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Syrian forces raid university – live updates Syrian forces raid university – Thursday 3 May
(40 minutes later)
4.59pm: Here's a summary of today's main developments:
Syria
• At least four students have been killed after security services stormed dorms at Aleppo University, activists and opposition groups said. Dozens more were injured and scores arrested, according to the reports. The Local Coordination Committees activist group put the death toll at seven, including a student it said was thrown from a fifth-floor window by pro-Assad thugs. Others said four people were killed. The university announced that it was suspending classes until exam finals on 13 May "due to the current situation".
• Thousands of people attended the funeral of Ismail Haidar, the son of the leader of a Syrian opposition party, who was killed on Wednesday. Both sides appeared to blame each other for his slaying. The state news agency reported that Haidar, son of Syrian Social Nationalist party (SSNP) leader Ali Haidar, was in a car with another party member, who was also killed, when an "armed terrorist group" - words it commonly uses to describe opposition fighters - opened fire with machine guns on the road between Homs and Masyaf. The Local Coordination Committees described him as a martyr, implying that the security services were responsible. A SSNP member told al-Akhbar that the party, which calls for democratic change and rejects the militarisation of the uprising, has enemies on both sides.
• The Syrian government imported $167m-worth of air defence systems and missiles and a further $1m of small arms and ammunition in the months before it began the crackdown on opposition activists, a report by the charity Oxfam says.
• Two sons of Fayez Sara, a prominent opposition figure, have been arrested and taken to an unknown location, he told AFP. Sara, who co-founded the Association of Syrian Journalists in February, told the news agency the security forces did not produce an arrest warrant or specify any charges against them.
Egypt
• The military rulers have expressed sorrow for the bloodshed in Abbasiya but said protesters should have demonstrated in Tahrir Square instead. At a press conference on the violence, they also insisted they were committed to handing over power by 30 June.
Tunisia
• The head of Nessma TV, Nabil Karoui, has been fined 2,400 dinars (about $1,500) for broadcasting the award-winning film, Persepolis, after being convicted of a public order offence. Hedi Boughnim, who dubbed the film into Tunisian dialect, was also fined 1,200 dinars (about $750).
4.57pm: Syria: A video has been posted of the head of the UN observer mission, Maj Gen Robert Mood, meeting activists and soldiers who have defected, in Homs.
Talking to solidiers from the Free Syrian Army, he can he heard saying:
I have tremendous respect for the aspirations of the Syrian people ...I have respect for what the people are trying to achieve but based on my mandate and based on my beliefs, I think all of us have to find [a way] and contribute to make that happen.
4.19pm: Syria: The Local Coordination Committees activist group says the death toll at Aleppo University has risen to seven. Its reports cannot be independently verified.4.19pm: Syria: The Local Coordination Committees activist group says the death toll at Aleppo University has risen to seven. Its reports cannot be independently verified.
The LCC claims that a total of 22 people have been killed by the security forces in Syria today. It says the other deaths were in Homs (six), Damascus suburbs (three), Deraa and Hama (two each). One person was killed in each of Idlib and al-Hasakeh, according to the LCC.The LCC claims that a total of 22 people have been killed by the security forces in Syria today. It says the other deaths were in Homs (six), Damascus suburbs (three), Deraa and Hama (two each). One person was killed in each of Idlib and al-Hasakeh, according to the LCC.
4.13pm: Syria: Brown Moses, blogger and regular BTL commenter on Middle East Live, claims to have exposed what he labels "Syrian regime propaganda at work" on the pro-Assad Syrian TV channel Addounia TV.4.13pm: Syria: Brown Moses, blogger and regular BTL commenter on Middle East Live, claims to have exposed what he labels "Syrian regime propaganda at work" on the pro-Assad Syrian TV channel Addounia TV.
Writing about this video, he says:Writing about this video, he says:
The gentleman in the video is an Algerian claiming to be staying in Homs, and denounces the "fake" footage of Homs being shown on al-Jazeera Arabic, filming both the television to show the al-Jazeera footage of Homs, and outside his hotel window, "proving" the al-Jazeera footage is "fake".The gentleman in the video is an Algerian claiming to be staying in Homs, and denounces the "fake" footage of Homs being shown on al-Jazeera Arabic, filming both the television to show the al-Jazeera footage of Homs, and outside his hotel window, "proving" the al-Jazeera footage is "fake".
Unfortunately for our dimwitted Algerian friend he makes a few key mistakes while filming the video. One thing you should always avoid doing if you are going to pretend to be somewhere you are not is giving the viewer a chance to figure out where you actually are, such as clearly filming the lay out of streets and buildings, or filming signs with phone numbers on them that include the area code.Unfortunately for our dimwitted Algerian friend he makes a few key mistakes while filming the video. One thing you should always avoid doing if you are going to pretend to be somewhere you are not is giving the viewer a chance to figure out where you actually are, such as clearly filming the lay out of streets and buildings, or filming signs with phone numbers on them that include the area code.
Having examined the area code, the street layout and position of the buildings and trees, Brown Moses claims to have pinpointed where the video was actually filmed ...in Damascus.Having examined the area code, the street layout and position of the buildings and trees, Brown Moses claims to have pinpointed where the video was actually filmed ...in Damascus.
4.03pm: Yemen: A second relative of ex-president Saleh holding a key military post has been persuaded to quit, AFP reports.4.03pm: Yemen: A second relative of ex-president Saleh holding a key military post has been persuaded to quit, AFP reports.
General Tariq Mohammed Abdullah Saleh, a nephew of the ex-president, finally gave up his command of the presidential guard today after resisting his dismissal for a month, UN envoy Jamal Benomar is reported as saying.General Tariq Mohammed Abdullah Saleh, a nephew of the ex-president, finally gave up his command of the presidential guard today after resisting his dismissal for a month, UN envoy Jamal Benomar is reported as saying.
Last month, the air force chief, General Mohammed Saleh al-Ahmar – a half-brother of the ex-president – stepped down after also resisting dismissal for several weeks.Last month, the air force chief, General Mohammed Saleh al-Ahmar – a half-brother of the ex-president – stepped down after also resisting dismissal for several weeks.
AFP says the ex-president's nephew rejected an alternative posting to the distant province of Hadramawt.AFP says the ex-president's nephew rejected an alternative posting to the distant province of Hadramawt.
3.45pm: Syria: Aleppo University has said (Arabic link) that "due to the current situation" classes have been suspended until exam finals on 13 May. It says:3.45pm: Syria: Aleppo University has said (Arabic link) that "due to the current situation" classes have been suspended until exam finals on 13 May. It says:
Dear students, due to the current situation, classes of theory-based majors will be suspended until the beginning of exams. Classes of practice-based majors and institutes will be suspended until 13 May 2012, in order for the practice-based exams to take place.Dear students, due to the current situation, classes of theory-based majors will be suspended until the beginning of exams. Classes of practice-based majors and institutes will be suspended until 13 May 2012, in order for the practice-based exams to take place.
English translation via al-akhbar.English translation via al-akhbar.
3.37pm: Syria: Two sons of a prominent opposition figure have been arrested, AFP reports.3.37pm: Syria: Two sons of a prominent opposition figure have been arrested, AFP reports.
Fayez Sara, who co-founded the Association of Syrian Journalists in February, told the news agency that he does not know where his sons were taken.Fayez Sara, who co-founded the Association of Syrian Journalists in February, told the news agency that he does not know where his sons were taken.
"Security forces stormed the apartment where the brothers live at 6am (4am BST). They broke down the door looking for weapons and took Bassam, 37, and Wissam, 26," Sara told AFP by telephone."Security forces stormed the apartment where the brothers live at 6am (4am BST). They broke down the door looking for weapons and took Bassam, 37, and Wissam, 26," Sara told AFP by telephone.
According to the activist, "the security forces did not present an arrest warrant or disclose the charges." His sons who suffer from health problems were "not allowed to take their medication with them."According to the activist, "the security forces did not present an arrest warrant or disclose the charges." His sons who suffer from health problems were "not allowed to take their medication with them."
3.23pm: Syria: The funeral has been taking place in Masyaf of Ismail Haidar, the son of Ali Haidar, the leader of the opposition Syrian Social National party (SSNP). Haidar, and another party member, were killed when machine guns fired at the car they were travelling (see 10.57am) in on the road between Homs and Masyaf. The state news agency blamed an "armed terrorist group", which it routinely uses to describe opposition fighters.3.23pm: Syria: The funeral has been taking place in Masyaf of Ismail Haidar, the son of Ali Haidar, the leader of the opposition Syrian Social National party (SSNP). Haidar, and another party member, were killed when machine guns fired at the car they were travelling (see 10.57am) in on the road between Homs and Masyaf. The state news agency blamed an "armed terrorist group", which it routinely uses to describe opposition fighters.
But the Local Coordination Committtees, which only records deaths it says have occurred at the hands of the security forces, featured photographs of his funeral on its website and described him as a martyr.But the Local Coordination Committtees, which only records deaths it says have occurred at the hands of the security forces, featured photographs of his funeral on its website and described him as a martyr.
3.12pm: Syria: A student named as Samer Qawas, a first year Islamic studies student from Idib, died after being thrown from the fifth floor of a dorm at Aleppo University by Shabiha (pro-government militia), the Local Coordination Committees activist group claims. The Guardian cannot independently verify the LCC's reports.3.12pm: Syria: A student named as Samer Qawas, a first year Islamic studies student from Idib, died after being thrown from the fifth floor of a dorm at Aleppo University by Shabiha (pro-government militia), the Local Coordination Committees activist group claims. The Guardian cannot independently verify the LCC's reports.
3.01pm: Bahrain: The government's Orwellian-style celebration of World Press Freedom day continues. The official news agency has now issued the full text of King Hamad's speech (see 9.23am) on the "blossoming" of media freedom. The interior ministry has also joined in, on Twitter:3.01pm: Bahrain: The government's Orwellian-style celebration of World Press Freedom day continues. The official news agency has now issued the full text of King Hamad's speech (see 9.23am) on the "blossoming" of media freedom. The interior ministry has also joined in, on Twitter:
MOI wishes happy World Press Freedom Day to Bahrain's press & hails its distinguished national roleMOI wishes happy World Press Freedom Day to Bahrain's press & hails its distinguished national role
— Ministry of Interior (@moi_bahrain) May 3, 2012— Ministry of Interior (@moi_bahrain) May 3, 2012
Another Twitter user, though, is not impressed:Another Twitter user, though, is not impressed:
#Bahrain's King Hamad gives a Gaddafi/Mugabe style speech celebrating International Day for Press Freedom.. Must read bna.bh/portal/en/news…#Bahrain's King Hamad gives a Gaddafi/Mugabe style speech celebrating International Day for Press Freedom.. Must read bna.bh/portal/en/news…
— Chan'ad Bahraini (@chanadbh) May 2, 2012— Chan'ad Bahraini (@chanadbh) May 2, 2012
King Hamad, incidentally, is listed by Reporters Without Borders as one of the world's leading "predators of freedom of information". It says on its website:King Hamad, incidentally, is listed by Reporters Without Borders as one of the world's leading "predators of freedom of information". It says on its website:
Since the start of the country's pro-democracy movement in February last year, the government has tried to control news about the protests and the excesses of police and troops towards the protesters by using a formidable array of weapons.Since the start of the country's pro-democracy movement in February last year, the government has tried to control news about the protests and the excesses of police and troops towards the protesters by using a formidable array of weapons.
Foreign journalists have been arrested and deported, and others have encountered severe difficulties in obtaining entry visas, Bahrainis wanting to tell foreign news organizstions what is happening have been threatened ...Foreign journalists have been arrested and deported, and others have encountered severe difficulties in obtaining entry visas, Bahrainis wanting to tell foreign news organizstions what is happening have been threatened ...
Free-speech activists have been hounded and prosecuted, photographers, bloggers and netizens arrested (one of them dying in prison), journalists forced to resign from the main opposition paper and called before the state prosecutor, and printing any news about ongoing investigations by the military prosecutor banned for supposed national security reasons. The media blackout has been accompanied by a big regime propaganda campaign, through media it controls, against major protest leaders, who are dubbed traitors or terrorists.Free-speech activists have been hounded and prosecuted, photographers, bloggers and netizens arrested (one of them dying in prison), journalists forced to resign from the main opposition paper and called before the state prosecutor, and printing any news about ongoing investigations by the military prosecutor banned for supposed national security reasons. The media blackout has been accompanied by a big regime propaganda campaign, through media it controls, against major protest leaders, who are dubbed traitors or terrorists.
The government media also has a history of making up quotes that appear to show support for the regime's policies from international organisations and figures.The government media also has a history of making up quotes that appear to show support for the regime's policies from international organisations and figures.
2.46pm: Syria: The UN observer mission has been in Homs today.

Their visit was livestreamed on Bambuser.		2.46pm: Syria: The UN observer mission has been in Homs today.

Their visit was livestreamed on Bambuser.
Homs-based activist @BigAlBrand tweets:Homs-based activist @BigAlBrand tweets:
The head of the UN observers' team in Syria is now in Homs. That explains the lack of shelling and gunfire.The head of the UN observers' team in Syria is now in Homs. That explains the lack of shelling and gunfire.
— Big Al (@BigAlBrand) May 3, 2012— Big Al (@BigAlBrand) May 3, 2012
AP says the head of the UN observers, Norwegian Major General Robert Mood, also visited Hama today:AP says the head of the UN observers, Norwegian Major General Robert Mood, also visited Hama today:
Reporters accompanying the observers on the tour interviewed residents who said life was fairly normal during the day but was worrisome at night.Reporters accompanying the observers on the tour interviewed residents who said life was fairly normal during the day but was worrisome at night.
"The situation is calm during the day but scary at night," said Maher Jerjous, a 53-year-old resident of the Bab al-Quba district in Hama. "Masked gunmen ... roam the streets. There are kidnappings on public roads. You will not see anyone (on the streets) after six.""The situation is calm during the day but scary at night," said Maher Jerjous, a 53-year-old resident of the Bab al-Quba district in Hama. "Masked gunmen ... roam the streets. There are kidnappings on public roads. You will not see anyone (on the streets) after six."
2.31pm: Syria: More videos are emerging from Aleppo, both from today and last night. Activists say security forces are continuing with arrests of students.

This one shows students being led away by security forces.
2.31pm: Syria: More videos are emerging from Aleppo, both from today and last night. Activists say security forces are continuing with arrests of students.

This one shows students being led away by security forces.
This one, purportedly filmed today, shows members of the security forces brandishing batons arriving at the university.This one, purportedly filmed today, shows members of the security forces brandishing batons arriving at the university.

This video, of a demonstration, was reportedly filmed at the university's faculty of literature today.
This video, of a demonstration, was reportedly filmed at the university's faculty of literature today.
The university has reportedly suspended lectures following the bloodshed.The university has reportedly suspended lectures following the bloodshed.
This video shows students standing with suitcases outside the university gates.This video shows students standing with suitcases outside the university gates.
Another video purports to show the security forces moving into the university last night.Another video purports to show the security forces moving into the university last night.
Finally, this video is said to show the wreckage in the dorms after last night's raid.Finally, this video is said to show the wreckage in the dorms after last night's raid.
1.19pm: Egypt: The ruling military council is committed to handing over power to a civilian administration by 1 July as it promised, the Associated Press reports, citing a senior member of the council.1.19pm: Egypt: The ruling military council is committed to handing over power to a civilian administration by 1 July as it promised, the Associated Press reports, citing a senior member of the council.
The announcement came a day after deadly clashes between protesters and assailants left at least 11 dead in Cairo, prompting some politicians to voice fears that the military might use the violence as a pretext to ignore its own deadline to relinquish control of the country.The announcement came a day after deadly clashes between protesters and assailants left at least 11 dead in Cairo, prompting some politicians to voice fears that the military might use the violence as a pretext to ignore its own deadline to relinquish control of the country.
Maj Gen Mohammed al-Asar also told reporters that the military will ensure the integrity and fairness of presidential elections scheduled for May 23-24.Maj Gen Mohammed al-Asar also told reporters that the military will ensure the integrity and fairness of presidential elections scheduled for May 23-24.
The military took over after a popular uprising ousted Egypt's authoritarian leader Hosni Mubarak in February 2011. But in over a year in power, it has been accused of badly bungling the transition, killing protesters, hauling more than 10,000 civilians to trial before military tribunals and of scheming to enshrine a political role for itself after handing over power.The military took over after a popular uprising ousted Egypt's authoritarian leader Hosni Mubarak in February 2011. But in over a year in power, it has been accused of badly bungling the transition, killing protesters, hauling more than 10,000 civilians to trial before military tribunals and of scheming to enshrine a political role for itself after handing over power.
"We say it frankly and clearly, the armed forces and their supreme council are committed to the handover of power on June 30," al-Asar said. "We don't desire power. The Supreme Council (of the Armed Forces) is not a substitute for legitimacy in Egypt.""We say it frankly and clearly, the armed forces and their supreme council are committed to the handover of power on June 30," al-Asar said. "We don't desire power. The Supreme Council (of the Armed Forces) is not a substitute for legitimacy in Egypt."
1.00pm: Here's a summary of the main developments so far today.1.00pm: Here's a summary of the main developments so far today.
SyriaSyria
• At least four students have been killed after security services stormed dorms at Aleppo University, activists and opposition groups said. Dozens more were injured and scores arrested, according to the reports. There have numerous clashes at the university and the assault followed the biggest demonstration there since the beginning of the uprising, according to an opposition website.• At least four students have been killed after security services stormed dorms at Aleppo University, activists and opposition groups said. Dozens more were injured and scores arrested, according to the reports. There have numerous clashes at the university and the assault followed the biggest demonstration there since the beginning of the uprising, according to an opposition website.
• The son of the leader of a Syrian opposition party has been killed, the state news agency reported, blaming an armed terrorist group. Ismail Haidar, son of Syrian Social Nationalist party (SSNP) leader Ali Haidar was with another party member, who was also killed, when machine guns opened fire on their car on the road between Homs and Masyaf. A SSNP member told al-Akhbar that the party, which calls for democratic change and rejects the militarisation of the uprising, has enemies on both sides.• The son of the leader of a Syrian opposition party has been killed, the state news agency reported, blaming an armed terrorist group. Ismail Haidar, son of Syrian Social Nationalist party (SSNP) leader Ali Haidar was with another party member, who was also killed, when machine guns opened fire on their car on the road between Homs and Masyaf. A SSNP member told al-Akhbar that the party, which calls for democratic change and rejects the militarisation of the uprising, has enemies on both sides.
• The Syrian government imported $167m-worth of air defence systems and missiles and a further $1m of small arms and ammunition in the months before it began the crackdown on opposition activists, a report by the charity Oxfam says.• The Syrian government imported $167m-worth of air defence systems and missiles and a further $1m of small arms and ammunition in the months before it began the crackdown on opposition activists, a report by the charity Oxfam says.
EgyptEgypt
• The military rulers have expressed sorrow for the bloodshed in Abbasiya but said protesters should have demonstrated in Tahrir Square instead. At a press conference on the violence, they also insisted they were committed to handing over power by 30 June.• The military rulers have expressed sorrow for the bloodshed in Abbasiya but said protesters should have demonstrated in Tahrir Square instead. At a press conference on the violence, they also insisted they were committed to handing over power by 30 June.
TunisiaTunisia
• The head of Nessma TV, Nabil Karoui, has been fined 2,400 dinars (about $1,500) for broadcasting the award-winning film, Persepolis, after being convicted of a public order offence. Hedi Boughnim, who dubbed the film into Tunisian dialect, was also fined 1,200 dinars (about $750).• The head of Nessma TV, Nabil Karoui, has been fined 2,400 dinars (about $1,500) for broadcasting the award-winning film, Persepolis, after being convicted of a public order offence. Hedi Boughnim, who dubbed the film into Tunisian dialect, was also fined 1,200 dinars (about $750).
12.29pm: Syria: More arrests are being carried out at the campus of Aleppo University - where activists say at least four students were killed earlier today and scores arrested by government forces - according to the Local Coordination Committees opposition group.12.29pm: Syria: More arrests are being carried out at the campus of Aleppo University - where activists say at least four students were killed earlier today and scores arrested by government forces - according to the Local Coordination Committees opposition group.
12.08pm: Syria: The assault by the security forces at Aleppo University last night followed the largest anti-regime demonstration at the university to date, the opposition website al-Ayyam says.12.08pm: Syria: The assault by the security forces at Aleppo University last night followed the largest anti-regime demonstration at the university to date, the opposition website al-Ayyam says.
This video purports to show the demonstration yesterday.This video purports to show the demonstration yesterday.
Al-Ayyam says:Al-Ayyam says:
The protest drew many students and was the largest protest at Aleppo University to date. Security forces arrived quickly on the scene and assaulted the protesting students forcing them to disperse and fold back.The protest drew many students and was the largest protest at Aleppo University to date. Security forces arrived quickly on the scene and assaulted the protesting students forcing them to disperse and fold back.
The main assault [was] overnight. The students started another protest in the university's housing complex. They launched the protest from their rooms. Witnesses report that three buses carrying security forces and Shabbiha [pro-regime thugs] surrounded and laid siege to the housing complex. The attack started shortly after midnight Thursday and lasted about an hour.The main assault [was] overnight. The students started another protest in the university's housing complex. They launched the protest from their rooms. Witnesses report that three buses carrying security forces and Shabbiha [pro-regime thugs] surrounded and laid siege to the housing complex. The attack started shortly after midnight Thursday and lasted about an hour.
Security forces stormed the complex with five military vehicles while firing from mounted machine guns. The initial assault caused widespread damage and killed two students. Security forces and Shabbiha followed on foot. They searched room by room, breaking in, and firing bursts of gunfire to intimidate the students. More than 50 students were seen being taken away.Security forces stormed the complex with five military vehicles while firing from mounted machine guns. The initial assault caused widespread damage and killed two students. Security forces and Shabbiha followed on foot. They searched room by room, breaking in, and firing bursts of gunfire to intimidate the students. More than 50 students were seen being taken away.
11.50am: Libya: The National Transitional Council yesterday passed a number of laws criminalising the "glorification" of the late Muammar Gaddafi, his regime and his sons, the Tripoli Post reports:11.50am: Libya: The National Transitional Council yesterday passed a number of laws criminalising the "glorification" of the late Muammar Gaddafi, his regime and his sons, the Tripoli Post reports:
This law and other two laws that aim to protect the nation and the new democratic Libya have been under debate for some time and have been demanded by a large part of the population.This law and other two laws that aim to protect the nation and the new democratic Libya have been under debate for some time and have been demanded by a large part of the population.
The remnants of pro-Gaddafi elements have exploited the atmosphere of forgiveness and the spirit of reconciliation expressed by the leaders of the uprising and has been working undercover to undermine the state for some time now.The remnants of pro-Gaddafi elements have exploited the atmosphere of forgiveness and the spirit of reconciliation expressed by the leaders of the uprising and has been working undercover to undermine the state for some time now.
The Tripoli Post quotes a statement read out to reporters by a judicial official:The Tripoli Post quotes a statement read out to reporters by a judicial official:
Praising or glorifying Muammar Gaddfi, his regime, his ideas or his sons ... is punishable by a prison sentence ...Praising or glorifying Muammar Gaddfi, his regime, his ideas or his sons ... is punishable by a prison sentence ...
If those news reports, rumours or propaganda cause any damage to the state the penalty will be life in prison ...If those news reports, rumours or propaganda cause any damage to the state the penalty will be life in prison ...
In conditions of war, there is a prison sentence for any person who spreads information and rumors which disrupt military preparations for the defense of the country, spread terror or weaken the citizens' morale.In conditions of war, there is a prison sentence for any person who spreads information and rumors which disrupt military preparations for the defense of the country, spread terror or weaken the citizens' morale.
(Libya is still considered to be in a state of war, apparently.)(Libya is still considered to be in a state of war, apparently.)
A second law stipulates prison sentences for anyone who "attacks the February 17 revolution, denigrates Islam, the authority of the state or its institutions," the Tripoli Post says, stating that these are laws "governing the transition" – which perhaps means that they are intended to be temporary.A second law stipulates prison sentences for anyone who "attacks the February 17 revolution, denigrates Islam, the authority of the state or its institutions," the Tripoli Post says, stating that these are laws "governing the transition" – which perhaps means that they are intended to be temporary.
A third new law promulgated yesterday confiscates all property and funds belonging to figures of the previous regime, including Gaddafi's relatives.A third new law promulgated yesterday confiscates all property and funds belonging to figures of the previous regime, including Gaddafi's relatives.
11.21am: Yemen: Democracy is America's second choice in Yemen, counter-radicalisation expert Francisco Martin-Rayo argues in an article for Foreign Policy that is highly critical of the Obama administration and its apparent obsession with al-Qaida:11.21am: Yemen: Democracy is America's second choice in Yemen, counter-radicalisation expert Francisco Martin-Rayo argues in an article for Foreign Policy that is highly critical of the Obama administration and its apparent obsession with al-Qaida:
Though Yemen's internal politics have changed dramatically since January 2011, US strategy there has remained single-mindedly focused on eradicating AQAP [al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula]. Democracy promotion, and the hopes of millions of Yemenis who supported the revolution, do not appear to be among the Obama administration's concerns in the country.Though Yemen's internal politics have changed dramatically since January 2011, US strategy there has remained single-mindedly focused on eradicating AQAP [al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula]. Democracy promotion, and the hopes of millions of Yemenis who supported the revolution, do not appear to be among the Obama administration's concerns in the country.
Nowhere was this more clear than in a recent press conference in Sana'a, where Jeffrey Feltman, the assistant secretary of state for Near Eastern affairs, reinforced US support for the existing transition plan, which doesn't call for elections until February 2014 and which has widely left President Saleh's patronage network intact. (His son, Ahmed Ali Abdullah Saleh, still controls the Republican Guard and Special Forces – a fact that inspires considerable disquiet among members of the pro-democracy opposition.)Nowhere was this more clear than in a recent press conference in Sana'a, where Jeffrey Feltman, the assistant secretary of state for Near Eastern affairs, reinforced US support for the existing transition plan, which doesn't call for elections until February 2014 and which has widely left President Saleh's patronage network intact. (His son, Ahmed Ali Abdullah Saleh, still controls the Republican Guard and Special Forces – a fact that inspires considerable disquiet among members of the pro-democracy opposition.)
Since the beginning of the demonstrations against President Saleh's regime, the US has signally failed to support the pro-democracy youth movement, a group that consists largely of the young and dissatisfied men that AQAP recruits so assiduously ...Since the beginning of the demonstrations against President Saleh's regime, the US has signally failed to support the pro-democracy youth movement, a group that consists largely of the young and dissatisfied men that AQAP recruits so assiduously ...
In April 2011, the youth movement openly petitioned the US for support, only to be ignored. The US instead supported the Gulf Cooperation Council's (GCC) negotiations with the old regime, squashing any hopes of an authentic democratic revolution and antagonising Washington's most likely local allies.In April 2011, the youth movement openly petitioned the US for support, only to be ignored. The US instead supported the Gulf Cooperation Council's (GCC) negotiations with the old regime, squashing any hopes of an authentic democratic revolution and antagonising Washington's most likely local allies.
11.05am: Tunisia: It appears that Nabil Karoui, the head of Nessma TV, has been convicted of a public order or "morality" offence rather than blasphemy in the Persepolis trial. This may explain why he has been fined rather than jailed.11.05am: Tunisia: It appears that Nabil Karoui, the head of Nessma TV, has been convicted of a public order or "morality" offence rather than blasphemy in the Persepolis trial. This may explain why he has been fined rather than jailed.
According to Le Nouvel Observateur (in French), the court judgment said he was punished for "broadcasting to the public a film that disturbed public order and was contrary to good morals".According to Le Nouvel Observateur (in French), the court judgment said he was punished for "broadcasting to the public a film that disturbed public order and was contrary to good morals".
Tunisia Live says Hedi Boughnim, who dubbed the award-winning film into Tunisian dialect, was also fined 1,200 dinars (about $750).Tunisia Live says Hedi Boughnim, who dubbed the award-winning film into Tunisian dialect, was also fined 1,200 dinars (about $750).
10.57am: Syria: The son of the leader of the opposition Syrian Social Nationalist party (SSNP) was assassinated on Wednesday by an armed terrorist group, the state news agency reports.10.57am: Syria: The son of the leader of the opposition Syrian Social Nationalist party (SSNP) was assassinated on Wednesday by an armed terrorist group, the state news agency reports.
Ismail Haidar, son of Ali Haidar, was killed alongside another SSNP member, Fadi Atawneh, by machine gun fire on the road between Homs and Masyaf, says Sana.Ismail Haidar, son of Ali Haidar, was killed alongside another SSNP member, Fadi Atawneh, by machine gun fire on the road between Homs and Masyaf, says Sana.
The SSNP, founded by Lebanese academic Antun Saadeh in the 1930s, is "an opposition party calling for democratic change in Syria, but adamantly rejected foreign intervention and the militarisation of the uprising," says al-Akhbar.

It quotes an anonymous high-ranking member of the SSNP based in the US as saying:		The SSNP, founded by Lebanese academic Antun Saadeh in the 1930s, is "an opposition party calling for democratic change in Syria, but adamantly rejected foreign intervention and the militarisation of the uprising," says al-Akhbar.

It quotes an anonymous high-ranking member of the SSNP based in the US as saying:
The SSNP has taken a position that is neither to the complete liking of the regime nor to the complete liking of many elements in the opposition, but which it feels represents the interest of Syria, which should be above all other interests.The SSNP has taken a position that is neither to the complete liking of the regime nor to the complete liking of many elements in the opposition, but which it feels represents the interest of Syria, which should be above all other interests.
Unfortunately, certain elements on the ground believe that unless you are 100% with them, then you are 100% against them, and as a result two young members of the SSNP have paid with their lives for the party's position.Unfortunately, certain elements on the ground believe that unless you are 100% with them, then you are 100% against them, and as a result two young members of the SSNP have paid with their lives for the party's position.
Mohammad Zahweh, from the SSNP, told Al-Akhbar.Mohammad Zahweh, from the SSNP, told Al-Akhbar.
It happened yesterday evening. There were gunmen waiting [on the street] and they began firing on the car ... We have received threats, particularly against the president [of] the party, but we couldn't specify the source of those threats. I can't really say for sure [who was responsible]. The investigation is underway [and] we don't want to guess who was behind it, it could've been a criminal act.It happened yesterday evening. There were gunmen waiting [on the street] and they began firing on the car ... We have received threats, particularly against the president [of] the party, but we couldn't specify the source of those threats. I can't really say for sure [who was responsible]. The investigation is underway [and] we don't want to guess who was behind it, it could've been a criminal act.
Sana quotes SSNP leader Ali Haidar as saying:Sana quotes SSNP leader Ali Haidar as saying:
I don't need condolences over the deaths of my son and his comrade, because their blood is no more precious than the blood of any Syrian that was martyred before or will be martyred in the coming days ... Those who carry guns will not terrorise us and will not silence us nor stop is from working day and night to establish peace and security in Syria ...Ismael and his comrade are the victims of terrorism that is afflicting Syria… they, like the rest of the martyrs, fell so that Syria may live, for Syria's interest is above all interests.I don't need condolences over the deaths of my son and his comrade, because their blood is no more precious than the blood of any Syrian that was martyred before or will be martyred in the coming days ... Those who carry guns will not terrorise us and will not silence us nor stop is from working day and night to establish peace and security in Syria ...Ismael and his comrade are the victims of terrorism that is afflicting Syria… they, like the rest of the martyrs, fell so that Syria may live, for Syria's interest is above all interests.
10.45am: Tunisia: Reports are coming in that the head of Nessma TV has been fined 2,400 dinars (about $1,500) for broadcasting the film, Persepolis, which religious elements complained was blasphemous. More details shortly.10.45am: Tunisia: Reports are coming in that the head of Nessma TV has been fined 2,400 dinars (about $1,500) for broadcasting the film, Persepolis, which religious elements complained was blasphemous. More details shortly.
10.36am: Bahrain: The kingdom's human rights record will come under scrutiny at the UN Human Rights Council later this month, as part of the "periodic review" system.10.36am: Bahrain: The kingdom's human rights record will come under scrutiny at the UN Human Rights Council later this month, as part of the "periodic review" system.
As part of that process, the kingdom has submitted a report detaiing its achievements since the last review in 2008. As usual with these reports, it gives a fairly glowing picture. It also refers to the king as "beloved" three times (pages 8, 20 and 25) and "dearly beloved" once (page 7).

A second report, by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, is less congratulatory. It complains about "a deterioration in the human rights situation" and notes "with concern" allegations of torture, including the torture of children.		As part of that process, the kingdom has submitted a report detaiing its achievements since the last review in 2008. As usual with these reports, it gives a fairly glowing picture. It also refers to the king as "beloved" three times (pages 8, 20 and 25) and "dearly beloved" once (page 7).

A second report, by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, is less congratulatory. It complains about "a deterioration in the human rights situation" and notes "with concern" allegations of torture, including the torture of children.
10.19am: Syria: In another video from Aleppo University, where activists say at least four students were killed (see 9.40am), the sound of intense gunfire can be heard. It is difficult to make out the different figures running outside as the video is filmed from a room high off the ground. A voiceover at the end says "Assad mukhabarat [secret police]."10.19am: Syria: In another video from Aleppo University, where activists say at least four students were killed (see 9.40am), the sound of intense gunfire can be heard. It is difficult to make out the different figures running outside as the video is filmed from a room high off the ground. A voiceover at the end says "Assad mukhabarat [secret police]."
Another video purports to show students outside the dormitories amid their belongings, strewn on the ground.Another video purports to show students outside the dormitories amid their belongings, strewn on the ground.
10.03am: Tunisia: Two police officers who killed a protester last year have been jailed for 20 years each – the first punishment meted out to security officials over their crackdown on the revolution that ousted President Ben Ali, Reuters reports.10.03am: Tunisia: Two police officers who killed a protester last year have been jailed for 20 years each – the first punishment meted out to security officials over their crackdown on the revolution that ousted President Ben Ali, Reuters reports.
The officers were also fined 80,000 dinars ($60,000) each for their role in the death of Salim al-Hadhary, a source said. The money will go to the victim's family.The officers were also fined 80,000 dinars ($60,000) each for their role in the death of Salim al-Hadhary, a source said. The money will go to the victim's family.
9.40am: Syria: Syrian security forces stormed student dorms at Aleppo University in the north-west of the country following anti-government protests there, killing at least four students and wounding several others with teargas and live ammunition, activists and opposition groups said today. From AP .9.40am: Syria: Syrian security forces stormed student dorms at Aleppo University in the north-west of the country following anti-government protests there, killing at least four students and wounding several others with teargas and live ammunition, activists and opposition groups said today. From AP .
Around 1,500 students had been protesting in student quarters adjacent to Aleppo University's main campus late Wednesday when security forces and pro-regime gunmen swept into their residences, firing tear gas at first, then live ammunition to disperse them.Around 1,500 students had been protesting in student quarters adjacent to Aleppo University's main campus late Wednesday when security forces and pro-regime gunmen swept into their residences, firing tear gas at first, then live ammunition to disperse them.
Student activist Thaer al-Ahmed said panic and chaos ensued as students tried to flee. "Some students ran to their rooms to take cover but they were followed to their rooms, beaten up and arrested," he said.
He said raids and intermittent gunfire continued until early Thursday morning. Dozens of people were wounded, some critically, and around 50 students were arrested, he said.		Student activist Thaer al-Ahmed said panic and chaos ensued as students tried to flee. "Some students ran to their rooms to take cover but they were followed to their rooms, beaten up and arrested," he said.
He said raids and intermittent gunfire continued until early Thursday morning. Dozens of people were wounded, some critically, and around 50 students were arrested, he said.
The Local Coordination Committees activist group confirmed the raid and said five students were killed and some 200 arrested while the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said four students were killed. "Regime forces demanded through loudspeakers that the dorms be evacuated, then began detaining the students," the LCC said in a statement.The Local Coordination Committees activist group confirmed the raid and said five students were killed and some 200 arrested while the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said four students were killed. "Regime forces demanded through loudspeakers that the dorms be evacuated, then began detaining the students," the LCC said in a statement.
The LCC says demonstrations are taking place now, both elsewhere on the campus and outside the campus, in solidarity with the students who were attacked.The LCC says demonstrations are taking place now, both elsewhere on the campus and outside the campus, in solidarity with the students who were attacked.
A video posted online purports to show a student who was shot.A video posted online purports to show a student who was shot.
This video shows purports to show a fire still blazing at the university dorms after the attacks. http://youtu.be/uulRMOFytWcThis video shows purports to show a fire still blazing at the university dorms after the attacks. http://youtu.be/uulRMOFytWc
A picture of one of those said to have been killed, named as Majed Abdulhaid, has been posted on Twitter. (warning:graphic)A picture of one of those said to have been killed, named as Majed Abdulhaid, has been posted on Twitter. (warning:graphic)
9.33am: Syria: Will it end in stalemate or checkmate? The New York Times is intrigued to discover that the president of the World Chess Federation was in Damascus at the weekend and had three hours of talks with President Assad .9.33am: Syria: Will it end in stalemate or checkmate? The New York Times is intrigued to discover that the president of the World Chess Federation was in Damascus at the weekend and had three hours of talks with President Assad .
It says Kirsan Ilyumzhinov – described as "an eccentric Russian millionaire" – was officially visiting Syria to promote the teaching of chess in schools, though the paper notes that he also went to Libya last year in an effort to negotiate a settlement between the Libyan rebels and Colonel Gaddafi:It says Kirsan Ilyumzhinov – described as "an eccentric Russian millionaire" – was officially visiting Syria to promote the teaching of chess in schools, though the paper notes that he also went to Libya last year in an effort to negotiate a settlement between the Libyan rebels and Colonel Gaddafi:
Although he holds no formal diplomatic position with the Russian government, his repeated visits to Arab countries in turmoil have reinforced the impression that he is serving as an informal envoy, using the chess organization's business as a fittingly Russian ruse.Although he holds no formal diplomatic position with the Russian government, his repeated visits to Arab countries in turmoil have reinforced the impression that he is serving as an informal envoy, using the chess organization's business as a fittingly Russian ruse.
9.23am: Bahrain: To mark World Press Freedom Day, King Hamad has announced "a new era" for Bahrain's media, the pro-government Gulf Daily News reports. The king is quoted as saying:9.23am: Bahrain: To mark World Press Freedom Day, King Hamad has announced "a new era" for Bahrain's media, the pro-government Gulf Daily News reports. The king is quoted as saying:
There should be no tampering with the right of Bahraini citizens in expressing their opinions, nor any ceilings put on their freedoms or creativity apart from professional consciousness, national and ethical responsibilities and observance of the people's unity and national interest in compliance with the constitution and the law.There should be no tampering with the right of Bahraini citizens in expressing their opinions, nor any ceilings put on their freedoms or creativity apart from professional consciousness, national and ethical responsibilities and observance of the people's unity and national interest in compliance with the constitution and the law.
Media freedoms are ushering in a more advanced phase of diversity, independence and respect of opinion and counter-opinion.Media freedoms are ushering in a more advanced phase of diversity, independence and respect of opinion and counter-opinion.
The king added that legislation to "boost freedom of opinion and expression in compliance with highest international standards" was on in preparation.The king added that legislation to "boost freedom of opinion and expression in compliance with highest international standards" was on in preparation.
9.00am: Good morning. Welcome to Middle East Live. During the day we shall be monitoring unrest in Syria, Egypt, Bahrain and other parts of the region, and keeping an eye on the growing problems faced by the Un monitoring operation in Syria.9.00am: Good morning. Welcome to Middle East Live. During the day we shall be monitoring unrest in Syria, Egypt, Bahrain and other parts of the region, and keeping an eye on the growing problems faced by the Un monitoring operation in Syria.
SyriaSyria
• The UN monitoring mission is in trouble – and not just on the ground in Syria, where the monitors are constantly tailed by the authorities. "The UN is making repeated calls to member states seeking personnel as it tries to deploy the full force by the end of May," Bloomberg reports. • The UN monitoring mission is in trouble – and not just on the ground in Syria, where the monitors are constantly tailed by the authorities. "The UN is making repeated calls to member states seeking personnel as it tries to deploy the full force by the end of May," Bloomberg reports.
It adds that the deployment is hindered by the acknowledgment of US and other security council diplomats that the mission is likely to fail and that its purpose is to convince Russia and China that stronger measures, which they previously blocked, are needed to force President Bashar al-Assad to stop killing his opponents and civilians.It adds that the deployment is hindered by the acknowledgment of US and other security council diplomats that the mission is likely to fail and that its purpose is to convince Russia and China that stronger measures, which they previously blocked, are needed to force President Bashar al-Assad to stop killing his opponents and civilians.
• In a statement last night, the Avaaz organisation said the Annan plan is "in the gutter".• In a statement last night, the Avaaz organisation said the Annan plan is "in the gutter".
Referring to developments in Homs, it said "While the pace of bombardment slowed significantly ever since the UN observers arrived in the city, the Annan plan is not being upheld. Armed opposition groups remain inside the city while the regime's forces retain a formidable presence."Referring to developments in Homs, it said "While the pace of bombardment slowed significantly ever since the UN observers arrived in the city, the Annan plan is not being upheld. Armed opposition groups remain inside the city while the regime's forces retain a formidable presence."
• The Syrian government imported $167m-worth of air defence systems and missiles and a further $1m of small arms and ammunition in the months before it began the crackdown on opposition activists, a report by the charity Oxfam says.• The Syrian government imported $167m-worth of air defence systems and missiles and a further $1m of small arms and ammunition in the months before it began the crackdown on opposition activists, a report by the charity Oxfam says.
EgyptEgypt
• The ruling military council (Scaf) says it was not reponsible for the deaths of 11 or more protesters during recent clashes in Cairo and will hold a press conference later today, the Egypt Independent reports. • The ruling military council (Scaf) says it was not reponsible for the deaths of 11 or more protesters during recent clashes in Cairo and will hold a press conference later today, the Egypt Independent reports.
A statement on Scaf's Facebook page says: "The armed forces have over the last week endured what it cannot tolerate of insults and attacks from demonstrators in front of the defence ministry."A statement on Scaf's Facebook page says: "The armed forces have over the last week endured what it cannot tolerate of insults and attacks from demonstrators in front of the defence ministry."
LibyaLibya
• Shokri Ghanem, Libya's former oil chief who was found drowned in the river Danube on Sunday, was wanted for questioning in Libya,
Reuters reports. The Libyan authorities had sent a warrant to Interpol about a month ago but were still awaiting a "decisive reply".		• Shokri Ghanem, Libya's former oil chief who was found drowned in the river Danube on Sunday, was wanted for questioning in Libya,
Reuters reports. The Libyan authorities had sent a warrant to Interpol about a month ago but were still awaiting a "decisive reply".
• The National Transitional Council has lifted controversial restrictions on the types of political parties that can take part in next month's election, the BBC reports. • The National Transitional Council has lifted controversial restrictions on the types of political parties that can take part in next month's election, the BBC reports.
In April the NTC had announced a ban on parties organised along religious, regional, tribal or ethnic lines, saying that this was a measure to preserve "national unity". But yesterday it issued a new version of the law which made no mention of the restrictions.In April the NTC had announced a ban on parties organised along religious, regional, tribal or ethnic lines, saying that this was a measure to preserve "national unity". But yesterday it issued a new version of the law which made no mention of the restrictions.