Syrian military steps up attacks on Homs, leaving dozens dead

In Syria, military shelling on the central city of Homs continued today, killing more than 80, according to local activists and media reports. Three journalists have also been killed, including Syrian videographer Rami al-Sayed, who friends and residents remembered for his bravery and for shedding light on the violence and attacks. The French government confirmed the identities of two Western journalists who were killed, Remi Ochlik, a photographer, and American Marie Colvin, who was working for Britain’s Sunday Times. Human rights groups have warned of a humanitarian crisis in Homs, and The International Red Cross is calling for a daily cease fire in order to allow medical access to civilians. Many residents in Homs have been cut off from vital supplies and medicine since an attack by Syria’s military stepped up nearly three weeks ago. Also today, an anti government demonstration took place in Hama. A video posted online by the Activist News Association, a Cairo-based group, showed crowds of people in the street waving the rebel flag. Activists also reported Syrian military helicopters with machine guns opening fire in the northern village of Ifis and government forces conducting raids in Damascus neighborhoods, setting up checkpoints and entering homes and shops. This week, US officials have suggested the possibility of aiding opposition forces more directly. Senator John McCain said the US should increase “assistance” to rebels, including the possibility of training. When asked today specifically about military intervention in Syria, White House Press Secretary Jay Carney said diplomatic measures would still be the priority.

“Right now, and I was asked this yesterday and I just want to make it clear that we do not believe that adding to the militarization of Syria is the right approach. We believe that the right approach is for the international community to speak with one voice to pressure Assad and get him to relinquish power and to cease the brutal assault on his own people.”

On Friday, Tunisia is scheduled to host a conference on Syria for international delegates to discuss the situation. Last week, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution condemning the “widespread and systematic” human rights violations in Syria.