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Syria crisis - live updates Syria crisis - live updates
(40 minutes later)
4.44pm: Here's a round up of the main developments so far today:
Syria
• Syrian government forces kept up heavy weapons fire and siege tactics against opposition strongholds, activists say, despite the regime's reported acceptance of a peace plan calling for the army to withdraw to its barracks.
• Kofi Annan is to visit Syria's ally Iran next week, Iranian state media announced. Turkey's prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan was in Tehran for talks today where he was expected to urge Iran to accept that the Assad regime is doomed.
• All but one of Syria's disparate opposition groups have agreed to unite behind the Syrian National Council after a two day meeting in Istanbul. But Kurdish delegates walked out of the meeting. Meanwhile, the Syrian parliament has urged President Assad to postpone the elections scheduled for 7 May.
• The Arab League is discussing a draft resolution calling on Syria's government to hold talks with the opposition and to end the violence. The draft resolution calls for "serious national dialogue" according to AFP.
Egypt
• The 100-member assembly responsible for drafting a new constitution for Egypt has started work today amid disputes about how representative the body is. Liberals and secularists on the panel have pledged to draft a alternative constitution, the BBC reports.
Yemen
• Gunmen in the southern Yemeni city of Aden have kidnapped a Saudi diplomat. It is unclear if the attack was politically motivated.
4.14pm: Was Britain supplying bullet-proof cars to the Assad regime? At first glance it seems so, judging by the answer to a parliamentary question.4.14pm: Was Britain supplying bullet-proof cars to the Assad regime? At first glance it seems so, judging by the answer to a parliamentary question.
The Press Association reports that Sir John Stanley, chairman of the Commons committee which monitors the arms trade, said a licence had been granted for exporting armoured 4x4 vehicles to Syria – and the licence remains open.The Press Association reports that Sir John Stanley, chairman of the Commons committee which monitors the arms trade, said a licence had been granted for exporting armoured 4x4 vehicles to Syria – and the licence remains open.
But it turns out that the vehicles were never intended for the Syrian regime. Tom Fletcher, Britain's ambassador in Lebanon, has tweeted that they were meant for diplomatic staff protection in Damascus. Apparently most of the vehicles were never sent because embassies closed in the meantime.But it turns out that the vehicles were never intended for the Syrian regime. Tom Fletcher, Britain's ambassador in Lebanon, has tweeted that they were meant for diplomatic staff protection in Damascus. Apparently most of the vehicles were never sent because embassies closed in the meantime.
Thanks @tweets4peace:4x4s (google.com/hostednews/ukp…) were for diplomatic staff protection in Damascus.Embassy closures meant most never entered.Thanks @tweets4peace:4x4s (google.com/hostednews/ukp…) were for diplomatic staff protection in Damascus.Embassy closures meant most never entered.
— Tom Fletcher (@HMATomFletcher) March 28, 2012— Tom Fletcher (@HMATomFletcher) March 28, 2012
3.49pm: Britain's prime minister David Cameron has confirmed that members of the Syrian regime who are subject to sanctions will not be allowed to attend the London Olympics in July, although Syrian athletes will be welcome.3.49pm: Britain's prime minister David Cameron has confirmed that members of the Syrian regime who are subject to sanctions will not be allowed to attend the London Olympics in July, although Syrian athletes will be welcome.
"I don't think we should punish the athletes for the sins of the regime, so Syria will be taking part in the games and that is right," Cameron told reporters, according to a report from AP."I don't think we should punish the athletes for the sins of the regime, so Syria will be taking part in the games and that is right," Cameron told reporters, according to a report from AP.
So far, a total of 41 Syrian organisations and 127 individuals have had EU sanctions imposed upon them.So far, a total of 41 Syrian organisations and 127 individuals have had EU sanctions imposed upon them.
3.31pm: Some 2,500-3,000 Syrians currently in the United States will be entitled to extend their visas by at least 18 months, al-Arabiya reports. This follows a decision to include Syria as a volatile country under the Temporary Protected Status scheme.3.31pm: Some 2,500-3,000 Syrians currently in the United States will be entitled to extend their visas by at least 18 months, al-Arabiya reports. This follows a decision to include Syria as a volatile country under the Temporary Protected Status scheme.
A statement from the US Homeland Security department said: "Conditions in Syria have worsened to the point where Syrian nationals already in the United States would face serious threats to their personal safety if they were to return to their home country."A statement from the US Homeland Security department said: "Conditions in Syria have worsened to the point where Syrian nationals already in the United States would face serious threats to their personal safety if they were to return to their home country."
2.54pm: More than a million Saudis are now receiving unemployment benefit – a 40% increase on the previous month, the labour ministry said today.2.54pm: More than a million Saudis are now receiving unemployment benefit – a 40% increase on the previous month, the labour ministry said today.
The kingdom, which holds more than 20% of the world's known oil reserves, started paying benefits to the jobless last December – 2,000 riyals ($533) a month for up to one year – amid fears that high unemployment could lead to political unrest.The kingdom, which holds more than 20% of the world's known oil reserves, started paying benefits to the jobless last December – 2,000 riyals ($533) a month for up to one year – amid fears that high unemployment could lead to political unrest.
Saudi Arabia's traditional method of containing unemployment, by creating public sector jobs, has become unaffordable because of a decades-long population boom.Saudi Arabia's traditional method of containing unemployment, by creating public sector jobs, has become unaffordable because of a decades-long population boom.
Reuters explains:Reuters explains:
Around 90% of Saudis in work are employed by the government, while 90% of jobs in private companies are filled by around 8m foreigners.Around 90% of Saudis in work are employed by the government, while 90% of jobs in private companies are filled by around 8m foreigners.
Expatriates tend to fill higher-paying technical roles for which many Saudis lack the experience, and very low-paying jobs that many Saudis see as menial.Expatriates tend to fill higher-paying technical roles for which many Saudis lack the experience, and very low-paying jobs that many Saudis see as menial.
In January, labour minister Adel al-Fakeih said the conservative Islamic kingdom needed to create 3m jobs for Saudi nationals by 2015 and 6m jobs by 2030, partly through the "Saudisation" of work now being done by expatriates.In January, labour minister Adel al-Fakeih said the conservative Islamic kingdom needed to create 3m jobs for Saudi nationals by 2015 and 6m jobs by 2030, partly through the "Saudisation" of work now being done by expatriates.
More than 80 percent of people receiving unemployment benefit are women, said SPA [the Saudi press agency]. Despite opposition from powerful religious conservatives, the government is pushing for more Saudi women to enter the job market. It has designated women-only working environments including lingerie and cosmetics shops.More than 80 percent of people receiving unemployment benefit are women, said SPA [the Saudi press agency]. Despite opposition from powerful religious conservatives, the government is pushing for more Saudi women to enter the job market. It has designated women-only working environments including lingerie and cosmetics shops.
2.15pm: Iran's state news agency IRNA has more on next week's visit to Tehran by Kofi Annan.2.15pm: Iran's state news agency IRNA has more on next week's visit to Tehran by Kofi Annan.
It quotes foreign minister Ali Akbar Salehi as saying: "We think that support for Mr. Annan's peace plan by the Arab states, Turkey and the United Nations will help resolve the humanitarian crisis in Syria."It quotes foreign minister Ali Akbar Salehi as saying: "We think that support for Mr. Annan's peace plan by the Arab states, Turkey and the United Nations will help resolve the humanitarian crisis in Syria."

Salehi acknowledged that Iran has differences with the Turkish government on Syria.
Salehi acknowledged that Iran has differences with the Turkish government on Syria.
"But, we are involved in consultations with the friendly Turkish officials to narrow the gap on how to deal with the humanitarian crisis in Syria.""But, we are involved in consultations with the friendly Turkish officials to narrow the gap on how to deal with the humanitarian crisis in Syria."
He cautioned against hasty decisions about Syria and said that leaving a power vacuum in Syria will jeopardize the peace and security of the entire region.He cautioned against hasty decisions about Syria and said that leaving a power vacuum in Syria will jeopardize the peace and security of the entire region.
2.00pm: UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon has urged Syria to implement Annan's six point plan without delay.2.00pm: UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon has urged Syria to implement Annan's six point plan without delay.
His spokesman tweeted:His spokesman tweeted:
#UNSG in #Kuwait urges #Syria to put Annan commitments into immediate effect: "There is no time to waste."#UNSG in #Kuwait urges #Syria to put Annan commitments into immediate effect: "There is no time to waste."
— UN Spokesperson (@UN_Spokesperson) March 28, 2012— UN Spokesperson (@UN_Spokesperson) March 28, 2012
1.32pm: The Qala al-Madiq, an ancient fortress on an outcrop in Hama, has been under continuous attack for the last 17 days, according to an activist in the city.1.32pm: The Qala al-Madiq, an ancient fortress on an outcrop in Hama, has been under continuous attack for the last 17 days, according to an activist in the city.
In a Skype message Abo Ghazi, said: "Even the Castle is on fire and its walls have been hit by shells."In a Skype message Abo Ghazi, said: "Even the Castle is on fire and its walls have been hit by shells."
He added: "After Assad confirmed a ceasefire, the security forces is still attacking the city by shelling the civilians. The security forces will open the fire immediately on any demonstration in Hama. Many wounded people have been taken to field hospitals."He added: "After Assad confirmed a ceasefire, the security forces is still attacking the city by shelling the civilians. The security forces will open the fire immediately on any demonstration in Hama. Many wounded people have been taken to field hospitals."
Video footage filmed from behind rocks on Madiq, purport to show tanks manoeuvring in Hama.Video footage filmed from behind rocks on Madiq, purport to show tanks manoeuvring in Hama.
1.29pm: As Arab League foreign ministers gets down to business at the their summit in Baghdad, Syria has announced that it will reject any initiative that results from the meeting. 1.29pm: As Arab League foreign ministers get down to business at the their summit in Baghdad, Syria has announced that it will reject any initiative that results from the meeting.
In a statement issued to AFP, foreign ministry spokesman Jihad Makdissi said:In a statement issued to AFP, foreign ministry spokesman Jihad Makdissi said:
Syria will not cooperate with any Arab League initiative at any level.Syria will not cooperate with any Arab League initiative at any level.
Since its suspension from the Arab League, Syria has been dealing with member states on a bilateral level.Since its suspension from the Arab League, Syria has been dealing with member states on a bilateral level.
Syria was suspended from the league last November for failing to end its crackdown on protesters.Syria was suspended from the league last November for failing to end its crackdown on protesters.
Interestingly, today's statement made no mention of the six-point plan which Kofi Annan is pursuing diplomatically on behalf of the UN and the Arab League. Yesterday, a spokesman for Annan said Syria had agreed to the plan but so far there has been no word on it from Damascus.Interestingly, today's statement made no mention of the six-point plan which Kofi Annan is pursuing diplomatically on behalf of the UN and the Arab League. Yesterday, a spokesman for Annan said Syria had agreed to the plan but so far there has been no word on it from Damascus.
1.19pm: A brigadier general in Rastan, a opposition stronghold north of Homs, has announced his defection from regime in a video address.1.19pm: A brigadier general in Rastan, a opposition stronghold north of Homs, has announced his defection from regime in a video address.
The latest defection video purports to show Adnan Al-Ahmed joining the Free Syrian Army.The latest defection video purports to show Adnan Al-Ahmed joining the Free Syrian Army.
1.07pm: Here's a round up of the main developments so far today:1.07pm: Here's a round up of the main developments so far today:
SyriaSyria
• Syrian government forces kept up heavy weapons fire and siege tactics against opposition strongholds despite Assad's acceptance of a peace plan calling for the army to withdraw to its barracks, activists claimed. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported military action against towns and villages from the southern province of Deraa to the Hama region. State media said terrorists assassinated a brigadier general in the northern city of Aleppo.• Syrian government forces kept up heavy weapons fire and siege tactics against opposition strongholds despite Assad's acceptance of a peace plan calling for the army to withdraw to its barracks, activists claimed. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported military action against towns and villages from the southern province of Deraa to the Hama region. State media said terrorists assassinated a brigadier general in the northern city of Aleppo.
• Kofi Annan is to visit Syria's ally Iran next week, Iranian state media announced a day after Damascus said it backed the former UN secretary general's six point plan for ending the violence. Turkey's prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan was in Tehran for talks today where he was expected to urge Iran to accept that the Assad regime was doomed.• Kofi Annan is to visit Syria's ally Iran next week, Iranian state media announced a day after Damascus said it backed the former UN secretary general's six point plan for ending the violence. Turkey's prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan was in Tehran for talks today where he was expected to urge Iran to accept that the Assad regime was doomed.
• All but one of Syria's disparate opposition groups have agreed to unite behind the Syrian National Council after a two day meeting in Istanbul. But Kurdish delegates walked out of the meeting. Meanwhile, the Syrian parliament has urged President Assad to postpone the elections scheduled for 7 May.• All but one of Syria's disparate opposition groups have agreed to unite behind the Syrian National Council after a two day meeting in Istanbul. But Kurdish delegates walked out of the meeting. Meanwhile, the Syrian parliament has urged President Assad to postpone the elections scheduled for 7 May.
• The opposition group, the Local Co-ordination Committees in Syria has urged the International Committee of the Red Cross to enter the northern Syrian town of Saraqeb where it claims 40 people have been killed since the start of an army raid on Sunday. Video from the town, and the central town of Rastan, purported to show residential areas ransacked by regime forces.• The opposition group, the Local Co-ordination Committees in Syria has urged the International Committee of the Red Cross to enter the northern Syrian town of Saraqeb where it claims 40 people have been killed since the start of an army raid on Sunday. Video from the town, and the central town of Rastan, purported to show residential areas ransacked by regime forces.
• The Arab League is discussing a draft resolution calling on Syria's government to hold talks with the opposition and to end the violence. The draft resolution calls for "serious national dialogue" according to AFP.• The Arab League is discussing a draft resolution calling on Syria's government to hold talks with the opposition and to end the violence. The draft resolution calls for "serious national dialogue" according to AFP.
• Syrian authorities are systematically targeting children, the United Nations' human rights chief, Navi Pillay, told the BBC. She said: "They've gone for the children - for whatever purposes - in large numbers. Hundreds detained and tortured... it's just horrendous."• Syrian authorities are systematically targeting children, the United Nations' human rights chief, Navi Pillay, told the BBC. She said: "They've gone for the children - for whatever purposes - in large numbers. Hundreds detained and tortured... it's just horrendous."
EgyptEgypt
• The 100-member assembly responsible for drafting a new constitution for Egypt has started work today amid disputes about how representative the body is. Liberals and secularists on the panel have pledged to draft a alternative constitution, the BBC reports.• The 100-member assembly responsible for drafting a new constitution for Egypt has started work today amid disputes about how representative the body is. Liberals and secularists on the panel have pledged to draft a alternative constitution, the BBC reports.
• Western governments have been encouraging the Muslim Brotherhood to consider offering the military generals currently running the country immunity against prosecution. Senior members of the Brotherhood's Freedom and Justice party – Egypt's largest political movement, which holds almost half the seats in the country's new parliament – have told the Guardian that the international community has been covertly lobbying them to strike a deal with Scaf that would provide a "safe exit" for the ruling generals in exchange for a smooth transition to democracy.• Western governments have been encouraging the Muslim Brotherhood to consider offering the military generals currently running the country immunity against prosecution. Senior members of the Brotherhood's Freedom and Justice party – Egypt's largest political movement, which holds almost half the seats in the country's new parliament – have told the Guardian that the international community has been covertly lobbying them to strike a deal with Scaf that would provide a "safe exit" for the ruling generals in exchange for a smooth transition to democracy.
YemenYemen
• Gunmen in the southern Yemeni city of Aden have kidnapped a Saudi diplomat. Police in the city's Mansoura district said the gunmen snatched deputy consul Abdallah al-Khalidi as he was about to get into his car.• Gunmen in the southern Yemeni city of Aden have kidnapped a Saudi diplomat. Police in the city's Mansoura district said the gunmen snatched deputy consul Abdallah al-Khalidi as he was about to get into his car.
12.21pm: The 100-member assembly charged with drafting a new constitution for Egypt has started work today amid disputes about how representative the body is, the BBC reports:12.21pm: The 100-member assembly charged with drafting a new constitution for Egypt has started work today amid disputes about how representative the body is, the BBC reports:
Some liberal and secularists on the panel have promised to draft an alternative.Some liberal and secularists on the panel have promised to draft an alternative.
"We shall undertake this duty from outside the official assembly in collaboration with all the segments of society and experts that should have been included from the beginning," they said ..."We shall undertake this duty from outside the official assembly in collaboration with all the segments of society and experts that should have been included from the beginning," they said ...
12.05pm: Kofi Annan is to visit Iran next week for talks about Syria, the Iranian state news agency says, quoting foreign minister Ali Akbar Salehi.12.05pm: Kofi Annan is to visit Iran next week for talks about Syria, the Iranian state news agency says, quoting foreign minister Ali Akbar Salehi.
11.55am: A brigadier general has been assassinated in Syria's second city Aleppo, according to the state news agency.11.55am: A brigadier general has been assassinated in Syria's second city Aleppo, according to the state news agency.
Sana says General Khleif al-Abdullah from Air Forces was targeted by four terrorists near the al-Bassel Mosque in the city's al-Hamadanyyah neighbourhood.Sana says General Khleif al-Abdullah from Air Forces was targeted by four terrorists near the al-Bassel Mosque in the city's al-Hamadanyyah neighbourhood.
11.40am: All but one of Syria's disparate opposition groups have agreed to unite behind the Syrian National Council, the BBC reports.11.40am: All but one of Syria's disparate opposition groups have agreed to unite behind the Syrian National Council, the BBC reports.
A statement issued after a two-day meeting in Istanbul said the SNC would be the "formal interlocutor and formal representative of the Syrian people".A statement issued after a two-day meeting in Istanbul said the SNC would be the "formal interlocutor and formal representative of the Syrian people".
SNC spokeswoman Basma Kodmani told the BBC: "We needed to build the confidence of countries around the world who want to support the Syrian revolution that this is the organisation that can channel support to the population inside.SNC spokeswoman Basma Kodmani told the BBC: "We needed to build the confidence of countries around the world who want to support the Syrian revolution that this is the organisation that can channel support to the population inside.
"I think this now has been achieved.""I think this now has been achieved."
But the Beirut-based news site al-Akhbar claims the SNC remains fractured after Kurdish delegates stormed out of the meeting.But the Beirut-based news site al-Akhbar claims the SNC remains fractured after Kurdish delegates stormed out of the meeting.
It says:It says:
While an accord was reached on Tuesday, the absence of influential figure Haitham al-Maleh and Kurdish delegates overshadowed the talks.While an accord was reached on Tuesday, the absence of influential figure Haitham al-Maleh and Kurdish delegates overshadowed the talks.
Shortly afterwards, however, al-Maleh, a venerable opposition figure who was jailed by both Assad and his father, walked out after SNC leader Burhan Ghalioun made a pitch for greater unity.Shortly afterwards, however, al-Maleh, a venerable opposition figure who was jailed by both Assad and his father, walked out after SNC leader Burhan Ghalioun made a pitch for greater unity.
"I want to see the council act democratically. Until now, they are acting like the (ruling) Ba'ath Party," Maleh, who withdrew from the SNC last month, told Reuters."I want to see the council act democratically. Until now, they are acting like the (ruling) Ba'ath Party," Maleh, who withdrew from the SNC last month, told Reuters.
Representatives of Syria's Kurds followed suit, saying the SNC had failed to explicitly address Kurdish hopes of having an autonomous federal region within a post-Assad Syria.Representatives of Syria's Kurds followed suit, saying the SNC had failed to explicitly address Kurdish hopes of having an autonomous federal region within a post-Assad Syria.
11.23am: Several hundred Syrians fled across a border fence into Jordan last night, al-Jazeera reports – adding that most of them are now in Jordanian government custody:11.23am: Several hundred Syrians fled across a border fence into Jordan last night, al-Jazeera reports – adding that most of them are now in Jordanian government custody:
Any Syrians crossing into Jordan illegally must hand in their passports and IDs to the local authorities and stay in buildings heavily guarded by police.Any Syrians crossing into Jordan illegally must hand in their passports and IDs to the local authorities and stay in buildings heavily guarded by police.
Last week the New York Times reported that Jordan is preparing a refugee camp in Mafraq, close to the frontier. By mid-March the UN had registered 5,391 Syrian refugees in Jordan, with more than 2,000 others still waiting to register.Last week the New York Times reported that Jordan is preparing a refugee camp in Mafraq, close to the frontier. By mid-March the UN had registered 5,391 Syrian refugees in Jordan, with more than 2,000 others still waiting to register.
The UN's refugee agency estimates that 100,000 could flee Syria over the next six months.The UN's refugee agency estimates that 100,000 could flee Syria over the next six months.
11.15am: Syria-watchers have often argued that economic factors will eventually determine the fate of the Assad regime – though they disagree about how long it will take to reach that point.11.15am: Syria-watchers have often argued that economic factors will eventually determine the fate of the Assad regime – though they disagree about how long it will take to reach that point.
Businesses in Syria, though, are clearly having a hard time. Joshua Landis writes on his blog:Businesses in Syria, though, are clearly having a hard time. Joshua Landis writes on his blog:
One Christian industrialist from Aleppo whom I know is telling his friends that he is leaving Syria. His factory in the northern suburbs has been shut down by the opposition and he is unable to travel there any longer because of military operations. He will abandon his property and has already informed his workers that he cannot keep the factory open and that they must fend for themselves.One Christian industrialist from Aleppo whom I know is telling his friends that he is leaving Syria. His factory in the northern suburbs has been shut down by the opposition and he is unable to travel there any longer because of military operations. He will abandon his property and has already informed his workers that he cannot keep the factory open and that they must fend for themselves.
Another factory owner, whom I know, organized a meeting with opposition leaders in A'zaz, where his factory is located. He could not travel there himself, but delegated a factory administrator who knows the opposition leaders of the town to carry out the talks on his behalf. The factory has already had 300,000 Syrian pounds requisitioned.Another factory owner, whom I know, organized a meeting with opposition leaders in A'zaz, where his factory is located. He could not travel there himself, but delegated a factory administrator who knows the opposition leaders of the town to carry out the talks on his behalf. The factory has already had 300,000 Syrian pounds requisitioned.
The opposition agreed to allowing him to keep the factory open. I do not know what further arrangements were made in order to keep its doors open.The opposition agreed to allowing him to keep the factory open. I do not know what further arrangements were made in order to keep its doors open.
Landis also point to a Foreign Policy article where Beirut-based journalist Katie Paul describes how businesses that were attracted to Syria during the earlier economic liberalisation are now struggling to survive.Landis also point to a Foreign Policy article where Beirut-based journalist Katie Paul describes how businesses that were attracted to Syria during the earlier economic liberalisation are now struggling to survive.
The strain has not gone without notice in the Assad regime's propaganda department, which has tried to convince consumers they can do just fine without the rest of the world ... Billboards are preaching self-sustainability as part of a governmental public awareness campaign to put a euphemistic spin on things: "Let us wear what we weave," the billboards tell Damascenes. "Let us drink what we squeeze", "Let us eat what we grow."The strain has not gone without notice in the Assad regime's propaganda department, which has tried to convince consumers they can do just fine without the rest of the world ... Billboards are preaching self-sustainability as part of a governmental public awareness campaign to put a euphemistic spin on things: "Let us wear what we weave," the billboards tell Damascenes. "Let us drink what we squeeze", "Let us eat what we grow."
11.05am: An opposition group has urged the International Committee of the Red Cross to enter the northern Syrian town of Saraqeb, south-east of Idlib, where it claims 40 people have been killed since the start of an army raid on Sunday.11.05am: An opposition group has urged the International Committee of the Red Cross to enter the northern Syrian town of Saraqeb, south-east of Idlib, where it claims 40 people have been killed since the start of an army raid on Sunday.
The Local Co-ordination Committees in Syria claims there are large number of unidentified corpses in the town's streets.The Local Co-ordination Committees in Syria claims there are large number of unidentified corpses in the town's streets.
Video footage from Saraqeb appeared to back its claim that homes and shops had been burned and pillaged.Video footage from Saraqeb appeared to back its claim that homes and shops had been burned and pillaged.
10.31am: Good to hear that Yemen's 70-year-old snake-dancing ex-president, Ali Abdullah Saleh, is making an effort to keep fit.10.31am: Good to hear that Yemen's 70-year-old snake-dancing ex-president, Ali Abdullah Saleh, is making an effort to keep fit.
A New York Times reader recalls how she was exercising in a hotel gym last February when some obviously secret-service types entered the room. "The next thing I know, they put this older gentleman on the treadmill next to me."A New York Times reader recalls how she was exercising in a hotel gym last February when some obviously secret-service types entered the room. "The next thing I know, they put this older gentleman on the treadmill next to me."
The woman, who had picked up a smattering of Arabic while living in Saudi Arabia, struck up a conversation – though because of her imperfect linguistic skills she fears she may have inadvertently propositioned him.The woman, who had picked up a smattering of Arabic while living in Saudi Arabia, struck up a conversation – though because of her imperfect linguistic skills she fears she may have inadvertently propositioned him.
He asks me a few more questions about how far I'm running ... and then I ask him where he is from. He and the secret service start to laugh, and after a few seconds he tells me that he is from Yemen.He asks me a few more questions about how far I'm running ... and then I ask him where he is from. He and the secret service start to laugh, and after a few seconds he tells me that he is from Yemen.
After parting ways, I go back to my room and Google "Yemen official in NYC," and his picture and name pops up. He's the president of Yemen, here for medical treatment.After parting ways, I go back to my room and Google "Yemen official in NYC," and his picture and name pops up. He's the president of Yemen, here for medical treatment.
10.20am: Channel 4 News has broadcast footage showing activists in Homs embellishing reports of violence in staged videos.10.20am: Channel 4 News has broadcast footage showing activists in Homs embellishing reports of violence in staged videos.
In one clip activist Omar Telawi reported from a rooftop purporting to show the smouldering remains of shelled homes behind. It turned out that the smoke came tyres set light by activists, the Channel 4 News report claimed. It said such embellishment was unnecessary as the city was coming under bombardment.In one clip activist Omar Telawi reported from a rooftop purporting to show the smouldering remains of shelled homes behind. It turned out that the smoke came tyres set light by activists, the Channel 4 News report claimed. It said such embellishment was unnecessary as the city was coming under bombardment.

Telawi acknowledged the staged report, but claimed it was necessary to make the world take notice.

Telawi acknowledged the staged report, but claimed it was necessary to make the world take notice.

10.02am: Gunmen in the southern Yemeni city of Aden have kidnapped a Saudi diplomat, AFP reports.10.02am: Gunmen in the southern Yemeni city of Aden have kidnapped a Saudi diplomat, AFP reports.
Police in the city's Mansoura district said the gunmen snatched deputy consul Abdallah al-Khalidi, as he was about to get into his car and sped off with him in another vehicle.Police in the city's Mansoura district said the gunmen snatched deputy consul Abdallah al-Khalidi, as he was about to get into his car and sped off with him in another vehicle.
9.39am: The international motor racing body, the FIA, is emphatically denying that the controversial Bahrain Grand Prix, scheduled for next month, will be cancelled because of continuing disturbances in the Gulf kingdom.9.39am: The international motor racing body, the FIA, is emphatically denying that the controversial Bahrain Grand Prix, scheduled for next month, will be cancelled because of continuing disturbances in the Gulf kingdom.
Rumours of an impending cancellation have been circulating on Twitter and appear to be based on a story on the F1Today website which was attributed to unnamed "sources in the paddock".Rumours of an impending cancellation have been circulating on Twitter and appear to be based on a story on the F1Today website which was attributed to unnamed "sources in the paddock".
Sheikh Abdullah bin Isa al-Khalifa, president of Bahrain's Automobile Federation had also been quoted as saying he was unable to offer guarantees over safety for the grand prix but his remarks seem to have been misinterpreted. He said there would be no special increase in security but visitors would be "as safe as at any other grand prix".Sheikh Abdullah bin Isa al-Khalifa, president of Bahrain's Automobile Federation had also been quoted as saying he was unable to offer guarantees over safety for the grand prix but his remarks seem to have been misinterpreted. He said there would be no special increase in security but visitors would be "as safe as at any other grand prix".
Since then, two other websites, F1 Cities and Top Car, have published statements from Norman Howell, the FIA's director of the communications, saying there is no truth at all in the cancellation rumours.Since then, two other websites, F1 Cities and Top Car, have published statements from Norman Howell, the FIA's director of the communications, saying there is no truth at all in the cancellation rumours.
The grand prix was not held in Bahrain last year because of unrest and opposition elements have been hoping for the cancellation of this year's event too. The regime has been accused of using it to gloss over political divisions in the kingdom – including the choice of slogan: "Unif1ed - One Nation in Celebration".The grand prix was not held in Bahrain last year because of unrest and opposition elements have been hoping for the cancellation of this year's event too. The regime has been accused of using it to gloss over political divisions in the kingdom – including the choice of slogan: "Unif1ed - One Nation in Celebration".
9.32am: Turkey's prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has travelled to Iran for talks about Syria and Tehran's nuclear programme, AP reports.9.32am: Turkey's prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has travelled to Iran for talks about Syria and Tehran's nuclear programme, AP reports.
Erdogan is expected to urge the Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to accept that that regime change is inevitable in Syria, according to the Turkish daily Zaman.Erdogan is expected to urge the Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to accept that that regime change is inevitable in Syria, according to the Turkish daily Zaman.
Turkey is due to host the second Friends of Syria meeting on Sunday.Turkey is due to host the second Friends of Syria meeting on Sunday.
9.13am: Three government soldiers have been killed in clashes with rebels in Rastan north of Homs, AP reports citing the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.9.13am: Three government soldiers have been killed in clashes with rebels in Rastan north of Homs, AP reports citing the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
It said clashes broke out today when government forces tried to enter Rastan.It said clashes broke out today when government forces tried to enter Rastan.
Yesterday activists posted footage of civilian houses in Rastan which they claimed had been shelled by government forces.Yesterday activists posted footage of civilian houses in Rastan which they claimed had been shelled by government forces.
Another clip from Rastan claimed to show Free Syrian Army fighters handing over released prisoners to their families.Another clip from Rastan claimed to show Free Syrian Army fighters handing over released prisoners to their families.
8.47am: Peter Harling from the International Crisis Group - one of the most respected experts on the crisis in Syria - is due to give a talk at the Council for Arab-British Understanding in London today.8.47am: Peter Harling from the International Crisis Group - one of the most respected experts on the crisis in Syria - is due to give a talk at the Council for Arab-British Understanding in London today.
We'll be popping along, so if you have any questions for Harling we'll try to put them to him. Please post suggestions in the comments section below.We'll be popping along, so if you have any questions for Harling we'll try to put them to him. Please post suggestions in the comments section below.
In his most recent report on Syria, Harling argued that Kofi Annan's mission to Syria represented the last chance of a negotiated settlement to the crisis. The report also criticised western interference and wishful thinking on Syria.In his most recent report on Syria, Harling argued that Kofi Annan's mission to Syria represented the last chance of a negotiated settlement to the crisis. The report also criticised western interference and wishful thinking on Syria.
In an earlier report in November, Harling warned of the increasing militarisation of the opposition.In an earlier report in November, Harling warned of the increasing militarisation of the opposition.
8.43am: The Syrian parliament – the People's Assembly – has urged President Assad to postpone the elections scheduled for 7 May, according to the official news agency, Sana.8.43am: The Syrian parliament – the People's Assembly – has urged President Assad to postpone the elections scheduled for 7 May, according to the official news agency, Sana.
The elections are part of a reform programme announced by Assad which he privately described as "rubbish" in an email to his wife. Sana says MPs want to delay the poll "so that the comprehensive reforms are consolidated, waiting for the outcome of the comprehensive national dialogue and empowering the licensed parties in light of the new parties law".The elections are part of a reform programme announced by Assad which he privately described as "rubbish" in an email to his wife. Sana says MPs want to delay the poll "so that the comprehensive reforms are consolidated, waiting for the outcome of the comprehensive national dialogue and empowering the licensed parties in light of the new parties law".
These would be the first elections since the constitution was changed, removing a reference to the ruling Ba'ath party as "the leading party in the society and the state". In theory that could allow one or more opposition parties to form a government if they won enough seats.These would be the first elections since the constitution was changed, removing a reference to the ruling Ba'ath party as "the leading party in the society and the state". In theory that could allow one or more opposition parties to form a government if they won enough seats.
However, new parties are ill-prepared for an election on 7 May. The latest party to be recognised by the regime, "Syria al-Watan", was granted its licence only last Sunday. So far, nine parties have been licensed, in addition to those allied to the Ba'ath party under the umbrella of the National Progressive Front.However, new parties are ill-prepared for an election on 7 May. The latest party to be recognised by the regime, "Syria al-Watan", was granted its licence only last Sunday. So far, nine parties have been licensed, in addition to those allied to the Ba'ath party under the umbrella of the National Progressive Front.
Meanwhile, the head of the elections committee, Khalaf al-Azzawi, says "all provinces are witnessing good turnout of candidates" – though the nomination period has been extended for another week "for citizens to get the required documents and for those who are outside the country to come back".Meanwhile, the head of the elections committee, Khalaf al-Azzawi, says "all provinces are witnessing good turnout of candidates" – though the nomination period has been extended for another week "for citizens to get the required documents and for those who are outside the country to come back".
Would-be candidates have to submit their applications to provincial governors. A nominations committee will then consider them and decide whether the candidates are suitable or not.Would-be candidates have to submit their applications to provincial governors. A nominations committee will then consider them and decide whether the candidates are suitable or not.
8.20am: (all times BST) Welcome to Middle East Live. Clashes are reported to be continuing in Syria despite an apparent acceptance of Kofi Annan's peace plan by the government of president Bashar al-Assad.8.20am: (all times BST) Welcome to Middle East Live. Clashes are reported to be continuing in Syria despite an apparent acceptance of Kofi Annan's peace plan by the government of president Bashar al-Assad.
Here's a roundup of the main developments in the region:Here's a roundup of the main developments in the region:
SyriaSyria
• Syria's acceptance of a UN-backed plan to end the country's bloody crisis has triggered sceptical responses and concern that Assad is trying to buy time and divide his opponents. On a day that a smiling Assad visited Baba Amr, the Homs suburb which has seen hundreds killed by his security forces in recent weeks, and the UN revised its estimate of Syria's death toll to more than 9,000 over the last year, no one was hailing an imminent breakthrough.• Syria's acceptance of a UN-backed plan to end the country's bloody crisis has triggered sceptical responses and concern that Assad is trying to buy time and divide his opponents. On a day that a smiling Assad visited Baba Amr, the Homs suburb which has seen hundreds killed by his security forces in recent weeks, and the UN revised its estimate of Syria's death toll to more than 9,000 over the last year, no one was hailing an imminent breakthrough.
• Syrian authorities are systematically targeting children, the United Nations' human rights chief, Navi Pillay, told the BBC.• Syrian authorities are systematically targeting children, the United Nations' human rights chief, Navi Pillay, told the BBC.
They've gone for the children - for whatever purposes - in large numbers. Hundreds detained and tortured... it's just horrendous. Children shot in the knees, held together with adults in really inhumane conditions, denied medical treatment for their injuries, either held as hostages or as sources of information. Factually there's enough evidence pointing to the fact that many of these acts are committed by the security forces [and] must have received the approval or the complicity at the highest level. Because President Assad could simply issue an order to stop the killings and the killings would stop.They've gone for the children - for whatever purposes - in large numbers. Hundreds detained and tortured... it's just horrendous. Children shot in the knees, held together with adults in really inhumane conditions, denied medical treatment for their injuries, either held as hostages or as sources of information. Factually there's enough evidence pointing to the fact that many of these acts are committed by the security forces [and] must have received the approval or the complicity at the highest level. Because President Assad could simply issue an order to stop the killings and the killings would stop.
• On the eve of its summit in Baghdad, the Arab League is discussing a draft resolution calling on Syria's government to hold talks with the opposition and to end the violence, AFP reports.• On the eve of its summit in Baghdad, the Arab League is discussing a draft resolution calling on Syria's government to hold talks with the opposition and to end the violence, AFP reports.
The draft resolution, a copy of which was obtained by AFP, urges the "Syrian government and all opposition factions to deal positively with the (UN-Arab League) envoy (Kofi Annan) by starting serious national dialogue."The draft resolution, a copy of which was obtained by AFP, urges the "Syrian government and all opposition factions to deal positively with the (UN-Arab League) envoy (Kofi Annan) by starting serious national dialogue."
It also calls on the Syrian opposition "to unify its ranks and prepare... to enter into serious dialogue (with the regime) to achieve the democratic life which is demanded by the Syrian people."It also calls on the Syrian opposition "to unify its ranks and prepare... to enter into serious dialogue (with the regime) to achieve the democratic life which is demanded by the Syrian people."
• Assad still thinks he can hang on and views the Annan plan as a step towards regaining international acceptance, argues Syria specialist Joshua Landis.• Assad still thinks he can hang on and views the Annan plan as a step towards regaining international acceptance, argues Syria specialist Joshua Landis.
The new UN peace plan does not insist on Assad handing over power to the revolutionary leadership, which is why Assad finds it acceptable and why the opposition has denounced it.The new UN peace plan does not insist on Assad handing over power to the revolutionary leadership, which is why Assad finds it acceptable and why the opposition has denounced it.
And speaking on Bloggingheads TV, Landis argues that non-intervention will be less damaging in the long run because Syria has to go through a nation building process.And speaking on Bloggingheads TV, Landis argues that non-intervention will be less damaging in the long run because Syria has to go through a nation building process.
He said:He said:
Syria needs a George Washington [figure]. America can't invent one for them and expect him to get any respect inside Syria. He's going to have to get that respect on the battlefield by defeating this regime.Syria needs a George Washington [figure]. America can't invent one for them and expect him to get any respect inside Syria. He's going to have to get that respect on the battlefield by defeating this regime.
EgyptEgypt
• Western governments have been encouraging the Muslim Brotherhood to consider offering the military generals currently running the country immunity against prosecution. Senior members of the Brotherhood's Freedom and Justice party – Egypt's largest political movement, which holds almost half the seats in the country's new parliament – have told the Guardian that the international community has been covertly lobbying them to strike a deal with Scaf that would provide a "safe exit" for the ruling generals in exchange for a smooth transition to democracy.• Western governments have been encouraging the Muslim Brotherhood to consider offering the military generals currently running the country immunity against prosecution. Senior members of the Brotherhood's Freedom and Justice party – Egypt's largest political movement, which holds almost half the seats in the country's new parliament – have told the Guardian that the international community has been covertly lobbying them to strike a deal with Scaf that would provide a "safe exit" for the ruling generals in exchange for a smooth transition to democracy.
LibyaLibya
• Up to 50 people were killed in clashes between rival militias in the southern city of Sabha, the Libya Herald reports. The number of wounded is put at 60. The dead are said to include the leader of the Sebha Martyrs Brigade, Issa Abdurrahman, who was wounded in the fighting on Tuesday.• Up to 50 people were killed in clashes between rival militias in the southern city of Sabha, the Libya Herald reports. The number of wounded is put at 60. The dead are said to include the leader of the Sebha Martyrs Brigade, Issa Abdurrahman, who was wounded in the fighting on Tuesday.