protesters to head to a site known as Freedom Square on the outskirts of the city, which many hope to occupy. The opposition Al Wefaq party has accused the authorities of impsosing a "siege" on Shia villages around Manama ahead of the anniversary.