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Syria: 'heavy fighting' in Damascus - live updates Syria: 'heavy fighting' in Damascus - Monday 19 March 2012
(40 minutes later)
3.48pm: Last week ominous graffiti appeared on a wall in Homs which read "Assad or we'll burn Syria" (via @Samsomhoms).3.48pm: Last week ominous graffiti appeared on a wall in Homs which read "Assad or we'll burn Syria" (via @Samsomhoms).
The same slogan has now appeared on a bus in Damascus, according to activists:The same slogan has now appeared on a bus in Damascus, according to activists:
Same slogan used by Assad's soldiers in #Homs spotted in #Damascus - "Assad or we will burn down the country" twitter.com/ArabSpringFF/s…Same slogan used by Assad's soldiers in #Homs spotted in #Damascus - "Assad or we will burn down the country" twitter.com/ArabSpringFF/s…
— Free Syrian (@ArabSpringFF) March 19, 2012— Free Syrian (@ArabSpringFF) March 19, 2012
3.32pm: France is due to submit a new statement to the security council supporting Kofi Annan's peace efforts in Syria, Reuters reports.3.32pm: France is due to submit a new statement to the security council supporting Kofi Annan's peace efforts in Syria, Reuters reports.
The decision to prepare a "presidential statement" for the 15-nation council comes after Russia and China twice vetoed binding resolutions that condemned Syria's yearlong assault on demonstrators opposed to President Bashar al-Assad that the United Nations says has killed over 8,000 civilians.The decision to prepare a "presidential statement" for the 15-nation council comes after Russia and China twice vetoed binding resolutions that condemned Syria's yearlong assault on demonstrators opposed to President Bashar al-Assad that the United Nations says has killed over 8,000 civilians.
"The main focus is to build common ground, support Annan's efforts and send a clear message to Damascus," a UN diplomat told Reuters on condition of anonymity. France plans to circulate the draft to council members later on Monday at the end of a closed-door meeting on unrelated matters, envoys said."The main focus is to build common ground, support Annan's efforts and send a clear message to Damascus," a UN diplomat told Reuters on condition of anonymity. France plans to circulate the draft to council members later on Monday at the end of a closed-door meeting on unrelated matters, envoys said.
Meanwhile, Annan's team and the UN are refusing to name the five experts who arrived in Syria today as part of his mission, Inner City Press reports.Meanwhile, Annan's team and the UN are refusing to name the five experts who arrived in Syria today as part of his mission, Inner City Press reports.
3.13pm: The US foreign affairs thinktank, the Brookings Institute has published a paper setting out six "options for regime change in Syria" (via @ahmed)3.13pm: The US foreign affairs thinktank, the Brookings Institute has published a paper setting out six "options for regime change in Syria" (via @ahmed)
They are:They are:
1) Removing the regime via diplomacy
2) Coercing the regime via sanctions and diplomatic isolation
3) Arming the Syrian opposition to overthrow the regime
4) Engaging in a Libya-like air campaign to help an opposition army gain victory
5) Invading Syria with US led forces and toppling the regime directly
6) Participating in a multilateral, Nato-led effort to oust Asad and rebuild Syria.
1) Removing the regime via diplomacy
2) Coercing the regime via sanctions and diplomatic isolation
3) Arming the Syrian opposition to overthrow the regime
4) Engaging in a Libya-like air campaign to help an opposition army gain victory
5) Invading Syria with US led forces and toppling the regime directly
6) Participating in a multilateral, Nato-led effort to oust Asad and rebuild Syria.
It admits that all the options are "flawed, some quite some quite deeply."It admits that all the options are "flawed, some quite some quite deeply."
It warns:It warns:
Policy makers should recognize, however, that diplomacy and coercion alone may not topple Asad. The options in this paper offer alternatives for escalation and, at the same time, reasons that escalation would be costly and risky. In the end, policymakers may decide that the price for removing Asad is too high and the consequences for Syria's long-term stability too uncertain. If so, they must focus on the problem of a weakened but defiant Asad who is also more dependent on Iran.Policy makers should recognize, however, that diplomacy and coercion alone may not topple Asad. The options in this paper offer alternatives for escalation and, at the same time, reasons that escalation would be costly and risky. In the end, policymakers may decide that the price for removing Asad is too high and the consequences for Syria's long-term stability too uncertain. If so, they must focus on the problem of a weakened but defiant Asad who is also more dependent on Iran.
2.56pm: AP has more video footage of the inside of bullet-riddled flats in the Mezze district of Damascus, showing the aftermath of today's clashes.2.56pm: AP has more video footage of the inside of bullet-riddled flats in the Mezze district of Damascus, showing the aftermath of today's clashes.
The clip shows shows shell a hole in one wall next to a print of the Mona Lisa. Burned out rifle magazines can also been seen.The clip shows shows shell a hole in one wall next to a print of the Mona Lisa. Burned out rifle magazines can also been seen.
2.44pm: Here's a summary of the main events so far today:2.44pm: Here's a summary of the main events so far today:
SyriaSyria
Six people were killed in heavy clashes between armed rebels and members of the security forces in the upmarket Mezze district of Damascus. Two of those killed were members of the security forces and a further 16 were injured, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.Six people were killed in heavy clashes between armed rebels and members of the security forces in the upmarket Mezze district of Damascus. Two of those killed were members of the security forces and a further 16 were injured, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
Al-Jazeera claims to have seen leaked documents showing how Syrian president Bashar al-Assad ordered the suppression of protests. It claims they were leaked by a opposition mole who fled to Turkey with 1,400 pages of leaked documents. Meanwhile, a Turkish diplomat claimed two more Syrian generals had joined rebel fighters based in TurkeyAl-Jazeera claims to have seen leaked documents showing how Syrian president Bashar al-Assad ordered the suppression of protests. It claims they were leaked by a opposition mole who fled to Turkey with 1,400 pages of leaked documents. Meanwhile, a Turkish diplomat claimed two more Syrian generals had joined rebel fighters based in Turkey
• A team of five experts sent by UN-Arab League special envoy Kofi Annan has arrived in Syria. His spokesman said the team would stay until they made progress on implementing Annan's plan for a ceasefire.• A team of five experts sent by UN-Arab League special envoy Kofi Annan has arrived in Syria. His spokesman said the team would stay until they made progress on implementing Annan's plan for a ceasefire.
• The International Committee of the Red Cross says it has been given "positive indications" from Russia for its plan for daily two hour pause in the fighting in Syria. During a 90 minute minute in Moscow, ICRC president Jakob Kellenberger warned Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov that the humanitarian situation was likely to get worse in Syria.• The International Committee of the Red Cross says it has been given "positive indications" from Russia for its plan for daily two hour pause in the fighting in Syria. During a 90 minute minute in Moscow, ICRC president Jakob Kellenberger warned Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov that the humanitarian situation was likely to get worse in Syria.
LibyaLibya
Libyan Deputy prime minister Mustafa Abu Shagour is on his way to Mauritania to press for the handover of Muammar Gaddafi's intelligence chief Abdallah al-Senussi. France and the International Criminal Court in The Hague also seek custody of him.Libyan Deputy prime minister Mustafa Abu Shagour is on his way to Mauritania to press for the handover of Muammar Gaddafi's intelligence chief Abdallah al-Senussi. France and the International Criminal Court in The Hague also seek custody of him.
Amnesty has accused Nato of failing to to properly investigate or provide compensation for civilian deaths caused during its air campaign against the regime of Muammar Gaddafi. Libya. Donatella Rovera, senior crisis adviser at Amnesty said: "Nato officials repeatedly stressed their commitment to protecting civilians. They cannot now brush aside the deaths of scores of civilians with some vague statement of regret without properly investigating these deadly incidents."Amnesty has accused Nato of failing to to properly investigate or provide compensation for civilian deaths caused during its air campaign against the regime of Muammar Gaddafi. Libya. Donatella Rovera, senior crisis adviser at Amnesty said: "Nato officials repeatedly stressed their commitment to protecting civilians. They cannot now brush aside the deaths of scores of civilians with some vague statement of regret without properly investigating these deadly incidents."
2.10pm: Six people were killed in the clashes in Mezze, including two members of the security forces, according to British-based Rami Abdulrahman head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.2.10pm: Six people were killed in the clashes in Mezze, including two members of the security forces, according to British-based Rami Abdulrahman head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
He denied telling the New York Times that 18 people had been killed. The group initially said 18 members of the security forces had been injured. It has now established that two died, and 16 were injured, Abdulrahman told the Guardian.He denied telling the New York Times that 18 people had been killed. The group initially said 18 members of the security forces had been injured. It has now established that two died, and 16 were injured, Abdulrahman told the Guardian.
At least four members of an armed gang, thought to consist of army defectors from outside Damascus, were also killed, he said.At least four members of an armed gang, thought to consist of army defectors from outside Damascus, were also killed, he said.
Abdulrahman said the violence began when the armed group attacked the apartment of a colonel in Mezze. After the attack they fled to a nearby apartment.Abdulrahman said the violence began when the armed group attacked the apartment of a colonel in Mezze. After the attack they fled to a nearby apartment.
There was then a three-hour gun battle with security forces. It ended when the security forces evacuated the building and attacked the gang.There was then a three-hour gun battle with security forces. It ended when the security forces evacuated the building and attacked the gang.
Four people from the armed or defected group were killed. The whereabouts of up to six other members of the group are unknown. "We don't know if they are injured or arrested," said Abdulrahman.Four people from the armed or defected group were killed. The whereabouts of up to six other members of the group are unknown. "We don't know if they are injured or arrested," said Abdulrahman.
1.42pm: Video has emerged purporting to show some of the damage from this morning's clashes in the Mezze district of Damascus.1.42pm: Video has emerged purporting to show some of the damage from this morning's clashes in the Mezze district of Damascus.
The clip shows a burnt-out flat in the area with pock marked walls. Syrian state media said the clashes occurred during the raid on a "terrorist" hide out.The clip shows a burnt-out flat in the area with pock marked walls. Syrian state media said the clashes occurred during the raid on a "terrorist" hide out.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights claimed 18 members of the security forces were killed in the clashes, the New York Times reports.The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights claimed 18 members of the security forces were killed in the clashes, the New York Times reports.
1.33pm: The International Committee of the Red Cross has described the Moscow meeting between its president and the Russian foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, as "positive".1.33pm: The International Committee of the Red Cross has described the Moscow meeting between its president and the Russian foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, as "positive".
A spokesman said:A spokesman said:
During the meeting, the ICRC received positive indications of support on its operational priorities and on its initiative of a two-hours cessation in fighting on a daily basis. We hope to see concrete results of such meetings on the ground in the coming days/weeks.During the meeting, the ICRC received positive indications of support on its operational priorities and on its initiative of a two-hours cessation in fighting on a daily basis. We hope to see concrete results of such meetings on the ground in the coming days/weeks.
1.23pm: The Syrian uprising has been the subject of a number of conspiracy theories, but none as bizarre as this.1.23pm: The Syrian uprising has been the subject of a number of conspiracy theories, but none as bizarre as this.
A state-owned television channel has suggested that the passing patterns of the Spanish football club Barcelona reveal weapons smuggling routes for rebel fighters, the Israeli news site Ynet reports.
A state-owned television channel has suggested that the passing patterns of the Spanish football club Barcelona reveal weapons smuggling routes for rebel fighters, the Israeli news site Ynet reports.
In a segment aired last December on how Arab media outlets such as Al-Jazeera Al-Arabiya were "distorting the facts," Al Dunya TV showed a clip from a game between Barcelona and archrival Real Madrid.

The narrator claimed that Barcelona's formation represented arms smuggling routes to Syrian rebels. The players represent the smugglers, the narrator said, while the ball's position represents the current location of the weapons.

According to the narrator, when Barcelona star Leo Messi passes the ball it indicates that the weapons have reached rebels in Deir Ezzor.
In a segment aired last December on how Arab media outlets such as Al-Jazeera Al-Arabiya were "distorting the facts," Al Dunya TV showed a clip from a game between Barcelona and archrival Real Madrid.

The narrator claimed that Barcelona's formation represented arms smuggling routes to Syrian rebels. The players represent the smugglers, the narrator said, while the ball's position represents the current location of the weapons.

According to the narrator, when Barcelona star Leo Messi passes the ball it indicates that the weapons have reached rebels in Deir Ezzor.
YouTube of clip is available here.YouTube of clip is available here.
Screengrab from Syrian TV station, al-Dunya.Screengrab from Syrian TV station, al-Dunya.
1.14pm: Russia's foreign minister, Sergei Lavro, has given a lukewarm response to Red Cross attempts to help it secure a ceasefire in Syria.1.14pm: Russia's foreign minister, Sergei Lavro, has given a lukewarm response to Red Cross attempts to help it secure a ceasefire in Syria.
At a meeting with the ICRC president, RIA Novosti quoted Lavrov as saying: "I can tell you that we are interested in further cooperation in implementing international humanitarian law."At a meeting with the ICRC president, RIA Novosti quoted Lavrov as saying: "I can tell you that we are interested in further cooperation in implementing international humanitarian law."
12.21pm: A team of five experts sent by UN-Arab League special envoy Kofi Annan has arrived in Syria, his spokesman Ahmed Fawzi told AFP.12.21pm: A team of five experts sent by UN-Arab League special envoy Kofi Annan has arrived in Syria, his spokesman Ahmed Fawzi told AFP.
There are five people with expertise in political, peacekeeping and mediation. They will be staying for as long as they are making progress (on reaching) agreement on practical steps to implement Annan's proposals.There are five people with expertise in political, peacekeeping and mediation. They will be staying for as long as they are making progress (on reaching) agreement on practical steps to implement Annan's proposals.
12.14pm: The president of the International Committee of the Red Cross has warned Russia that the humanitarian situation in Syria is likely get worse.12.14pm: The president of the International Committee of the Red Cross has warned Russia that the humanitarian situation in Syria is likely get worse.
Reuters reports:Reuters reports:
Jakob Kellenberger came to Moscow to ask Russia to help persuade the Syrian government to allow more access for humanitarian aid to Syrians trapped in zones of fighting.Jakob Kellenberger came to Moscow to ask Russia to help persuade the Syrian government to allow more access for humanitarian aid to Syrians trapped in zones of fighting.
"Our assessment, unfortunately, is that the humanitarian situation is most likely to deteriorate," Kellenberger told Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at the start of talks."Our assessment, unfortunately, is that the humanitarian situation is most likely to deteriorate," Kellenberger told Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at the start of talks.
Kellenberger said he wanted to share the organisation's assessment and "our convictions about what are the most urgent measures to be taken in the humanitarian field."Kellenberger said he wanted to share the organisation's assessment and "our convictions about what are the most urgent measures to be taken in the humanitarian field."
12.04pm: Al-Jazeera has more on those leaked Syrian security documents.12.04pm: Al-Jazeera has more on those leaked Syrian security documents.
It says they provide an insight into President Bashar al-Assad's strategy to suppress anti-government protests, but it doesn't quote from the documents themselves.It says they provide an insight into President Bashar al-Assad's strategy to suppress anti-government protests, but it doesn't quote from the documents themselves.
11.56am: Two more Syrian generals have fled to Turkey and joined rebel fighters, according to AFP citing a Turkish diplomat.11.56am: Two more Syrian generals have fled to Turkey and joined rebel fighters, according to AFP citing a Turkish diplomat.
The latest defections mean a total of nine generals have deserted since the revolt against Assad's rule erupted a year ago, many of them seeking refuge in neighboring Turkey.The latest defections mean a total of nine generals have deserted since the revolt against Assad's rule erupted a year ago, many of them seeking refuge in neighboring Turkey.
11.47am: Syrian activist @THE_47th has another unverified account of a Free Syrian Army raid in Mezze:11.47am: Syrian activist @THE_47th has another unverified account of a Free Syrian Army raid in Mezze:
On the Mezzeh Autostrad, there are a bunch of medium-height towers on the side of the rd called Maraweh where mostly Army Officers live (1)On the Mezzeh Autostrad, there are a bunch of medium-height towers on the side of the rd called Maraweh where mostly Army Officers live (1)
— ♕The 47th♕ (@THE_47th) March 19, 2012— ♕The 47th♕ (@THE_47th) March 19, 2012
A few of these Maraweh buildings housed Officers the FSA wanted, so they threw sound bombs, guards came out, all shot on the spot (2)A few of these Maraweh buildings housed Officers the FSA wanted, so they threw sound bombs, guards came out, all shot on the spot (2)
— ♕The 47th♕ (@THE_47th) March 19, 2012— ♕The 47th♕ (@THE_47th) March 19, 2012
FSA later entered the building, fought their way into kidnapping those officers. The same happened in 8 other buildings at the same time (3)FSA later entered the building, fought their way into kidnapping those officers. The same happened in 8 other buildings at the same time (3)
— ♕The 47th♕ (@THE_47th) March 19, 2012— ♕The 47th♕ (@THE_47th) March 19, 2012
In the meantime, other FSA members tried to storm Burj Tala (don't know why yet), made it to the top two levels but later got surrounded (4)In the meantime, other FSA members tried to storm Burj Tala (don't know why yet), made it to the top two levels but later got surrounded (4)
— ♕The 47th♕ (@THE_47th) March 19, 2012— ♕The 47th♕ (@THE_47th) March 19, 2012
Anyway, depending on source: over 30 Maraweh Sec Guards were killed on the spot, 50 resisting shabbeeha, and many officers kidnappedAnyway, depending on source: over 30 Maraweh Sec Guards were killed on the spot, 50 resisting shabbeeha, and many officers kidnapped
— ♕The 47th♕ (@THE_47th) March 19, 2012— ♕The 47th♕ (@THE_47th) March 19, 2012
Oh, and Muwasah Hospital & Razi Hospitals are full of injured soldiers..the ones who made it aliveOh, and Muwasah Hospital & Razi Hospitals are full of injured soldiers..the ones who made it alive
— ♕The 47th♕ (@THE_47th) March 19, 2012— ♕The 47th♕ (@THE_47th) March 19, 2012
11.30am: The state news agency Sana, has published a short account of what it says occurred today in the Mezze area of Damascus.11.30am: The state news agency Sana, has published a short account of what it says occurred today in the Mezze area of Damascus.
It claims authorities stormed a hideout of "an armed terrorist group" in a residential building in the area.It claims authorities stormed a hideout of "an armed terrorist group" in a residential building in the area.
Its unclear how many people died. The headline says three "terrorists" were killed in addition to a member of the security forces. The copy says two terrorists were killed and third arrested.Its unclear how many people died. The headline says three "terrorists" were killed in addition to a member of the security forces. The copy says two terrorists were killed and third arrested.
10.55am: Four people were killed in today's fighting in the Mezze district of Damascus, AP reports citing a pro-government TV station.10.55am: Four people were killed in today's fighting in the Mezze district of Damascus, AP reports citing a pro-government TV station.
Ikhbariyah TV station said the clash in the western Mezze district left three "terrorists" and a member of the security forces dead. It said one of the attackers was captured and three security troops were wounded.Ikhbariyah TV station said the clash in the western Mezze district left three "terrorists" and a member of the security forces dead. It said one of the attackers was captured and three security troops were wounded.
Ikhbariyah said the attackers were hiding out in an apartment building before the firefight.Ikhbariyah said the attackers were hiding out in an apartment building before the firefight.
A resident of the western Mezze district said automatic rifles and machineguns were used in the two-hour clash that ended at about 4 am local time. "We also heard three strong explosions," said the man who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of government reprisal.A resident of the western Mezze district said automatic rifles and machineguns were used in the two-hour clash that ended at about 4 am local time. "We also heard three strong explosions," said the man who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of government reprisal.
He added that the clash was close to the Swiss embassy and the home of Major General Assef Shawkat, the deputy chief of staff for security affairs who is married to President Bashar Assad's sister, Bushra.He added that the clash was close to the Swiss embassy and the home of Major General Assef Shawkat, the deputy chief of staff for security affairs who is married to President Bashar Assad's sister, Bushra.
An activist in the capital said the Monday morning clashes occurred near the political security directorate building. He said the clashes were followed with raids by security forces who were searching for the attackers.An activist in the capital said the Monday morning clashes occurred near the political security directorate building. He said the clashes were followed with raids by security forces who were searching for the attackers.
The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which has a network of activists throughout Syria, said 18 of Assad's troops were wounded in the clashes. It described the clashes "as the most violent of its kind and closest to security centers in Damascus since the revolution began."The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which has a network of activists throughout Syria, said 18 of Assad's troops were wounded in the clashes. It described the clashes "as the most violent of its kind and closest to security centers in Damascus since the revolution began."
10.41am: Al-Jazeera is about to publish a cache of Syrian documents it claims will show the Assad regime's plans to prevent uprisings in Damascus and Aleppo.10.41am: Al-Jazeera is about to publish a cache of Syrian documents it claims will show the Assad regime's plans to prevent uprisings in Damascus and Aleppo.
They also provide proof that the regime spied on Arab League, observers, according to the network's James Bays.They also provide proof that the regime spied on Arab League, observers, according to the network's James Bays.
#SYRIA full report on defector and secret papers again in less than 30 mins on #AJE#SYRIA full report on defector and secret papers again in less than 30 mins on #AJE
— JAMES BAYS (@baysontheroad) March 19, 2012— JAMES BAYS (@baysontheroad) March 19, 2012
Bays said the documents were obtained by Abdel Majid Barakat, an opposition mole who worked in an security office where the crackdown was planned.Bays said the documents were obtained by Abdel Majid Barakat, an opposition mole who worked in an security office where the crackdown was planned.
He fled the country with 1,400 pages of secret documents, Bays claimed.He fled the country with 1,400 pages of secret documents, Bays claimed.
10.29am: A Google Map of the Mezze area shows it is home to a number of government buildings and embassies.10.29am: A Google Map of the Mezze area shows it is home to a number of government buildings and embassies.
The Tala Tower, where one blast was heard, is close to the Ministry of Information and the Ba'ath party newspaper.The Tala Tower, where one blast was heard, is close to the Ministry of Information and the Ba'ath party newspaper.
The markers show the location of the tower and the pro-government neighbourhood of Mezze 86.The markers show the location of the tower and the pro-government neighbourhood of Mezze 86.
10.12am: Syrian blogger BSyria is wary of reports from Mezze, or Mazzeh as it also spelled.10.12am: Syrian blogger BSyria is wary of reports from Mezze, or Mazzeh as it also spelled.
I am quite sceptical of the news coming out of Mazzeh. Something happened, but what exactly, nobody knows yet.I am quite sceptical of the news coming out of Mazzeh. Something happened, but what exactly, nobody knows yet.
— BSyria (@BSyria) March 19, 2012— BSyria (@BSyria) March 19, 2012
The FSA and many bloggers are prone to exaggeration. #mazzehThe FSA and many bloggers are prone to exaggeration. #mazzeh
— BSyria (@BSyria) March 19, 2012— BSyria (@BSyria) March 19, 2012
9.51am: An activist group, the Revolution Leadership Council of Damascus, has put together an unverified timeline of what it claims happened this morning in Mezze.9.51am: An activist group, the Revolution Leadership Council of Damascus, has put together an unverified timeline of what it claims happened this morning in Mezze.
(All times local - two hours ahead of GMT)(All times local - two hours ahead of GMT)
12.50am12.50am
Heavy gunfire heard for almost an hour in West Mezze near the Tala Tower. All roads leading to the area were blocked by security forces. Several residents were reportedly injuredHeavy gunfire heard for almost an hour in West Mezze near the Tala Tower. All roads leading to the area were blocked by security forces. Several residents were reportedly injured
1.45am1.45am
Two blasts were heard seven minutes apart. and police cars were seen heading to the area.Two blasts were heard seven minutes apart. and police cars were seen heading to the area.
2.04am2.04am
Armed shabiha, from Mezze 86, a nearby pro-government neighbourhood, come down to West Mezze to support security forces.Armed shabiha, from Mezze 86, a nearby pro-government neighbourhood, come down to West Mezze to support security forces.
2.30am2.30am
Security forces and shabiha force the residents of one building onto the street. Heavy gunfire is heard. Snipers are seen on the roof tops of surrounding buildings.Security forces and shabiha force the residents of one building onto the street. Heavy gunfire is heard. Snipers are seen on the roof tops of surrounding buildings.
2.56am - 4am2.56am - 4am
Two more blasts were heard. A helicopter seen overhead using searchlights. More blasts follow as roads to Mezze 86 are blocked. Ambulances seen in the area. At least three people were killed and several were injured.Two more blasts were heard. A helicopter seen overhead using searchlights. More blasts follow as roads to Mezze 86 are blocked. Ambulances seen in the area. At least three people were killed and several were injured.
4.30am4.30am
Smoke is seen over the area as more explosions are hear. Several injured people are take to the al-Muwasah hospital.Smoke is seen over the area as more explosions are hear. Several injured people are take to the al-Muwasah hospital.
7.30am7.30am
There is intermittent gunfire as security cars roam the area. The Political Security building in the area is closed. Schools in Mezze are also shut for the day.There is intermittent gunfire as security cars roam the area. The Political Security building in the area is closed. Schools in Mezze are also shut for the day.
9.26am: A Damascus resident told al-Jazeera of hearing several "huge explosions" in the Mezze area this morning.9.26am: A Damascus resident told al-Jazeera of hearing several "huge explosions" in the Mezze area this morning.
The resident, named as Omar al-Khani, also claimed there heavy gunfire and that shabiha, or armed supporters of the regime, invaded the area from higher ground.The resident, named as Omar al-Khani, also claimed there heavy gunfire and that shabiha, or armed supporters of the regime, invaded the area from higher ground.
9.07am: An activist in Damascus claimed that this morning's clashes in the Mezze district signified a "huge change".9.07am: An activist in Damascus claimed that this morning's clashes in the Mezze district signified a "huge change".
"This means that the regime does not have full control of the [Mezze] area," Lena, a spokeswoman for the Revolution Leadership Council in Damascus, told the Guardian via Skype."This means that the regime does not have full control of the [Mezze] area," Lena, a spokeswoman for the Revolution Leadership Council in Damascus, told the Guardian via Skype.
She admitted that it was difficult to establish exactly what took place, but claimed reports pointed to possible military defections in the district. Mezze is one of the most prestigious neighbourhoods in Damascus and home to embassies and high ranking officials, Lena explained.She admitted that it was difficult to establish exactly what took place, but claimed reports pointed to possible military defections in the district. Mezze is one of the most prestigious neighbourhoods in Damascus and home to embassies and high ranking officials, Lena explained.
There were explosions, blasts. We heard that there was a clash between the regular army and the Free Syrian Army, but we are still not sure about that.There were explosions, blasts. We heard that there was a clash between the regular army and the Free Syrian Army, but we are still not sure about that.
It kept going from midnight to 6am. There were around 10 blasts. There were so many security forces there. There was a huge clash there. Around 100 injured people reached a nearby hospital.It kept going from midnight to 6am. There were around 10 blasts. There were so many security forces there. There was a huge clash there. Around 100 injured people reached a nearby hospital.
I heard things but I couldn't witness it myself. We have a network here. We have something like reporters in every street there. We come together on Facebook. We start talking together. 'What did you see? What did you hear?' We start gathering information and giving it to the media.I heard things but I couldn't witness it myself. We have a network here. We have something like reporters in every street there. We come together on Facebook. We start talking together. 'What did you see? What did you hear?' We start gathering information and giving it to the media.
It was [said] that the Free Syrian Army was carrying out a mission there, but we still don't know. We haven't heard anything from their part yet. But it seems that there might have been a defection in a building there - the political intelligence department. This is the why the regular army was fighting.It was [said] that the Free Syrian Army was carrying out a mission there, but we still don't know. We haven't heard anything from their part yet. But it seems that there might have been a defection in a building there - the political intelligence department. This is the why the regular army was fighting.
This is a heavily guarded areas, so it would be very strange for [the FSA to come from outside the area].This is a heavily guarded areas, so it would be very strange for [the FSA to come from outside the area].
Lena claimed RPGs were reported to have been used causing damage to buildings. She also claimed a helicopter hover over the area using a spot light.Lena claimed RPGs were reported to have been used causing damage to buildings. She also claimed a helicopter hover over the area using a spot light.
As an activist Lena said she was encouraged by what appeared to have taken place, and insisted this was not wishful thinking on her part.As an activist Lena said she was encouraged by what appeared to have taken place, and insisted this was not wishful thinking on her part.
This is a huge change, to hear gunfire in this prestigious place in Damascus at midnight. This is very very very different. People in Damascus know that this marks the beginning of the end. For me as an activist - I've been waiting for this for so long.This is a huge change, to hear gunfire in this prestigious place in Damascus at midnight. This is very very very different. People in Damascus know that this marks the beginning of the end. For me as an activist - I've been waiting for this for so long.
8.32am: (all times GMT) Welcome to Middle East Live. Reports of clashes in the Mezze district of Damascus point to possible military defections.8.32am: (all times GMT) Welcome to Middle East Live. Reports of clashes in the Mezze district of Damascus point to possible military defections.
Here's a roundup of the the latest developments:Here's a roundup of the the latest developments:
SyriaSyria
Heavy fighting has broken out between Free Syrian Army rebels and forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad in the Mezze district of Damascus where several security installations are based. A resident told Reuters: "There is fighting near Hamada supermarket and the sound of explosions there and elsewhere in the neighbourhood. Security police have blocked several side streets and the street lighting has been cut off."Heavy fighting has broken out between Free Syrian Army rebels and forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad in the Mezze district of Damascus where several security installations are based. A resident told Reuters: "There is fighting near Hamada supermarket and the sound of explosions there and elsewhere in the neighbourhood. Security police have blocked several side streets and the street lighting has been cut off."
The president of the International Committee of the Red Cross is due in Moscow to lobby the Russian foreign minister to try to persuade the Assad government to secure a daily ceasefire in Syria and allow humanitarian access to areas worst hit by the violence. Jakob Kellenberger said he was particularly concerned about the fate of detainees.The president of the International Committee of the Red Cross is due in Moscow to lobby the Russian foreign minister to try to persuade the Assad government to secure a daily ceasefire in Syria and allow humanitarian access to areas worst hit by the violence. Jakob Kellenberger said he was particularly concerned about the fate of detainees.
Syria's two biggest cities Aleppo and Damascus were hit by car bombs over the weekend as UN teams prepared to join a government-led humanitarian mission. On Saturday twin car bombs killed 27 people in the capital. A day later two more people were killed in another car bomb in Aleppo. A joint mission by the Syrian government, the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation was due to start assessing humanitarian needs in towns across Syria which have suffered from months of unrest.Syria's two biggest cities Aleppo and Damascus were hit by car bombs over the weekend as UN teams prepared to join a government-led humanitarian mission. On Saturday twin car bombs killed 27 people in the capital. A day later two more people were killed in another car bomb in Aleppo. A joint mission by the Syrian government, the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation was due to start assessing humanitarian needs in towns across Syria which have suffered from months of unrest.
LibyaLibya
Two British journalists who were arrested last month by a Libyan militia group and accused of spying have been released and cleared of all charges, Libya's Interior Ministry has said. Gareth Montgomery-Johnson, 36, and Nicholas Davies, 37, who work for Iran's state-owned Press TV, were arrested on 23 February by a Misrata militia based in Tripoli.Two British journalists who were arrested last month by a Libyan militia group and accused of spying have been released and cleared of all charges, Libya's Interior Ministry has said. Gareth Montgomery-Johnson, 36, and Nicholas Davies, 37, who work for Iran's state-owned Press TV, were arrested on 23 February by a Misrata militia based in Tripoli.
A three-way battle for custody of Abdullah al-Senussi, the Gaddafi regime's spymaster, has broken out following his arrest over the weekend in Mauritania. Senussi is wanted for trial by Libya, France and the international criminal court in The Hague.A three-way battle for custody of Abdullah al-Senussi, the Gaddafi regime's spymaster, has broken out following his arrest over the weekend in Mauritania. Senussi is wanted for trial by Libya, France and the international criminal court in The Hague.
The Libya campaign has come at a potentially high price, making future UN-backed missions to protect civilians less likely, a report by a leading UK security thinktank has warned. The report by Royal United Services Institute released on the first anniversary of the start of Nato's Operation Odyssey Dawn, said:The Libya campaign has come at a potentially high price, making future UN-backed missions to protect civilians less likely, a report by a leading UK security thinktank has warned. The report by Royal United Services Institute released on the first anniversary of the start of Nato's Operation Odyssey Dawn, said:
For advocates of the responsibility to protect [R2P], the worry should be that there is indeed a legacy of the Libya conflict: China and Russia will presume that the model in future operations is rather regime change under the cloak of R2P, and will be more forthcoming with vetoes. We have already seen this over Syria.For advocates of the responsibility to protect [R2P], the worry should be that there is indeed a legacy of the Libya conflict: China and Russia will presume that the model in future operations is rather regime change under the cloak of R2P, and will be more forthcoming with vetoes. We have already seen this over Syria.