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Britain, Germany, France expel Syrian diplomats – live updates Britain, Germany, France expel Syrian diplomats – Tuesday 29 May
(40 minutes later)
3.58pm: Here's a summary of the latest developments.
Syria
• Australia, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and the United States are all expelling Syrian ambassadors and/or diplomats in protest at the Houla massacre.
• The UN human rights office says investigators have concluded that children were among almost 90 people summarily executed in Houla on Friday. A spokesman for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights says UN monitors found that fewer than 20 of the 108 people killed died from artillery fire.
• Kofi Annan has had a meeting in Damascus with President Assad. Syria claims that Annan praised "the positive spirit of coordination between the Syrian government and observers" (see 2.54pm).
Bahrain
• The Bahraini regime has boasted of "exceptional" military cooperation with Britain (see 2.10pm).
Egypt
• Protesters returned to the streets in Cairo, Alexandria and Suez last night following the official announcement of a presidential election run-off between former prime minister Ahmed Shafiq and Muslim Brotherhood candidate Mohammed Morsi.
• In Cairo, a mob set fire to a building connected with Shafiq's campaign headquarters. Al-Jazeera says the blaze was quickly extinguished and eight people were arrested.
Libya
• Oil company Royal Dutch Shell says it "intends to suspend and abandon drilled wells and stop exploration in (its) Libyan licences". A spokesman quoted by Dow Jones Newswires says "further exploration cannot be economically justified". Citing "people familiar with the matter", Dow Jones says insecurity in Libya was a factor in the decision.
• Militias holding Colonel Gaddafi's son, Saif al-Islam, have delayed handing him over to the authorities in Tripoli because they did not get their salaries as promised, the Tripoli Post reports.
3.22pm: Syria: British foreign secretary William Hague has issued a statement about the expulsion of the Syrian charge d'affaires:3.22pm: Syria: British foreign secretary William Hague has issued a statement about the expulsion of the Syrian charge d'affaires:
We have been seeking in recent days to increase the pressure on the Assad regime and to get the message across to them that the world, the international community, is appalled by the violence that has continued, by the behaviour of the regime and by the murder of so many innocent people, including in the terrible massacre at El Houla which was reported at the end of last week. We want to get the message across to them that they have to choose, that time will run out for the Annan plan and that they have to make the choice about what they are going to do.We have been seeking in recent days to increase the pressure on the Assad regime and to get the message across to them that the world, the international community, is appalled by the violence that has continued, by the behaviour of the regime and by the murder of so many innocent people, including in the terrible massacre at El Houla which was reported at the end of last week. We want to get the message across to them that they have to choose, that time will run out for the Annan plan and that they have to make the choice about what they are going to do.
So as part of that pressure today we have again called the Syrian Chargé in London here to the Foreign Office. He has been given seven days to leave the country. Two other Syrian diplomats will be expelled at the same time, and our allies and partners around the world will be taking similar action.So as part of that pressure today we have again called the Syrian Chargé in London here to the Foreign Office. He has been given seven days to leave the country. Two other Syrian diplomats will be expelled at the same time, and our allies and partners around the world will be taking similar action.
Of course we will seek other ways to increase the pressure as well. We are discussing in the European Union a further tightening of sanctions on Syria. I have had the discussions with Russia yesterday... and the Russian Foreign Minister did agree with me yesterday that it is necessary to increase the pressure on all concerned, including the Assad regime, to implement the Annan plan – something that the regime has so far failed to do. We will continue to discuss this with Russia, since Russia has particular leverage over the regime and therefore a particular role in this crisis.Of course we will seek other ways to increase the pressure as well. We are discussing in the European Union a further tightening of sanctions on Syria. I have had the discussions with Russia yesterday... and the Russian Foreign Minister did agree with me yesterday that it is necessary to increase the pressure on all concerned, including the Assad regime, to implement the Annan plan – something that the regime has so far failed to do. We will continue to discuss this with Russia, since Russia has particular leverage over the regime and therefore a particular role in this crisis.
2.54pm: Syria: The goverment news agency has issued a report of this morning's Annan-Assad meeting in Damascus. The English version says:2.54pm: Syria: The goverment news agency has issued a report of this morning's Annan-Assad meeting in Damascus. The English version says:
During the meeting, President al-Assad pointed out that the armed terrorist groups escalated their terrorist acts noticeably as of late in various areas across Syria, committing murder and abduction against Syrian citizens in addition to robberies and targeting public and private properties with arson and vandalism.During the meeting, President al-Assad pointed out that the armed terrorist groups escalated their terrorist acts noticeably as of late in various areas across Syria, committing murder and abduction against Syrian citizens in addition to robberies and targeting public and private properties with arson and vandalism.
The Arabic version adds that Assad said "the countries that are funding, arming and harboring terrorist groups" should cease doing so. It also says that Annan praised "the positive spirit of coordination between the Syrian government and observers".The Arabic version adds that Assad said "the countries that are funding, arming and harboring terrorist groups" should cease doing so. It also says that Annan praised "the positive spirit of coordination between the Syrian government and observers".
2.44pm: Syria: Thirty-two people have been killed so far today, including one woman, five children and five members of the Free Syrian Army, according to the Local Coordination Committees activist movement.2.44pm: Syria: Thirty-two people have been killed so far today, including one woman, five children and five members of the Free Syrian Army, according to the Local Coordination Committees activist movement.
Eleven are reported killed in Homs, six in Damascus suburbs (Erbeen, Qatana, Kafar Batna and Ain Terma), five in Aleppo (Atareb), three in Hama, three in Daraa (Yadouda and Om Walad), two in Idlib, one in Damascus, and one in Deir Ezzor.Eleven are reported killed in Homs, six in Damascus suburbs (Erbeen, Qatana, Kafar Batna and Ain Terma), five in Aleppo (Atareb), three in Hama, three in Daraa (Yadouda and Om Walad), two in Idlib, one in Damascus, and one in Deir Ezzor.
2.35pm: Bahrain: The government news agency reports that Commander-in-Chief Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa had a chat this morning with the British ambassador, Lain Lindsay.2.35pm: Bahrain: The government news agency reports that Commander-in-Chief Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa had a chat this morning with the British ambassador, Lain Lindsay.
The meeting discussed the exceptional bilateral relations of friendship and cooperation between the two countries, especially those related to military cooperation and exchange of expertise, and ways to develop them.The meeting discussed the exceptional bilateral relations of friendship and cooperation between the two countries, especially those related to military cooperation and exchange of expertise, and ways to develop them.
2.10pm: Bahrain: The justice minister has announced the establishment of a formal unit to oversee and follow up implementation of the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry's report recommendations, according to a press release from the Information Affairs Authority. It says:2.10pm: Bahrain: The justice minister has announced the establishment of a formal unit to oversee and follow up implementation of the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry's report recommendations, according to a press release from the Information Affairs Authority. It says:
The unit will assist the minister in the oversight of the implementation process and will be responsible for coordinating duties with all relevant government bodies and agencies.The unit will assist the minister in the oversight of the implementation process and will be responsible for coordinating duties with all relevant government bodies and agencies.
It will also be responsible for preparing progress and evaluation reports to make certain that the implementation process adheres to the guidelines, procedures, and standards outlined in the BICI and the National Commission's reports.It will also be responsible for preparing progress and evaluation reports to make certain that the implementation process adheres to the guidelines, procedures, and standards outlined in the BICI and the National Commission's reports.
Dana al-Zayani has been appointed to head the unit and Hussein Alam was named Director of Follow-up. Additionally, Judge Khaled Muhiddin Ahmed, an adviser to the Supreme Judicial Council for Planning and Development, has been appointed as an adviser to the follow-up unit.Dana al-Zayani has been appointed to head the unit and Hussein Alam was named Director of Follow-up. Additionally, Judge Khaled Muhiddin Ahmed, an adviser to the Supreme Judicial Council for Planning and Development, has been appointed as an adviser to the follow-up unit.
2.06pm: Here's a summary of the latest developments:2.06pm: Here's a summary of the latest developments:
SyriaSyria
• In a coordinated protest over the Houla massacre, Britain, France, the United States and three other European countries, plus Australia and Canada, have announced the expulsion of Syrian ambassadors and/or other diplomats.• In a coordinated protest over the Houla massacre, Britain, France, the United States and three other European countries, plus Australia and Canada, have announced the expulsion of Syrian ambassadors and/or other diplomats.
• Kofi Annan has been meeting President Assad in Damascus. A statement is awaited.• Kofi Annan has been meeting President Assad in Damascus. A statement is awaited.
• The UN human rights office says investigators have concluded that children were among almost 90 people summarily executed in Houla on Friday. A spokesman for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights says UN monitors found that fewer than 20 of the 108 people killed died from artillery fire.• The UN human rights office says investigators have concluded that children were among almost 90 people summarily executed in Houla on Friday. A spokesman for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights says UN monitors found that fewer than 20 of the 108 people killed died from artillery fire.
EgyptEgypt
• Protesters returned to the streets in Cairo, Alexandria and Suez last night following the official announcement of a presidential election run-off between former prime minister Ahmed Shafiq and Muslim Brotherhood candidate Mohammed Morsi.• Protesters returned to the streets in Cairo, Alexandria and Suez last night following the official announcement of a presidential election run-off between former prime minister Ahmed Shafiq and Muslim Brotherhood candidate Mohammed Morsi.
• In Cairo, a mob set fire to a building connected with Shafiq's campaign headquarters. Al-Jazeera says the blaze was quickly extinguished and eight people were arrested. • In Cairo, a mob set fire to a building connected with Shafiq's campaign headquarters. Al-Jazeera says the blaze was quickly extinguished and eight people were arrested.
LibyaLibya
• Oil company Royal Dutch Shell says it "intends to suspend and abandon drilled wells and stop exploration in (its) Libyan licences". A spokesman quoted by Dow Jones Newswires says "further exploration cannot be economically justified". Citing "people familiar with the matter", Dow Jones says insecurity in Libya was a factor in the decision.• Oil company Royal Dutch Shell says it "intends to suspend and abandon drilled wells and stop exploration in (its) Libyan licences". A spokesman quoted by Dow Jones Newswires says "further exploration cannot be economically justified". Citing "people familiar with the matter", Dow Jones says insecurity in Libya was a factor in the decision.
• Militias holding Colonel Gaddafi's son, Saif al-Islam, have delayed handing him over to the authorities in Tripoli because they did not get their salaries as promised, the Tripoli Post reports.• Militias holding Colonel Gaddafi's son, Saif al-Islam, have delayed handing him over to the authorities in Tripoli because they did not get their salaries as promised, the Tripoli Post reports.
1.55pm: Syria: Insurgents have killed 20 soldiers in heavy fighting around a northern Syrian town close to the border with Turkey, Reuters reports citing opposition sources.1.55pm: Syria: Insurgents have killed 20 soldiers in heavy fighting around a northern Syrian town close to the border with Turkey, Reuters reports citing opposition sources.
They said six civilians and six rebels, including two rebel commanders, were also killed in the past 24 hours after the army launched an offensive with tanks and helicopters to retake the region around Atareb in Aleppo province, 18 km (11 miles) east of the Turkish border.They said six civilians and six rebels, including two rebel commanders, were also killed in the past 24 hours after the army launched an offensive with tanks and helicopters to retake the region around Atareb in Aleppo province, 18 km (11 miles) east of the Turkish border.
Most of the soldiers were killed when rebels attacked a column of armoured vehicles and pickup trucks carrying 'shabbiha', a pro-Assad militia, en route to Atareb from an army base to the east of the town, the opposition said.Most of the soldiers were killed when rebels attacked a column of armoured vehicles and pickup trucks carrying 'shabbiha', a pro-Assad militia, en route to Atareb from an army base to the east of the town, the opposition said.
"Four tanks and armoured vehicles were hit. At least 10 troops were captured," said Ahmad Kinan, an opposition activist in contact with the rebels ..."Four tanks and armoured vehicles were hit. At least 10 troops were captured," said Ahmad Kinan, an opposition activist in contact with the rebels ...
Another opposition source said rebels, who are lightly armoured and operate mostly at night to evade army helicopters, withdrew from Atareb at dawn, but that the army continued to shell the town, destroying dozens of houses and other buildings.Another opposition source said rebels, who are lightly armoured and operate mostly at night to evade army helicopters, withdrew from Atareb at dawn, but that the army continued to shell the town, destroying dozens of houses and other buildings.
The video above, posted on YouTube today, is said to show scenes from Atareb. On the EAWorldView website, James Miller explains the town's significance:The video above, posted on YouTube today, is said to show scenes from Atareb. On the EAWorldView website, James Miller explains the town's significance:
Atareb is situated between Aleppo, a city which the regime cannot afford to lose, and Idlib, a region that he has arguably already lost, perhaps not in the strict military sense, but in public opinion and in strategic sense.Atareb is situated between Aleppo, a city which the regime cannot afford to lose, and Idlib, a region that he has arguably already lost, perhaps not in the strict military sense, but in public opinion and in strategic sense.
Assad cannot afford to allow the FSA to hold Atareb, nor can he afford to take heavy loses there. By the same token, any large-scale military attack on a town may lead to many civilian deaths, deaths which will likely be used as ammunition by those who wish to see international action against the Assad regime.Assad cannot afford to allow the FSA to hold Atareb, nor can he afford to take heavy loses there. By the same token, any large-scale military attack on a town may lead to many civilian deaths, deaths which will likely be used as ammunition by those who wish to see international action against the Assad regime.
1.38pm: Syria: Austria says it is summoning the Syrian ambassador in Vienna to deliver "a very hard protest about the massacre". However, foreign ministry spokesman Nikolaus Lutterotti said the ambassador would not be expelled as he holds an additional function as the representative to the UN organisations in Vienna.1.38pm: Syria: Austria says it is summoning the Syrian ambassador in Vienna to deliver "a very hard protest about the massacre". However, foreign ministry spokesman Nikolaus Lutterotti said the ambassador would not be expelled as he holds an additional function as the representative to the UN organisations in Vienna.
1.20pm: Egypt: The Muslim Brotherhood's candidate in next month's runoff vote for Egypt's president says he will ensure the full rights of Christians and women if he is elected, AP reports.1.20pm: Egypt: The Muslim Brotherhood's candidate in next month's runoff vote for Egypt's president says he will ensure the full rights of Christians and women if he is elected, AP reports.
The Islamist group's Mohammed Morsi also sought to reassure pro-democracy youth groups behind the uprising that toppled Hosni Mubarak's regime 15 months ago, saying the right to stage peaceful protests will be protected.The Islamist group's Mohammed Morsi also sought to reassure pro-democracy youth groups behind the uprising that toppled Hosni Mubarak's regime 15 months ago, saying the right to stage peaceful protests will be protected.
Speaking in a news conference today, Morsi also promised a broad coalition government and that the country's new constitution will be written by a panel that truly represents the nation.Speaking in a news conference today, Morsi also promised a broad coalition government and that the country's new constitution will be written by a panel that truly represents the nation.
He said he planned to appoint Christians as presidential advisers and name one as vice president "if possible." He said he will not impose an Islamic dress code in public for women.He said he planned to appoint Christians as presidential advisers and name one as vice president "if possible." He said he will not impose an Islamic dress code in public for women.
1.14pm: Syria: Canada is expelling all Syrian diplomats who are still in Ottawa, and giving them five days to leave, CBC News reports.1.14pm: Syria: Canada is expelling all Syrian diplomats who are still in Ottawa, and giving them five days to leave, CBC News reports.
1.02pm: Syria: The Syrian charge d'affaires in London was summoned to the Foreign Office yesterday for a dressing-down over what political director Sir Geoffrey Adams described as "a sickening and evil crime", the Press Association reports.1.02pm: Syria: The Syrian charge d'affaires in London was summoned to the Foreign Office yesterday for a dressing-down over what political director Sir Geoffrey Adams described as "a sickening and evil crime", the Press Association reports.
Sir Geoffrey told the Syrian diplomat that Britain wanted all those responsible to be identified and held accountable and warned of "further quick and robust action" from the international community unless all military operations ceased immediately.Sir Geoffrey told the Syrian diplomat that Britain wanted all those responsible to be identified and held accountable and warned of "further quick and robust action" from the international community unless all military operations ceased immediately.
12.53pm: Syria: A note on the diplomatic expulsions – and Annan's meeting in Damascus – from Ian Black, the Guardian's Middle East editor:12.53pm: Syria: A note on the diplomatic expulsions – and Annan's meeting in Damascus – from Ian Black, the Guardian's Middle East editor:
Britain, France, the United States and three other European countries are expelling the ambassadors of Syria in protest at the massacre of more than 100 people, including scores of children, in Houla near Hama last weekend.Britain, France, the United States and three other European countries are expelling the ambassadors of Syria in protest at the massacre of more than 100 people, including scores of children, in Houla near Hama last weekend.
The coordinated international diplomatic action came as Kofi Annan, representing the UN and the Arab League, met President Bashar al-Assad in Damascus "to convey the grave concern of the international community about the violence in Syria" and the prospects for the implementation of his apparently failing six-point plan.The coordinated international diplomatic action came as Kofi Annan, representing the UN and the Arab League, met President Bashar al-Assad in Damascus "to convey the grave concern of the international community about the violence in Syria" and the prospects for the implementation of his apparently failing six-point plan.
Australia also said that it was expelling the Syrian ambassador. Syria has flatly denied responsibility for the atrocity, calling it a "terrorist massacre." It is understood that the US, Spain and Italy will follow suit.Australia also said that it was expelling the Syrian ambassador. Syria has flatly denied responsibility for the atrocity, calling it a "terrorist massacre." It is understood that the US, Spain and Italy will follow suit.
France's President Francois Hollande was the first European leader to announce the expulsion of the ambassador, describing it as "not a unilateral decision but in consultation with our partners". Britain's decision was due to be made public by Wiliam Hague, the foreign secretarty, shortly afterwards.France's President Francois Hollande was the first European leader to announce the expulsion of the ambassador, describing it as "not a unilateral decision but in consultation with our partners". Britain's decision was due to be made public by Wiliam Hague, the foreign secretarty, shortly afterwards.
It was not immediately clear why other members of the 27-strong EU had not joined in.It was not immediately clear why other members of the 27-strong EU had not joined in.
Britain withdrew its ambassador and effectively closed its embassy in Damascus on security grounds earlier this year. That meant there was little to lose by taking this punitive step. But its effect will be largely symbolic. Syria's ambassador, Sami Khiyami, left London some months ago. The charge d'affaires, Ghassan Dalla, was given the news when he was called into the foreign office. Two other Syrian diplomats have also been told to leave the UK.Britain withdrew its ambassador and effectively closed its embassy in Damascus on security grounds earlier this year. That meant there was little to lose by taking this punitive step. But its effect will be largely symbolic. Syria's ambassador, Sami Khiyami, left London some months ago. The charge d'affaires, Ghassan Dalla, was given the news when he was called into the foreign office. Two other Syrian diplomats have also been told to leave the UK.
Annan met Assad "to convey the grave concern of the international community about the violence in Syria, including in particular the recent events in Houleh," reported his spokesman, Ahmed Fawzi.Annan met Assad "to convey the grave concern of the international community about the violence in Syria, including in particular the recent events in Houleh," reported his spokesman, Ahmed Fawzi.
"He conveyed in frank terms his view to President Assad that the six-point plan cannot succeed without bold steps to stop the violence and release detainees, and stressed the importance of full implementation of the plan.""He conveyed in frank terms his view to President Assad that the six-point plan cannot succeed without bold steps to stop the violence and release detainees, and stressed the importance of full implementation of the plan."
Annan is to give a press conference later.Annan is to give a press conference later.
12.45pm: Syria: Tributes are being posted online to filmmaker and photography student Bassel Shehade, who was reportedly killed in Homs yesterday.12.45pm: Syria: Tributes are being posted online to filmmaker and photography student Bassel Shehade, who was reportedly killed in Homs yesterday.
Here's one from the Free Syrian Translators website:Here's one from the Free Syrian Translators website:
Bassel Shehadeh, from al-Qasa'a neighborhood in Damascus, a Fulbright scholar studying filmmaking at the University of Syracuse in the United States of America.Bassel Shehadeh, from al-Qasa'a neighborhood in Damascus, a Fulbright scholar studying filmmaking at the University of Syracuse in the United States of America.
Basel left his university at the beginning of the Syrian revolution and returned home to report on what is happening on the ground and convey it to the world.Basel left his university at the beginning of the Syrian revolution and returned home to report on what is happening on the ground and convey it to the world.
He moved to Homs three months ago, and became one of the most important and courageous photographers/filmmakers in Homs. He taught video-editing to the photographers in Homs and trained more than fifteen people during his stay there.He moved to Homs three months ago, and became one of the most important and courageous photographers/filmmakers in Homs. He taught video-editing to the photographers in Homs and trained more than fifteen people during his stay there.
12.27pm: Syria: The diplomatic expulsions are gathering pace, in what looks like a co-ordinated move. Germany has now announced it is expelling the Syrian ambassador.12.27pm: Syria: The diplomatic expulsions are gathering pace, in what looks like a co-ordinated move. Germany has now announced it is expelling the Syrian ambassador.
Britain is expelling the Syrian charge d'affaires (the ambassador left some time ago).Britain is expelling the Syrian charge d'affaires (the ambassador left some time ago).
11.52am: Syria: President Bashar al-Assad is murdering the Syrian people and must step down from power as soon as possible, French foreign minister Laurent Fabius said in remarks published today.11.52am: Syria: President Bashar al-Assad is murdering the Syrian people and must step down from power as soon as possible, French foreign minister Laurent Fabius said in remarks published today.
"Bashar al-Assad is the murderer of his people. He must relinquish power. The sooner the better," Fabius said in an interview with French daily Le Monde."Bashar al-Assad is the murderer of his people. He must relinquish power. The sooner the better," Fabius said in an interview with French daily Le Monde.
A few minutes ago, France announced the expulsion of Syria's ambassador, while earlier today Australia said it would expel two Syrian diplomats.A few minutes ago, France announced the expulsion of Syria's ambassador, while earlier today Australia said it would expel two Syrian diplomats.
More expulsions are likely to be announced by other countries during the next few hours.More expulsions are likely to be announced by other countries during the next few hours.
11.41am: Syria: President Francois Hollande says France is expelling Syrian ambassador.11.41am: Syria: President Francois Hollande says France is expelling Syrian ambassador.
11.25am: Libya: Militias holding Colonel Gaddafi's son, Saif al-Islam, have delayed handing him over to the authorities in Tripoli because they did not get their salaries as promised, the Tripoli Post reports.11.25am: Libya: Militias holding Colonel Gaddafi's son, Saif al-Islam, have delayed handing him over to the authorities in Tripoli because they did not get their salaries as promised, the Tripoli Post reports.
Citing Ahmed al-Jehani, Libya's representative to the International Criminal Court, the paper says Zintan militias are seeking payment of six months' wages (which could amount to $1.36m) before transferring Gaddafi. The report continues:Citing Ahmed al-Jehani, Libya's representative to the International Criminal Court, the paper says Zintan militias are seeking payment of six months' wages (which could amount to $1.36m) before transferring Gaddafi. The report continues:
While denying that this money represented some kind of compensation for the transfer of Saif, Jehani said it was a normal demand. It is just the salary of the thuwar for their work in recent months.While denying that this money represented some kind of compensation for the transfer of Saif, Jehani said it was a normal demand. It is just the salary of the thuwar for their work in recent months.
Jehani told AFP: "Initially the NTC said they were ready to pay this sum. But when the time came, they failed to meet their commitments."Jehani told AFP: "Initially the NTC said they were ready to pay this sum. But when the time came, they failed to meet their commitments."
11.04am: Egypt: Matthew Cassel gives a detailed account of last night's attack on the Shafiq HQ, in an article for al-Jazeera:11.04am: Egypt: Matthew Cassel gives a detailed account of last night's attack on the Shafiq HQ, in an article for al-Jazeera:
In the nearby Dokki area of Giza, just a few kilometres away from Tahrir Square, a breakaway march of a few hundred marched to Shafiq's campaign headquarters ...In the nearby Dokki area of Giza, just a few kilometres away from Tahrir Square, a breakaway march of a few hundred marched to Shafiq's campaign headquarters ...
Once they reached Shafiq's headquarters, many marchers did not stop. They kept marching as a few activsts shouted that they had arrived at their intended destination.Once they reached Shafiq's headquarters, many marchers did not stop. They kept marching as a few activsts shouted that they had arrived at their intended destination.
"Are you sure? We don't want the wrong one," shouted back others, and the argument went on for a few minutes."Are you sure? We don't want the wrong one," shouted back others, and the argument went on for a few minutes.
After a few minutes of arguing, someone climbed over the gates and returned a minute later with a package. He stuck his hand inside and tossed tens of campaign fliers with Shafiq's face into the air.After a few minutes of arguing, someone climbed over the gates and returned a minute later with a package. He stuck his hand inside and tossed tens of campaign fliers with Shafiq's face into the air.
The crowd roared as others began to also jump the gate or bring it down with whatever objects they could find on the street.The crowd roared as others began to also jump the gate or bring it down with whatever objects they could find on the street.
10.53am: Syria: The front page of the government news agency's website has a photo of Annan and Assad sitting together at their meeting this morning. As yet, there's no word about their talks.10.53am: Syria: The front page of the government news agency's website has a photo of Annan and Assad sitting together at their meeting this morning. As yet, there's no word about their talks.
10.43am: Syria: The UN human rights office says investigators have concluded that children were among almost 90 people summarily executed in the Syrian area of Houla on Friday, AP reports.10.43am: Syria: The UN human rights office says investigators have concluded that children were among almost 90 people summarily executed in the Syrian area of Houla on Friday, AP reports.
A spokesman for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights says UN monitors found that fewer than 20 of the 108 people killed died from artillery fire.A spokesman for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights says UN monitors found that fewer than 20 of the 108 people killed died from artillery fire.
Rupert Colville told reporters in Geneva that most of the other victims were summarily executed in two separate incidents.Rupert Colville told reporters in Geneva that most of the other victims were summarily executed in two separate incidents.
Colville says the conclusions of the UN monitors are corroborated by other sources. He says witnesses blamed pro-government militias for the attacks.Colville says the conclusions of the UN monitors are corroborated by other sources. He says witnesses blamed pro-government militias for the attacks.
10.38am: Syria: The Syrian opposition has plans to take control of the Assad regime's chemical weapons depots and secure them in the first hours after the regime collapses, according to the Israeli newspaper, Haaretz.10.38am: Syria: The Syrian opposition has plans to take control of the Assad regime's chemical weapons depots and secure them in the first hours after the regime collapses, according to the Israeli newspaper, Haaretz.
"There are a group of us preparing for the chaos that we know will ensue on the day the regime is toppled," an opposition figure described as a former senior officer in the Syrian army told the paper. "We have committees dealing with a new constitution and elections, justice and the restoration of security.""There are a group of us preparing for the chaos that we know will ensue on the day the regime is toppled," an opposition figure described as a former senior officer in the Syrian army told the paper. "We have committees dealing with a new constitution and elections, justice and the restoration of security."
In Haaretz's report, the unnamed opposition figure continues:In Haaretz's report, the unnamed opposition figure continues:
We have divided the aftermath into four periods with different priorities for each day. The first period is the first day, the first hours after Assad's control breaks down, and one of the priorities during those hours is taking control of the chemical weapons so they won't fall into the hands of terrorists.We have divided the aftermath into four periods with different priorities for each day. The first period is the first day, the first hours after Assad's control breaks down, and one of the priorities during those hours is taking control of the chemical weapons so they won't fall into the hands of terrorists.
We know the locations of the chemical weapon stores and we will be ready to move and secure them quickly. I can't promise that nothing will be removed but we have our information and it is not so simple to move around chemical weapons.We know the locations of the chemical weapon stores and we will be ready to move and secure them quickly. I can't promise that nothing will be removed but we have our information and it is not so simple to move around chemical weapons.
The opposition figure is also quoted as saying that around a third of the Syrian armed forces have defected:The opposition figure is also quoted as saying that around a third of the Syrian armed forces have defected:
There are two kinds of defectors ... the majority, around 60,000, have simply run away, back to their homes, while some 30,000 have actively joined the opposition, mostly the Free Syrian Army, and are fighting.There are two kinds of defectors ... the majority, around 60,000, have simply run away, back to their homes, while some 30,000 have actively joined the opposition, mostly the Free Syrian Army, and are fighting.
10.23am: Syria/Lebanon: The Daily Star in Beirut has more detail on this morning's border incident:10.23am: Syria/Lebanon: The Daily Star in Beirut has more detail on this morning's border incident:
Abdel-Ghani al-Jebbawi, 42, was shot and killed by the Syrian army at around 3am while he, two of his brothers and a friend were hunting rabbits in the mountains of Ras Baalbek, some 25km north of Arsal, Baalbek, east Lebanon.Abdel-Ghani al-Jebbawi, 42, was shot and killed by the Syrian army at around 3am while he, two of his brothers and a friend were hunting rabbits in the mountains of Ras Baalbek, some 25km north of Arsal, Baalbek, east Lebanon.
Jebbawi's two brothers and friend were wounded in the incident.Jebbawi's two brothers and friend were wounded in the incident.
The high and barren mountains of Ras Baalbek lie in an un-delineated area of the common border between Lebanon and Syria.The high and barren mountains of Ras Baalbek lie in an un-delineated area of the common border between Lebanon and Syria.
10.18am: Bahrain: The government news agency seems excited about an article in today's edition of the Gulf Daily News ("The voice of Bahrain"). Written by the paper's editor-in-chief, Anwar Abdulrahman, it's a virulent attack on the UN Human Rights Council which has been reviewing Bahrain's human rights performance. Abdulrahman writes:10.18am: Bahrain: The government news agency seems excited about an article in today's edition of the Gulf Daily News ("The voice of Bahrain"). Written by the paper's editor-in-chief, Anwar Abdulrahman, it's a virulent attack on the UN Human Rights Council which has been reviewing Bahrain's human rights performance. Abdulrahman writes:
The situation has become so grave that if the UN wants to maintain its impartiality and trustworthiness, it should form a team to filter truth from lies, facts from fiction, and propaganda from reality ...The situation has become so grave that if the UN wants to maintain its impartiality and trustworthiness, it should form a team to filter truth from lies, facts from fiction, and propaganda from reality ...
Many terrorist organisations today operate under the guise of human rights organisations, but as Bahrain's Minister of Interior said: "The law is the guarantor of human rights, but we should bear in mind that human rights organisations are not above the law."Many terrorist organisations today operate under the guise of human rights organisations, but as Bahrain's Minister of Interior said: "The law is the guarantor of human rights, but we should bear in mind that human rights organisations are not above the law."
To make our point very clear, the UN should have checks and balances in place to ensure that it knows the background of any individual participating in such conferences or sessions. This is surely not difficult to arrange?To make our point very clear, the UN should have checks and balances in place to ensure that it knows the background of any individual participating in such conferences or sessions. This is surely not difficult to arrange?
10.05am: Syria/Lebanon: A Lebanese man was shot dead this morning, and three others were injured when Syrian troops opened fire in eastern Lebanon, al-Jazeera reports via AFP.10.05am: Syria/Lebanon: A Lebanese man was shot dead this morning, and three others were injured when Syrian troops opened fire in eastern Lebanon, al-Jazeera reports via AFP.
9.56am: Bahrain: The Bahrain Centre for Human rights has issued a statement explaining the decision by activist Abdulhadi al-Khawaja to abandon his hunger strike:9.56am: Bahrain: The Bahrain Centre for Human rights has issued a statement explaining the decision by activist Abdulhadi al-Khawaja to abandon his hunger strike:
Taking into account the policy of the Bahraini authorities in force-feeding him which was imposed since 23 April, a blatant violation and torture according to international regulations, and in response to countless requests from those in solidarity with him, and his inmates in the detention centre, al-Khawaja announced today that he will put an end to his hunger strike.Taking into account the policy of the Bahraini authorities in force-feeding him which was imposed since 23 April, a blatant violation and torture according to international regulations, and in response to countless requests from those in solidarity with him, and his inmates in the detention centre, al-Khawaja announced today that he will put an end to his hunger strike.
Al-Khawaja will comply with a medical programme set for him by doctors to return to a normal diet. He informed his family of his appreciation for their support, and his gratitude to those in solidarity with him inside and outside the country.Al-Khawaja will comply with a medical programme set for him by doctors to return to a normal diet. He informed his family of his appreciation for their support, and his gratitude to those in solidarity with him inside and outside the country.
9.40am: Syria: Australia has expelled two Syrian diplomats in response to the Houla massacre, the Associated Press reports.9.40am: Syria: Australia has expelled two Syrian diplomats in response to the Houla massacre, the Associated Press reports.
Charge d'affaires Jawdat Ali, the most senior Syrian diplomat in Australia, and another diplomat from the Syrian embassy were ordered to leave the country within 72 hours, Australian foreign minister Bob Carr told reporters. Carr said he expected other countries to do the same later Tuesday.Charge d'affaires Jawdat Ali, the most senior Syrian diplomat in Australia, and another diplomat from the Syrian embassy were ordered to leave the country within 72 hours, Australian foreign minister Bob Carr told reporters. Carr said he expected other countries to do the same later Tuesday.
"This is the most effective way we've got of sending a message of revulsion of what has happened in Syria," Carr said ..."This is the most effective way we've got of sending a message of revulsion of what has happened in Syria," Carr said ...
In a statement, Carr called the killings a "hideous and brutal crime" and said Australia would not engage with the Syrian government unless it abides by a UN ceasefire plan.In a statement, Carr called the killings a "hideous and brutal crime" and said Australia would not engage with the Syrian government unless it abides by a UN ceasefire plan.
9.20am: Egypt: Here's a video of the fire at Shafiq's campaign headquarters in Cairo last night.9.20am: Egypt: Here's a video of the fire at Shafiq's campaign headquarters in Cairo last night.
Reports say anti=Shafiq elements ransacked the building, though the fire itself was not very serious.Reports say anti=Shafiq elements ransacked the building, though the fire itself was not very serious.
Details of the attack are stil somewhat confused. Al-Jazeera quotes an unidentified member of Shafiq's campaign team as saying: "We were inside when they attacked us,. They set fire to the garage that had general Shafiq's campaign literature."Details of the attack are stil somewhat confused. Al-Jazeera quotes an unidentified member of Shafiq's campaign team as saying: "We were inside when they attacked us,. They set fire to the garage that had general Shafiq's campaign literature."
The BBC says:The BBC says:
The attackers also took a number of campaign posters and allegedly took a number of computers from the building, the BBC's Jon Leyne reports from the headquarters.The attackers also took a number of campaign posters and allegedly took a number of computers from the building, the BBC's Jon Leyne reports from the headquarters.
Anti-Shafiq protesters then dispersed and a number of Mr Shafiq's supporters then arrived at the scene, furious at the attack, our correspondent adds.Anti-Shafiq protesters then dispersed and a number of Mr Shafiq's supporters then arrived at the scene, furious at the attack, our correspondent adds.
No-one knows who carried out the attack. Mr Shafiq is the candidate of law and order, so perversely, the more trouble there is, the more he could benefit, he adds.No-one knows who carried out the attack. Mr Shafiq is the candidate of law and order, so perversely, the more trouble there is, the more he could benefit, he adds.
The Associated Press says Shafiq's campaign has blamed supporters of leftist candidate Hamdeen Sabahi, who came in third in the presidential election, and backers of another losing candidate, Khaled Ali, who was protesting against the election results on Monday evening in Tahrir Square.The Associated Press says Shafiq's campaign has blamed supporters of leftist candidate Hamdeen Sabahi, who came in third in the presidential election, and backers of another losing candidate, Khaled Ali, who was protesting against the election results on Monday evening in Tahrir Square.
Shortly after the protesters ransacked the campaign office, fire trucks and police arrived as several hundred of Shafiq's supporters gathered outside the building, carrying his picture and chanting slogans against the Muslim Brotherhood, which controls the parliament and is now seeking the presidency. "The Brotherhood are enemies of God!," chanted the crowd.Shortly after the protesters ransacked the campaign office, fire trucks and police arrived as several hundred of Shafiq's supporters gathered outside the building, carrying his picture and chanting slogans against the Muslim Brotherhood, which controls the parliament and is now seeking the presidency. "The Brotherhood are enemies of God!," chanted the crowd.
9.01am: (all times BST) Welcome to Middle East Live. Today we shall be monitoring developments related to Syria in the wake of the Houla massacre, and especially the Annan-Assad meeting in Damascus. We shall also be keeping an eye on renewed disturbances in Egypt following the presidential election. Here's a roundup of the latest news:9.01am: (all times BST) Welcome to Middle East Live. Today we shall be monitoring developments related to Syria in the wake of the Houla massacre, and especially the Annan-Assad meeting in Damascus. We shall also be keeping an eye on renewed disturbances in Egypt following the presidential election. Here's a roundup of the latest news:
SyriaSyria
• Former UN secretary-general Kofi Annan is due to meet President Assad in Damascus today. Yesterday, Annan called on the Syrian government to "take bold steps to signal that it is serious in its intention to resolve this crisis peacefully".• Former UN secretary-general Kofi Annan is due to meet President Assad in Damascus today. Yesterday, Annan called on the Syrian government to "take bold steps to signal that it is serious in its intention to resolve this crisis peacefully".
• A senior commander in Iran's Revolutionary Guards has said Iranian forces are operating in Syria in support of Bashar al-Assad's regime.• A senior commander in Iran's Revolutionary Guards has said Iranian forces are operating in Syria in support of Bashar al-Assad's regime.
• An 11-year old boy has described how he smeared himself in the blood of his slain brother and played dead as loyalist gunmen burst into his home and killed six members of his family during the start of the massacre in Houla.• An 11-year old boy has described how he smeared himself in the blood of his slain brother and played dead as loyalist gunmen burst into his home and killed six members of his family during the start of the massacre in Houla.
EgyptEgypt
• Protesters returned to the streets in Cairo, Alexandria and Suez last night following the official announcement of a presidential election run-off between former prime minister Ahmed Shafiq and Muslim Brotherhood candidate Mohammed Morsi.• Protesters returned to the streets in Cairo, Alexandria and Suez last night following the official announcement of a presidential election run-off between former prime minister Ahmed Shafiq and Muslim Brotherhood candidate Mohammed Morsi.
• In Cairo, a mob set fire to a building connected with Shafiq's campaign headquarters. Al-Jazeera says the blaze was quickly extinguished and eight people were arrested. • In Cairo, a mob set fire to a building connected with Shafiq's campaign headquarters. Al-Jazeera says the blaze was quickly extinguished and eight people were arrested.
LibyaLibya
• Oil company Royal Dutch Shell says it "intends to suspend and abandon drilled wells and stop exploration in (its) Libyan licences". A spokesman quoted by Dow Jones Newswires says "further exploration cannot be economically justified". Citing "people familiar with the matter", Dow Jones says insecurity in Libya was a factor in the decision.• Oil company Royal Dutch Shell says it "intends to suspend and abandon drilled wells and stop exploration in (its) Libyan licences". A spokesman quoted by Dow Jones Newswires says "further exploration cannot be economically justified". Citing "people familiar with the matter", Dow Jones says insecurity in Libya was a factor in the decision.