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Syria crisis: colonel 'defects' in jet Jordan - live updates Syria crisis: colonel 'defects' in jet Jordan - live updates
(39 minutes later)
2.26pm: Tunisia/Libya: The Tunisian air force has destroyed two vehicles filled with armed men crossing the border from Libya, AP reports citing a security official in southern Tunisia.
The information was also reported by the state news agency and in local media and said a Tunisian fighter jet was on a routine patrol in the area where the Algerian, Libyan and Tunisian borders converge when it was shot at by the people in three vehicles.
The plane responded by destroying two of the vehicles, the official said Thursday on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the press. The third vehicle escaped.
The official said it was the third such incident in this sensitive desert region in the last few months. The convoy of vehicles appeared to be heading east towards Algeria.
2.07pm: Syria: Gunfire in Homs today thwarted a mission to rescue civilians trapped in the city, the International Committee of the Red Cross has confirmed.
But the ICRC plans to make another attempt later today after securing an agreement yesterday from both government forces and rebels for a two-hour pause in the fighting.
A spokesman said: "An ICRC and Syrian Arab Red Crescent team tried to enter the old city of Homs today. But gunfire in the vicinity forced them to turn back. The team is now in another area of Homs city and will try again to enter the affected area later today. The team will re-establish contact with the parties to the fighting."
1.58pm: Syria: Russia has confirmed for the first time that the MV Alaed was carrying helicopters belonging to the Syrian government, AFP reports. The ship was turned back towards Russia earlier this week after insurers withdrew their cover.1.58pm: Syria: Russia has confirmed for the first time that the MV Alaed was carrying helicopters belonging to the Syrian government, AFP reports. The ship was turned back towards Russia earlier this week after insurers withdrew their cover.
The Russians are reportedly planning a second attempt to deliver the helicopters to Syria – on a vessel flying the Russian flag rather than that of the Caribbean island of Curacao.The Russians are reportedly planning a second attempt to deliver the helicopters to Syria – on a vessel flying the Russian flag rather than that of the Caribbean island of Curacao.
1.52pm: Syria/Jordan: The reported defection of a Syrian air force pilot with his aircraft is likely to complicate Syrian-Jordanian relations.1.52pm: Syria/Jordan: The reported defection of a Syrian air force pilot with his aircraft is likely to complicate Syrian-Jordanian relations.
The Associated Press notes that despite receiving some 125,000 Syrian refugees, including hundreds of army and police defectors (whose return has been sought by Syria), Jordan has tried to avoid being dragged into the conflict.The Associated Press notes that despite receiving some 125,000 Syrian refugees, including hundreds of army and police defectors (whose return has been sought by Syria), Jordan has tried to avoid being dragged into the conflict.
Jordan's commercial ties with Syria are especially important – bilateral trade was estimated at $470m last year. Also, AP says, 60% of Jordanian exports of mainly fruit and vegetables are routed through Syria for onward shipping to Turkey overland or to Europe via Syria's Mediterranean coast. Jordan itself has no direct access to the Mediterranean.Jordan's commercial ties with Syria are especially important – bilateral trade was estimated at $470m last year. Also, AP says, 60% of Jordanian exports of mainly fruit and vegetables are routed through Syria for onward shipping to Turkey overland or to Europe via Syria's Mediterranean coast. Jordan itself has no direct access to the Mediterranean.
1.23pm: Syria: Al-Jazeera reporter says there was a co-pilot on board the MiG-21 who is also asking for asylum in Jordan.1.23pm: Syria: Al-Jazeera reporter says there was a co-pilot on board the MiG-21 who is also asking for asylum in Jordan.
12.59pm: Here's a round up of the main developments so far today:12.59pm: Here's a round up of the main developments so far today:
SyriaSyria
• A Syrian fighter pilot has landed in Jordan and asked for asylum. The pilot, a colonel, named by opposition activists as Hassan Merhi al-Hamadi, landed his MiG-21 jet at Jordan's King Hussein military base this morning after leaving Syrian air space during a training exercise. He is believed to be the first Syrian air force pilot to defect with an aircraft during the 16-month uprising.• A Syrian fighter pilot has landed in Jordan and asked for asylum. The pilot, a colonel, named by opposition activists as Hassan Merhi al-Hamadi, landed his MiG-21 jet at Jordan's King Hussein military base this morning after leaving Syrian air space during a training exercise. He is believed to be the first Syrian air force pilot to defect with an aircraft during the 16-month uprising.
• Continued shelling in the Syrian city of Homs has thwarted a Red Cross bid to evacuate civilians from the violence. Government forces and rebel fighters agreed on Wednesday to a two-hour ceasefire to allow aid workers into the worst affected areas.• Continued shelling in the Syrian city of Homs has thwarted a Red Cross bid to evacuate civilians from the violence. Government forces and rebel fighters agreed on Wednesday to a two-hour ceasefire to allow aid workers into the worst affected areas.
• The Arab League has called on Russia to stop supplying arms to Syria, the Telegraph reports. The League's deputy secretary general Ahmed Ben Hilli told Interfax news agency, "Any assistance to violence must be ceased because when you supply military equipment, you help kill people. This must stop."• The Arab League has called on Russia to stop supplying arms to Syria, the Telegraph reports. The League's deputy secretary general Ahmed Ben Hilli told Interfax news agency, "Any assistance to violence must be ceased because when you supply military equipment, you help kill people. This must stop."
• Britain and America are willing to offer President Bashar al-Assad, safe passage – and even clemency – as part of a diplomatic push to convene a UN-sponsored conference in Geneva on political transition in Syria. In public, Russian president Vladimir Putin has stated that no country has the right to tell Syria who its president should be. But in private talks at the G20 in Mexico, David Cameron and Barack Obama received enough encouragement from Putin to pursue the idea of a negotiated transition in Syria.• Britain and America are willing to offer President Bashar al-Assad, safe passage – and even clemency – as part of a diplomatic push to convene a UN-sponsored conference in Geneva on political transition in Syria. In public, Russian president Vladimir Putin has stated that no country has the right to tell Syria who its president should be. But in private talks at the G20 in Mexico, David Cameron and Barack Obama received enough encouragement from Putin to pursue the idea of a negotiated transition in Syria.
EgyptEgypt
• There won't be an Algerian-style civil war in Egypt over the military councils power grab and the dissolution of parliament, according to the speaker of the parliament Saad al-Katatni. "What happened in Algeria cannot be repeated in Egypt," he told Reuters.• There won't be an Algerian-style civil war in Egypt over the military councils power grab and the dissolution of parliament, according to the speaker of the parliament Saad al-Katatni. "What happened in Algeria cannot be repeated in Egypt," he told Reuters.
• A delay in the election results is stoking fears over what the military council is planning next. It is reported to be determined not to allow the Muslim Brotherhood to "seize power".• A delay in the election results is stoking fears over what the military council is planning next. It is reported to be determined not to allow the Muslim Brotherhood to "seize power".
• The Muslim Brotherhood and the Salafis Nour Party have warned of another revolution against the military council's decision to grant itself sweeping new powers, according to the Egypt Independent. They have called on Egyptians to go to Tahrir Square on Friday and take part in the "Return of Legitimacy" demonstration.• The Muslim Brotherhood and the Salafis Nour Party have warned of another revolution against the military council's decision to grant itself sweeping new powers, according to the Egypt Independent. They have called on Egyptians to go to Tahrir Square on Friday and take part in the "Return of Legitimacy" demonstration.
12.40pm: Syria: Jordan's information minister now says a Syrian fighter jet defected to Jordan, according to an update from AP.12.40pm: Syria: Jordan's information minister now says a Syrian fighter jet defected to Jordan, according to an update from AP.
The minister Sameeh Maaytah confirmed the defection, after initially saying the the plane made an emergency landing.The minister Sameeh Maaytah confirmed the defection, after initially saying the the plane made an emergency landing.
A spokesman for the rebel Free Syrian Army, Ahmad Kassem, said the plane had defected to Jordan and that its pilot was seeking political asylum. He said the group had encouraged the pilot to defect.A spokesman for the rebel Free Syrian Army, Ahmad Kassem, said the plane had defected to Jordan and that its pilot was seeking political asylum. He said the group had encouraged the pilot to defect.
Reuters says this the first defection involving an aircraft since the start of the uprising against President Bashar al-Assad.Reuters says this the first defection involving an aircraft since the start of the uprising against President Bashar al-Assad.
A Jordanian security source said the pilot flew from al-Dumair military airport northeast of Damascus and landed at King Hussein Airbase at 11 am. (9am BST).A Jordanian security source said the pilot flew from al-Dumair military airport northeast of Damascus and landed at King Hussein Airbase at 11 am. (9am BST).
A Jordanian official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the defection as "difficult to handle", referring to Amman's nervousness over possible a Syrian military reaction after months of border tension between the two countries, ignited by thousands of Syrians fleeing a crackdown on the revolt to Jordan.A Jordanian official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the defection as "difficult to handle", referring to Amman's nervousness over possible a Syrian military reaction after months of border tension between the two countries, ignited by thousands of Syrians fleeing a crackdown on the revolt to Jordan.
12.30pm: Syria: The King Hussein air base in Mafraq, where the Syrian colonel landed, is only a few miles from Jordan's border with Syria.12.30pm: Syria: The King Hussein air base in Mafraq, where the Syrian colonel landed, is only a few miles from Jordan's border with Syria.
As this Google Map shows Mafraq is also close to the Syrian-opposition stronghold of Deraa.As this Google Map shows Mafraq is also close to the Syrian-opposition stronghold of Deraa.
12.14pm: Syria: Jordanian minister of state for information Samih al-Maaytah, has confirmed that the pilot has asked for asylum.12.14pm: Syria: Jordanian minister of state for information Samih al-Maaytah, has confirmed that the pilot has asked for asylum.
Reuters quoted him saying: "He requested political asylum in Jordan. He is being debriefed at the moment."Reuters quoted him saying: "He requested political asylum in Jordan. He is being debriefed at the moment."
Military analysts reckon that Syria has 140 MiG 21 in service.Military analysts reckon that Syria has 140 MiG 21 in service.
12.06pm: Syria: The Syrian fighter jet made an "emergency landing" at a northern Jordanian airbase, according to AP, citing a Jordanian official.12.06pm: Syria: The Syrian fighter jet made an "emergency landing" at a northern Jordanian airbase, according to AP, citing a Jordanian official.
The official says the Russian-made MiG-21 landed Thursday at the King Hussein Air Base in Mafraq, a north Jordanian town near the Syrian border.The official says the Russian-made MiG-21 landed Thursday at the King Hussein Air Base in Mafraq, a north Jordanian town near the Syrian border.
He declined to provide other details. Two other officials gave similar accounts.
All three spoke on condition of anonymity, citing the sensitivity of the matter.		He declined to provide other details. Two other officials gave similar accounts.
All three spoke on condition of anonymity, citing the sensitivity of the matter.
11.54am: Syria: It is highly unusual for the state news agency to give credence to reports about military defections.11.54am: Syria: It is highly unusual for the state news agency to give credence to reports about military defections.
But this brief statement is giving the story legs:But this brief statement is giving the story legs:
An official source announced on Thursday that contact was lost with an MiG-21 aircraft that was on a training flight.An official source announced on Thursday that contact was lost with an MiG-21 aircraft that was on a training flight.
The source added in a statement that the aircraft, which was piloted by Col. Hassan Mirei al-Hamadeh, was near the Syrian southern borders before contact with it was lost at around 10: 34 am.The source added in a statement that the aircraft, which was piloted by Col. Hassan Mirei al-Hamadeh, was near the Syrian southern borders before contact with it was lost at around 10: 34 am.
11.48am: Syria: The pilot has asked for political asylum, according to Reuters citing a Jordanian minister11.48am: Syria: The pilot has asked for political asylum, according to Reuters citing a Jordanian minister
11.42am: Syria: A few unconfirmed details about the breaking defection story.11.42am: Syria: A few unconfirmed details about the breaking defection story.
Journalist Zaid Benjamin tweets:Journalist Zaid Benjamin tweets:
#BREAKING: A source in the Free Syrian Army says that a Syrian pilot defected and more to come #Syria #Assad #Damascus#BREAKING: A source in the Free Syrian Army says that a Syrian pilot defected and more to come #Syria #Assad #Damascus
— Zaid Benjamin (@zaidbenjamin) June 21, 2012— Zaid Benjamin (@zaidbenjamin) June 21, 2012
#BREAKING: A source in the Free Syrian Army says the final destination of the defected pilot could be #France - Radio Sawa #Syria #Assad#BREAKING: A source in the Free Syrian Army says the final destination of the defected pilot could be #France - Radio Sawa #Syria #Assad
— Zaid Benjamin (@zaidbenjamin) June 21, 2012— Zaid Benjamin (@zaidbenjamin) June 21, 2012
Opposition site Urgarit News says:
Opposition site Urgarit News says:
A Syrian MiG-21 piloted by Colonel Hasan Mar'e Hammade is reported to have defected and landed in a military base in Jordan, after the Syrian regime reported losing contact with the aircraft at 10.34am 'near the southern region'.A Syrian MiG-21 piloted by Colonel Hasan Mar'e Hammade is reported to have defected and landed in a military base in Jordan, after the Syrian regime reported losing contact with the aircraft at 10.34am 'near the southern region'.
11.18am: Syria: A Syrian MiG-21 aircraft has landed at Mafraq military airfield in Jordan, Reuters reports citing a Jordanian security source. It appears that an air force colonel has defected:11.18am: Syria: A Syrian MiG-21 aircraft has landed at Mafraq military airfield in Jordan, Reuters reports citing a Jordanian security source. It appears that an air force colonel has defected:
RT @Psypherize: Air Force Colonel Mohammed Maree who fled with his MiG-21 from #Syria to #Jordanhas defected from #Assad.RT @Psypherize: Air Force Colonel Mohammed Maree who fled with his MiG-21 from #Syria to #Jordanhas defected from #Assad.
— FREEDOM (@DamascusSYR) June 21, 2012— FREEDOM (@DamascusSYR) June 21, 2012
Earlier, Syria's state-run TV said the authorities had lost contact with a military plane that was on a training mission, the Associated Press reports.Earlier, Syria's state-run TV said the authorities had lost contact with a military plane that was on a training mission, the Associated Press reports.
10.56am: Egypt: There won't be an Algerian-style civil war in Egypt over the military councils power grab and the dissolution of parliament, the speaker of the parliament Saad al-Katatni told Reuters.10.56am: Egypt: There won't be an Algerian-style civil war in Egypt over the military councils power grab and the dissolution of parliament, the speaker of the parliament Saad al-Katatni told Reuters.
"What happened in Algeria cannot be repeated in Egypt," said Katatni, rejecting comparisons with the conflict that erupted 20 years ago when a military-backed government blocked another Islamist group's ascent to power through the ballot box. Some 150,000 or more Algerians were killed during the 1990s."What happened in Algeria cannot be repeated in Egypt," said Katatni, rejecting comparisons with the conflict that erupted 20 years ago when a military-backed government blocked another Islamist group's ascent to power through the ballot box. Some 150,000 or more Algerians were killed during the 1990s.
"The Egyptian people are different and not armed," Katatni, a 61-year-old microbiologist, said in his first interview since the Islamist-dominated legislature was dissolved after a court ruled procedures in its election were unconstitutional."The Egyptian people are different and not armed," Katatni, a 61-year-old microbiologist, said in his first interview since the Islamist-dominated legislature was dissolved after a court ruled procedures in its election were unconstitutional.
"We are fighting a legal struggle via the establishment and a popular struggle in the streets," he said. "This is the ceiling. I see the continuation of the struggle in this way.""We are fighting a legal struggle via the establishment and a popular struggle in the streets," he said. "This is the ceiling. I see the continuation of the struggle in this way."
He demanded the army recognize democracy but also offered conciliatory words: "Everyone must submit to popular will," said Katatni, who was elected by fellow lawmakers in January to preside over Egypt's first freely elected parliament in decades.He demanded the army recognize democracy but also offered conciliatory words: "Everyone must submit to popular will," said Katatni, who was elected by fellow lawmakers in January to preside over Egypt's first freely elected parliament in decades.
The army deserved thanks for removing Mubarak and preventing wider bloodshed, he said in an interview at a party office – like other members, he is barred from the parliament building.The army deserved thanks for removing Mubarak and preventing wider bloodshed, he said in an interview at a party office – like other members, he is barred from the parliament building.
Analysts have drawn parallels with the events of last week and what happened in Algeria in the early 1990s, but have also pointed out crucial differences.Analysts have drawn parallels with the events of last week and what happened in Algeria in the early 1990s, but have also pointed out crucial differences.
Michael Collins Dunn at the Middle East Institute said:Michael Collins Dunn at the Middle East Institute said:
Algeria is a very different country. A decade of struggle for independence from France produced a country in which war for political ends was part of the legacy of the nation. Protracted civil war has been rare in Egyptian history and nonexistent in the past several centuries. The Army has not fought a war since 1973 (the internal "war" against radical Islamists in the 1990s was mostly fought by State Security).Algeria is a very different country. A decade of struggle for independence from France produced a country in which war for political ends was part of the legacy of the nation. Protracted civil war has been rare in Egyptian history and nonexistent in the past several centuries. The Army has not fought a war since 1973 (the internal "war" against radical Islamists in the 1990s was mostly fought by State Security).
Writing for the Arabist blog Steve Negus said:Writing for the Arabist blog Steve Negus said:
I don't think an Algeria post-1991 situation would be likely under a Shafiq presidency, as some have suggested, but for the first time it would be a possibility.I don't think an Algeria post-1991 situation would be likely under a Shafiq presidency, as some have suggested, but for the first time it would be a possibility.
11.10am: Egypt: The ruling military council is determined not to let the Muslim Brotherhood "seize power", according to an unnamed military source interviewed by Ahram Online. The source continues:11.10am: Egypt: The ruling military council is determined not to let the Muslim Brotherhood "seize power", according to an unnamed military source interviewed by Ahram Online. The source continues:
[The military council] will not relinquish the reins of power until a new constitution is issued and the arena is set for a balanced political process.[The military council] will not relinquish the reins of power until a new constitution is issued and the arena is set for a balanced political process.
There are political forces that want to discredit the political process by making people believe that matters are being decided by political deals. To avoid any sudden shifts that could lead to confrontation and drive the situation to the brink, the military council remains the only force capable of regulating the political process so as to preserve the stability of the state.There are political forces that want to discredit the political process by making people believe that matters are being decided by political deals. To avoid any sudden shifts that could lead to confrontation and drive the situation to the brink, the military council remains the only force capable of regulating the political process so as to preserve the stability of the state.
The United States and the European Union have both been sending messages reflecting their preference for [the Muslim Brotherhood's] Mohamed Morsi as Egypt's president. In the belief that they enjoy this support, the group has adopted a policy of pressuring Egypt's interim rulers regarding upcoming political arrangements.The United States and the European Union have both been sending messages reflecting their preference for [the Muslim Brotherhood's] Mohamed Morsi as Egypt's president. In the belief that they enjoy this support, the group has adopted a policy of pressuring Egypt's interim rulers regarding upcoming political arrangements.
Moreover, the Muslim Brotherhood's guidance bureau has been exchanging messages with the US – to which Israel is privy – containing reassurances about the group's stance on Hamas, Gaza and the Camp David accords. It remains unclear, however, whether the US would prefer to see Morsi or Shafiq in Egypt's highest office.Moreover, the Muslim Brotherhood's guidance bureau has been exchanging messages with the US – to which Israel is privy – containing reassurances about the group's stance on Hamas, Gaza and the Camp David accords. It remains unclear, however, whether the US would prefer to see Morsi or Shafiq in Egypt's highest office.
11.05am: Libya: Last week's clashes in the Nafusa mountains left 105 people dead and 500 injured, according to government spokesman Nasser el-Manee. This is much higher than a previous figure given by the health ministry which said only 32 had died, the Libya Herald says.11.05am: Libya: Last week's clashes in the Nafusa mountains left 105 people dead and 500 injured, according to government spokesman Nasser el-Manee. This is much higher than a previous figure given by the health ministry which said only 32 had died, the Libya Herald says.
There have been no new reports of fighting since Monday, two days after the government sent forces to the region and declared it a military zone. "The armed forces are now on the ground and calm has returned," el-Manee said.There have been no new reports of fighting since Monday, two days after the government sent forces to the region and declared it a military zone. "The armed forces are now on the ground and calm has returned," el-Manee said.
He added that "both heavy and light weapons" had been used during the fighting. Last Thursday, Libya Herald reporters clearly overheard sustained heavy gunfire from nearby Jadu.He added that "both heavy and light weapons" had been used during the fighting. Last Thursday, Libya Herald reporters clearly overheard sustained heavy gunfire from nearby Jadu.
The fighting initially began on 11 June after a brigadesman from Zintan was allegedly shot dead at a checkpoint controlled by the Mashasha tribe. Resentment between the two groups was exacerbated by last year's revolution, in which the Zintanis and the Mashasha fought on opposing sides, with the Mashasha supporting Gaddafi.The fighting initially began on 11 June after a brigadesman from Zintan was allegedly shot dead at a checkpoint controlled by the Mashasha tribe. Resentment between the two groups was exacerbated by last year's revolution, in which the Zintanis and the Mashasha fought on opposing sides, with the Mashasha supporting Gaddafi.
10.45am: Egypt: The postponement of the presidential election result is grist to the rumour mill in Egypt, says Abdel-Rahman Hussein in Cairo.10.45am: Egypt: The postponement of the presidential election result is grist to the rumour mill in Egypt, says Abdel-Rahman Hussein in Cairo.
The delay is raising suspicions because after the first round of the vote appeals were quickly rejected, he says.The delay is raising suspicions because after the first round of the vote appeals were quickly rejected, he says.
"For them to be saying 'we are going to be reviewing these complaints in great detail' is just adding to the uncertainty. There could be a very logical explanation, but it is adding to the uncertainty that is engulfing the country at the moment," Abdu said."For them to be saying 'we are going to be reviewing these complaints in great detail' is just adding to the uncertainty. There could be a very logical explanation, but it is adding to the uncertainty that is engulfing the country at the moment," Abdu said.
The military council is thought to have offered the Muslim Brotherhood the presidency if it accepts the dissolution of parliament. Speculation about such a deal is "definitely resonating" in Cairo, Abdu said.The military council is thought to have offered the Muslim Brotherhood the presidency if it accepts the dissolution of parliament. Speculation about such a deal is "definitely resonating" in Cairo, Abdu said.
What Cairo has been subjected to in the past two days is an incredible amount of rumours. Starting off with Mubarak is 'clinically dead' and then 'no he's not he's alive and well'. But there has also been a number of rumours about the Muslim Brotherhood taking up arms; the army deploying; and Muslim Brotherhood commanders being arrested for election fraud. The only thing that has been true is the deployment of army troops, around the exit and entry ways around the capital and other major cities. But that is something they have done before, so it might have significance, it might notWhat Cairo has been subjected to in the past two days is an incredible amount of rumours. Starting off with Mubarak is 'clinically dead' and then 'no he's not he's alive and well'. But there has also been a number of rumours about the Muslim Brotherhood taking up arms; the army deploying; and Muslim Brotherhood commanders being arrested for election fraud. The only thing that has been true is the deployment of army troops, around the exit and entry ways around the capital and other major cities. But that is something they have done before, so it might have significance, it might not
..
Tomorrow's planned protest in Tahrir Square is likely to see a big turnout, Abdu predicts.Tomorrow's planned protest in Tahrir Square is likely to see a big turnout, Abdu predicts.
From tonight the Muslim Brotherhood, and the Salafists and other non-Islamic political factions will be gathering in the square. They plan a sit-in until the election results are announced. Everybody is just waiting.From tonight the Muslim Brotherhood, and the Salafists and other non-Islamic political factions will be gathering in the square. They plan a sit-in until the election results are announced. Everybody is just waiting.
The military council has pledged to move Hosni Mubarak back to military prison if his condition improves. But Abdu said he doubted whether it would honour this commitment as Mubarak drifts in and out of consciousness. "His health has to increase considerably, before they would consider moving him back [to prison]. I don't think there is any rush to move him back," he said.The military council has pledged to move Hosni Mubarak back to military prison if his condition improves. But Abdu said he doubted whether it would honour this commitment as Mubarak drifts in and out of consciousness. "His health has to increase considerably, before they would consider moving him back [to prison]. I don't think there is any rush to move him back," he said.
Meanwhile, the election campaign of Mubarak's last prime minister Ahmed Shafiq claims the Muslim Brotherhood's figure don't tally with the turnout. They claim the Brotherhood has counted an extra two million votes, but they have offered little proof.Meanwhile, the election campaign of Mubarak's last prime minister Ahmed Shafiq claims the Muslim Brotherhood's figure don't tally with the turnout. They claim the Brotherhood has counted an extra two million votes, but they have offered little proof.
10.31am: Syria/Lebanon: The new leader of the opposition Syrian National Council, Abdulbaset Sieda, has urged Hezbollah to prepare for life without President Assad, NOW Lebanon reports. The Syrian and Iranian regimes are the Lebanese Shia organisation's main external backers.10.31am: Syria/Lebanon: The new leader of the opposition Syrian National Council, Abdulbaset Sieda, has urged Hezbollah to prepare for life without President Assad, NOW Lebanon reports. The Syrian and Iranian regimes are the Lebanese Shia organisation's main external backers.
"[Hezbollah] needs to get ready for the period that follows the departure of this [Syrian] regime," Sieda told Voice of Lebanon radio station."[Hezbollah] needs to get ready for the period that follows the departure of this [Syrian] regime," Sieda told Voice of Lebanon radio station.
Asked about Hezbollah's alleged involvement in the Syrian events, the SNC chief said: "We do not have [evidence] on this issue and we hope that we will not find any."Asked about Hezbollah's alleged involvement in the Syrian events, the SNC chief said: "We do not have [evidence] on this issue and we hope that we will not find any."
Hezbollah is the Syrian regime's strongest ally in Lebanon and it spearheads the March 8 [government] coalition.Hezbollah is the Syrian regime's strongest ally in Lebanon and it spearheads the March 8 [government] coalition.
9.46am: Egypt: Kenneth Roth, executive director of Human Right Watch, has attacked Catherine Ashton, the EU's high representative for foreign affairs, over a statement she issued yesterday congratulating Egyptians "on a successful second round of the presidential election".9.46am: Egypt: Kenneth Roth, executive director of Human Right Watch, has attacked Catherine Ashton, the EU's high representative for foreign affairs, over a statement she issued yesterday congratulating Egyptians "on a successful second round of the presidential election".
On Twitter, Roth says it is "an extraordinarily weak statement" about the "quasi-coup" which doesn't even mention the Egyptian military.On Twitter, Roth says it is "an extraordinarily weak statement" about the "quasi-coup" which doesn't even mention the Egyptian military.
An extraordinarily weak statement on #Egypt quasi-coup from EU High Rep Ashton. Doesn't even mention the military. bit.ly/NWxoVhAn extraordinarily weak statement on #Egypt quasi-coup from EU High Rep Ashton. Doesn't even mention the military. bit.ly/NWxoVh
— Kenneth Roth (@KenRoth) June 21, 2012— Kenneth Roth (@KenRoth) June 21, 2012
Describing the election as "a major step forward in the ongoing transition", Ashton's statement continues:Describing the election as "a major step forward in the ongoing transition", Ashton's statement continues:
She [Ashton] is, however, concerned about latest institutional developments surrounding the vote, in particular the dissolution of parliament and the constitutional declaration of 17 June, which seriously constrains the powers of the president, and creates uncertainties about the drafting of a new constitution.

The high representative stresses the importance of democratic institutions, a representative constitutional process and a speedy handover. The transition must respect the Egyptian people's aspirations and demands for dignity, democracy and freedom. The high representative reiterates the EU's eagerness to engage with Egypt's democratically elected authorities."		She [Ashton] is, however, concerned about latest institutional developments surrounding the vote, in particular the dissolution of parliament and the constitutional declaration of 17 June, which seriously constrains the powers of the president, and creates uncertainties about the drafting of a new constitution.

The high representative stresses the importance of democratic institutions, a representative constitutional process and a speedy handover. The transition must respect the Egyptian people's aspirations and demands for dignity, democracy and freedom. The high representative reiterates the EU's eagerness to engage with Egypt's democratically elected authorities."
9.36am: Syria: Residents in Homs claim the Syrian army is shelling central districts despite accepting a truce to allow the Red Cross to enter the city, Reuters reports.9.36am: Syria: Residents in Homs claim the Syrian army is shelling central districts despite accepting a truce to allow the Red Cross to enter the city, Reuters reports.
Waleed Fares, a resident of one neighbourhoods the ICRC was trying to enter, said shelling was heaviest at dawn on Thursday but there were signs the violence may be subsiding.Waleed Fares, a resident of one neighbourhoods the ICRC was trying to enter, said shelling was heaviest at dawn on Thursday but there were signs the violence may be subsiding.
"Early this morning there was heavy shelling. Now I can hear one or two mortars fall every half an hour. It is quiet today compared to the past few days," he said, adding that two people had died in his neighbourhood of Khalidiya on Thursday."Early this morning there was heavy shelling. Now I can hear one or two mortars fall every half an hour. It is quiet today compared to the past few days," he said, adding that two people had died in his neighbourhood of Khalidiya on Thursday.
Another video feed on the live streaming site Bambuser showed smoke rising from buildings amid the sound of gunfire.Another video feed on the live streaming site Bambuser showed smoke rising from buildings amid the sound of gunfire.
Two people were killed and several injured in Homs today, according to an update from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.Two people were killed and several injured in Homs today, according to an update from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
9.07am: Syria: US state department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland confirmed that diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis are centred on a possible deal to remove Assad from power.9.07am: Syria: US state department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland confirmed that diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis are centred on a possible deal to remove Assad from power.
At a press briefing on Wednesday she said:At a press briefing on Wednesday she said:
We are focused very much on elevating that aspect of the Kofi plan that has not gotten enough attention, and that is the political transition aspect. The plan calls for a political transition. We need, as we've said for many, many weeks here – this can go well or it can go badly. The international community can help the Syrians to manage a transition to a post-Assad Syria that is democratic, that is inclusive, that preserves the best of Syrian society, Syrian institutions, that stops the bleeding, stops the damage, or this will continue to devolve into civil war, proxy war, et cetera.We are focused very much on elevating that aspect of the Kofi plan that has not gotten enough attention, and that is the political transition aspect. The plan calls for a political transition. We need, as we've said for many, many weeks here – this can go well or it can go badly. The international community can help the Syrians to manage a transition to a post-Assad Syria that is democratic, that is inclusive, that preserves the best of Syrian society, Syrian institutions, that stops the bleeding, stops the damage, or this will continue to devolve into civil war, proxy war, et cetera.
So we are working very intensively with Kofi Annan and his people, in the wake of the President's meeting with President Putin, Premier Hu Jintao, the others in Los Cabos, to try to turn that commitment to supporting a political transition into a real framework that the – that can take us where we need to go ...So we are working very intensively with Kofi Annan and his people, in the wake of the President's meeting with President Putin, Premier Hu Jintao, the others in Los Cabos, to try to turn that commitment to supporting a political transition into a real framework that the – that can take us where we need to go ...
We are supportive of doing this meeting if it can make progress and specifically if it can make progress in shaping and framing a political transition process that can take us past the Assad regime and give Syrians of all stripes confidence in their future. So we're continuing to talk about what the elements of that might be.We are supportive of doing this meeting if it can make progress and specifically if it can make progress in shaping and framing a political transition process that can take us past the Assad regime and give Syrians of all stripes confidence in their future. So we're continuing to talk about what the elements of that might be.
8.28am: (all times BST) Welcome to Middle East Live.8.28am: (all times BST) Welcome to Middle East Live.
The delay in the presidential election results has added renewed uncertainty to Egypt's political crisis ahead of a planned protest against the military council. And as the fighting intensifies in Syria, world leaders haggle over a possible clemency deal for president Bashar al-Assad.The delay in the presidential election results has added renewed uncertainty to Egypt's political crisis ahead of a planned protest against the military council. And as the fighting intensifies in Syria, world leaders haggle over a possible clemency deal for president Bashar al-Assad.
Here's a summary of the latest developments:Here's a summary of the latest developments:
EgyptEgypt
• The election commission has delayed an announcement of the presidential election results while it considers appeals from the two candidates, both of whom claim to have won. The Muslim Brotherhood claims its candidate, Mohamed Morsi, won 13.2m votes, compared to Ahmed Shafiq's total 12.3m. A member of Shafiq's campaign, Tamir Wagih, told the Guardian that the Brotherhood's figures were based on incomplete results. The Shafiq campaign figures – which are not final – give their candidate 10.85m and Morsi 10.5m votes, with two million still to be counted.• The election commission has delayed an announcement of the presidential election results while it considers appeals from the two candidates, both of whom claim to have won. The Muslim Brotherhood claims its candidate, Mohamed Morsi, won 13.2m votes, compared to Ahmed Shafiq's total 12.3m. A member of Shafiq's campaign, Tamir Wagih, told the Guardian that the Brotherhood's figures were based on incomplete results. The Shafiq campaign figures – which are not final – give their candidate 10.85m and Morsi 10.5m votes, with two million still to be counted.
• The Muslim Brotherhood said the delay was unwarranted and claimed the military council was trying to secure an "alarming" backroom deal. Speaking to the BBC World Service, spokesman Jihad al-Haddad, said:• The Muslim Brotherhood said the delay was unwarranted and claimed the military council was trying to secure an "alarming" backroom deal. Speaking to the BBC World Service, spokesman Jihad al-Haddad, said:
There are efforts by intermediate parties who are trying to negotiate a settlement that the democratic forces in Egypt have to accept the dissolution of parliament in order for them to announce the result of the presidential election. This type of bidding is extremely threatening to the democratic transition.There are efforts by intermediate parties who are trying to negotiate a settlement that the democratic forces in Egypt have to accept the dissolution of parliament in order for them to announce the result of the presidential election. This type of bidding is extremely threatening to the democratic transition.
He added that even if Shafiq's complaints were entirely accepted and the Brotherhood's complaints entirely rejected, Morsi would still have won the election.He added that even if Shafiq's complaints were entirely accepted and the Brotherhood's complaints entirely rejected, Morsi would still have won the election.
• The results are likely to be declared on Saturday or Sunday as the security services appear to be preparing for Shafiq to be declared the winner, according to Jadaliyya.• The results are likely to be declared on Saturday or Sunday as the security services appear to be preparing for Shafiq to be declared the winner, according to Jadaliyya.
Security sources say they are working on a 'Plan B,' in which Shafiq would be declared president.Security sources say they are working on a 'Plan B,' in which Shafiq would be declared president.
"We're bracing for a major wave of rioting and unrest for at least two days, which could be incited by the Muslim Brotherhood after Shafiq is announced president," the security source said."We're bracing for a major wave of rioting and unrest for at least two days, which could be incited by the Muslim Brotherhood after Shafiq is announced president," the security source said.
• The Muslim Brotherhood and the Salafis Nour Party have warned of another revolution against the military council's decision to grant itself sweeping new powers, according to the Egypt Independent. They have called on Egyptians to go to Tahrir Square on Friday and take part in the "Return of Legitimacy" demonstration.• The Muslim Brotherhood and the Salafis Nour Party have warned of another revolution against the military council's decision to grant itself sweeping new powers, according to the Egypt Independent. They have called on Egyptians to go to Tahrir Square on Friday and take part in the "Return of Legitimacy" demonstration.
• Egypt's official news agency Mena is facing widespread criticism after reporting that former president Hosni Mubarak was 'clinically dead', the Egypt Independent reports.• Egypt's official news agency Mena is facing widespread criticism after reporting that former president Hosni Mubarak was 'clinically dead', the Egypt Independent reports.
The BBC network asked Mahmoud al-Shenawy, deputy editor of MENA, to confirm the procedures taken by the agency to verify the news of Mubarak's near-death. Shenawy replied that MENA decided to publish the news at the editor's discretion, without following the usual methods of verifying information via independent sources, and relying on testimony from unverified anonymous sources.The BBC network asked Mahmoud al-Shenawy, deputy editor of MENA, to confirm the procedures taken by the agency to verify the news of Mubarak's near-death. Shenawy replied that MENA decided to publish the news at the editor's discretion, without following the usual methods of verifying information via independent sources, and relying on testimony from unverified anonymous sources.
SyriaSyria
• Britain and America are willing to offer President Bashar al-Assad, safe passage – and even clemency – as part of a diplomatic push to convene a UN-sponsored conference in Geneva on political transition in Syria. In public Russian president Vladimir Putin has stated that no country has the right to tell Syria who its president should be. But in private talks at the G20 in Mexico, David Cameron and Barack Obama received enough encouragement from Putin to pursue the idea of a negotiated transition in Syria.• Britain and America are willing to offer President Bashar al-Assad, safe passage – and even clemency – as part of a diplomatic push to convene a UN-sponsored conference in Geneva on political transition in Syria. In public Russian president Vladimir Putin has stated that no country has the right to tell Syria who its president should be. But in private talks at the G20 in Mexico, David Cameron and Barack Obama received enough encouragement from Putin to pursue the idea of a negotiated transition in Syria.
On the basis of these discussions, the US secretary of state, Hillary Clinton, will now seek to persuade the former UN secretary general, Kofi Annan, to change the format of his plans to construct a contact group on Syria, and instead host a conference using the transition on Yemen as the model.On the basis of these discussions, the US secretary of state, Hillary Clinton, will now seek to persuade the former UN secretary general, Kofi Annan, to change the format of his plans to construct a contact group on Syria, and instead host a conference using the transition on Yemen as the model.
Participants would include representatives of the Syrian government, leading figures in the opposition, the five permanent members of the UN security council and key figures in the region, such as Turkey and Saudi Arabia. Russia has been pressing for Iran to be able to attend.Participants would include representatives of the Syrian government, leading figures in the opposition, the five permanent members of the UN security council and key figures in the region, such as Turkey and Saudi Arabia. Russia has been pressing for Iran to be able to attend.
• The proposed deal is a long shot that smacks of desperation, but nothing else is working, writes Ian Black.• The proposed deal is a long shot that smacks of desperation, but nothing else is working, writes Ian Black.
British officials see some slim possibility that Russia, keen on that Yemeni parallel, will now help pressure Assad – though it has conspicuously failed to do so so far. Moscow, still smarting over Libya, has balked at anything that smacks of "regime change" though it would be hard to attach that label to something that was agreed by Syrians under an international umbrella.British officials see some slim possibility that Russia, keen on that Yemeni parallel, will now help pressure Assad – though it has conspicuously failed to do so so far. Moscow, still smarting over Libya, has balked at anything that smacks of "regime change" though it would be hard to attach that label to something that was agreed by Syrians under an international umbrella.
The other very obvious snags are that Assad looks unlikely to bite while even the most pragmatic of his opponents – their numbers dwindling as the crisis deepens – would find it hard to believe he will negotiate in good faith. In an increasingly sectarian atmosphere, the president's departure would not solve the problem of his closest advisers and cronies as well as the wider Alawite community which dominates the security forces and fears revenge by the Sunni majority.The other very obvious snags are that Assad looks unlikely to bite while even the most pragmatic of his opponents – their numbers dwindling as the crisis deepens – would find it hard to believe he will negotiate in good faith. In an increasingly sectarian atmosphere, the president's departure would not solve the problem of his closest advisers and cronies as well as the wider Alawite community which dominates the security forces and fears revenge by the Sunni majority.
Kofi Annan will probably back this idea because pronouncing his peace plan dead would be too dangerous. But the bitter truth is almost all parts of it have been ignored.Kofi Annan will probably back this idea because pronouncing his peace plan dead would be too dangerous. But the bitter truth is almost all parts of it have been ignored.
• The International Committee of the Red Cross said it had received assurances from the Syrian government and opposition forces on a plan for a temporary truce to evacuate those trapped and injured by the violence in Homs, the LA Times reports. But reports from pro-opposition activists in Homs indicated that the government had continued shelling, clashes were ongoing and there was no sign of a relief operation. Rebels were also reportedly on the offensive, seeking to reoccupy the battered Baba Amr district.• The International Committee of the Red Cross said it had received assurances from the Syrian government and opposition forces on a plan for a temporary truce to evacuate those trapped and injured by the violence in Homs, the LA Times reports. But reports from pro-opposition activists in Homs indicated that the government had continued shelling, clashes were ongoing and there was no sign of a relief operation. Rebels were also reportedly on the offensive, seeking to reoccupy the battered Baba Amr district.
• David Cameron considered ordering British special forces to board and impound a ship suspected of carrying refurbished Russian helicopter gunships to Syria, according to the Telegraph.• David Cameron considered ordering British special forces to board and impound a ship suspected of carrying refurbished Russian helicopter gunships to Syria, according to the Telegraph.
Cobra, the government's emergency security committee, met several times as the MV Alaed approached British waters.Cobra, the government's emergency security committee, met several times as the MV Alaed approached British waters.
With the United States placing pressure on Britain to halt the vessel, the prime minister was regularly briefed on the situation. It is understood that he was presented with several options including a military seizure of the ship.With the United States placing pressure on Britain to halt the vessel, the prime minister was regularly briefed on the situation. It is understood that he was presented with several options including a military seizure of the ship.
Avoiding a confrontation that could have damaged already strained ties with Russia, the government instead took action to ensure that the Alaed's insurance cover was withdrawn.Avoiding a confrontation that could have damaged already strained ties with Russia, the government instead took action to ensure that the Alaed's insurance cover was withdrawn.
BahrainBahrain
• Prosecutors in Bahrain have charged 11-year-old Ali Hasan with taking part in an illegal gathering, which could see him sent to jail. He already spent a nearly a month in a juvenile detention after being accused of helping protesters block a street, before being released last week to await trial. He told the Guardian he was merely playing with friends in the street and had nothing to do with the protests.• Prosecutors in Bahrain have charged 11-year-old Ali Hasan with taking part in an illegal gathering, which could see him sent to jail. He already spent a nearly a month in a juvenile detention after being accused of helping protesters block a street, before being released last week to await trial. He told the Guardian he was merely playing with friends in the street and had nothing to do with the protests.
• Britain is being urged to deny entry to the head of Bahrain's Olympic committee – the son of the king – on the grounds of alleged involvement in serious human rights violations. Prince Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa is claimed to have been "personally engaged" in beating, flogging and kicking pro-democracy protesters.• Britain is being urged to deny entry to the head of Bahrain's Olympic committee – the son of the king – on the grounds of alleged involvement in serious human rights violations. Prince Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa is claimed to have been "personally engaged" in beating, flogging and kicking pro-democracy protesters.
KuwaitKuwait
• Kuwait is on the "brink of political meltdown" after the constitution court dissolve the Islamist-dominated parliament elected in February and reinstated the previous national assembly, according to Kristian Coates Ulrichsen research fellow at LSE. Writing in Foreign Policy magazine he said:• Kuwait is on the "brink of political meltdown" after the constitution court dissolve the Islamist-dominated parliament elected in February and reinstated the previous national assembly, according to Kristian Coates Ulrichsen research fellow at LSE. Writing in Foreign Policy magazine he said:
There is a danger that the opposition will respond to the voiding of the election by urging its supporters to once again take to the streets. Individual (now-ex) MPs threatened to do precisely this even before the brazenly provocative judgement of the Constitutional Court deprived them of their parliamentary success. Having witnessed how the mobilization of tens of thousands of supporters effectively forced the Emir's hand last November, an emboldened opposition may well attempt to repeat the trick this time around.There is a danger that the opposition will respond to the voiding of the election by urging its supporters to once again take to the streets. Individual (now-ex) MPs threatened to do precisely this even before the brazenly provocative judgement of the Constitutional Court deprived them of their parliamentary success. Having witnessed how the mobilization of tens of thousands of supporters effectively forced the Emir's hand last November, an emboldened opposition may well attempt to repeat the trick this time around.