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Syria crisis: UNHRC emergency meeting - live updates Syria crisis: UNHRC emergency meeting - live updates
(40 minutes later)
2.20pm: The Russian representative has just spoken at the UN Human Rights Council. He reiterated Russia's view that "a settlement of the Syrian crisis can only be carried out through diplomatic channels".
He added: "We oppose the use of the counil for a scenario based on force and foreign intervention".
2.13pm: A different form of protest in Syria ...
This video, posted yesterday, is said to show university students in Binnish (Idlib province) performing street theatre as a tribute to those who died in the Houla massacre.
1.56pm: The UN Human Rights Coucil has resumed its special session on Syria following a break for lunch. A webcast of the session is here, and documents relating to the session can be found here.1.56pm: The UN Human Rights Coucil has resumed its special session on Syria following a break for lunch. A webcast of the session is here, and documents relating to the session can be found here.
1.48pm: The International Committee of the Red Cross has issued a new statement about its relief work in the area around Houla. It also says it is "extremely concerned" about the humanitarian situation in other parts of Syria.1.48pm: The International Committee of the Red Cross has issued a new statement about its relief work in the area around Houla. It also says it is "extremely concerned" about the humanitarian situation in other parts of Syria.
Al-Houla plain is an area inside Homs governorate in which several villages are clustered together. One of the villages is Taldaw, where many civilians were killed on the night of 25-26 May. Fearing for their lives, thousands fled the village while the fighting raged and took refuge in Burj al-Qa'i, a village some five kilometres east of Taldaw, and in other nearby villages.Al-Houla plain is an area inside Homs governorate in which several villages are clustered together. One of the villages is Taldaw, where many civilians were killed on the night of 25-26 May. Fearing for their lives, thousands fled the village while the fighting raged and took refuge in Burj al-Qa'i, a village some five kilometres east of Taldaw, and in other nearby villages.
"People left everything behind as they ran for their lives," said Marianne Gasser, the head of the ICRC delegation in Syria. "Most of the displaced are women and children.""People left everything behind as they ran for their lives," said Marianne Gasser, the head of the ICRC delegation in Syria. "Most of the displaced are women and children."
Burj al-Qa'i is a village in al-Houla plain with barely 1,000 residents. Overnight, it found itself hosting 5,000 people who had fled Taldaw in search of safety. "Many of those who took refuge in Burj al-Qa'i ended up in schools and other public buildings, others with host families," said Ms Gasser. "There was not enough food, water and medicine for everyone, which put a great deal of pressure on the small village."Burj al-Qa'i is a village in al-Houla plain with barely 1,000 residents. Overnight, it found itself hosting 5,000 people who had fled Taldaw in search of safety. "Many of those who took refuge in Burj al-Qa'i ended up in schools and other public buildings, others with host families," said Ms Gasser. "There was not enough food, water and medicine for everyone, which put a great deal of pressure on the small village."
Both the ICRC and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent went to al-Houla plain this week. They provided food, water, mattresses, baby milk, medicines and other items for the displaced in Burj al-Qa'i. In addition, they installed and filled water tanks in schools and other places where displaced people are taking shelter. Some of the people who did not manage to go to Burj al-Qa'i or elsewhere stayed behind because they were injured. A team of Syrian Arab Red Crescent volunteers and six doctors headed to Taldaw immediately after the events, treated dozens of people on the spot and transferred several to a hospital in Homs city.Both the ICRC and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent went to al-Houla plain this week. They provided food, water, mattresses, baby milk, medicines and other items for the displaced in Burj al-Qa'i. In addition, they installed and filled water tanks in schools and other places where displaced people are taking shelter. Some of the people who did not manage to go to Burj al-Qa'i or elsewhere stayed behind because they were injured. A team of Syrian Arab Red Crescent volunteers and six doctors headed to Taldaw immediately after the events, treated dozens of people on the spot and transferred several to a hospital in Homs city.
"What happened in al-Houla is tragic. The ICRC is shocked by the high number of casualties," said Ms Gasser. "When fighting erupts, parties must distinguish at all times between civilians and those directly participating in the hostilities. Civilians must be spared as far as possible the effects of the fighting.""What happened in al-Houla is tragic. The ICRC is shocked by the high number of casualties," said Ms Gasser. "When fighting erupts, parties must distinguish at all times between civilians and those directly participating in the hostilities. Civilians must be spared as far as possible the effects of the fighting."
The ICRC remains extremely concerned about the humanitarian situation in other parts of Syria. This week in Hama governorate, the Syrian Arab Red Crescent treated dozens of people injured in the violence ...The ICRC remains extremely concerned about the humanitarian situation in other parts of Syria. This week in Hama governorate, the Syrian Arab Red Crescent treated dozens of people injured in the violence ...
The ICRC is calling upon the parties to ensure that civilians are allowed to move to safer areas should they fear for their safety, and that the injured have access to any medical care they may need without delay. It is also calling on all parties involved in the violence to continue to facilitate its safe and unimpeded access to affected areas.The ICRC is calling upon the parties to ensure that civilians are allowed to move to safer areas should they fear for their safety, and that the injured have access to any medical care they may need without delay. It is also calling on all parties involved in the violence to continue to facilitate its safe and unimpeded access to affected areas.
1.42pm: Protesters were awaiting Russian president Vladimir Putin when he arrived for talks with German chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin. Russia's attitude towards Syria is expected to be high on Merkel's agenda.1.42pm: Protesters were awaiting Russian president Vladimir Putin when he arrived for talks with German chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin. Russia's attitude towards Syria is expected to be high on Merkel's agenda.
1.25pm: The video above is said to show demonstrators marching in Aleppo today. 1.25pm: Large demonstrations are reported in Aleppo in today.
This video purports to a show a protest in the Saleheddin area of the city.
1.13pm: Here's the full text of Pillay's statement to the UNHRC.1.13pm: Here's the full text of Pillay's statement to the UNHRC.
This is what she said on the Houla massacre.This is what she said on the Houla massacre.
I am appalled by the atrocities committed in Houla. Preliminary investigations indicate that the attacks possibly directed at the civilian population have resulted in the killings of 108 people, including 49 children, and 34 women.I am appalled by the atrocities committed in Houla. Preliminary investigations indicate that the attacks possibly directed at the civilian population have resulted in the killings of 108 people, including 49 children, and 34 women.
According to preliminary reports, on Friday, 25 May at 12:30 p.m, shortly after a demonstration had taken place, the Syrian military allegedly unleashed a barrage of heavy weapons on the Houla area, including artillery and tank fire, which continued until 2:00 a.m. on Saturday, 26 May. Some reports suggest that pro-government shabiha paramilitary groups also entered the villages and may bear responsibility for dozens of killings. These acts may amount to crimes against humanity and other international crimes, and may be indicative of a pattern of widespread or systematic attacks against civilian populations that have been perpetrated with impunity.According to preliminary reports, on Friday, 25 May at 12:30 p.m, shortly after a demonstration had taken place, the Syrian military allegedly unleashed a barrage of heavy weapons on the Houla area, including artillery and tank fire, which continued until 2:00 a.m. on Saturday, 26 May. Some reports suggest that pro-government shabiha paramilitary groups also entered the villages and may bear responsibility for dozens of killings. These acts may amount to crimes against humanity and other international crimes, and may be indicative of a pattern of widespread or systematic attacks against civilian populations that have been perpetrated with impunity.
On 30 May, the permanent mission of the Syrian Arab Republic sent a note verbale to the office of the high commissioner for human rights attributing the killings in Houla to what it called "terrorist armed groups." The government of Syria stated that its military was acting only in self-defence, and that it sought to protect the civilian population. The government said that three members of the armed forces were killed and 16 soldiers were injured as a result of the armed clashes in Houla.On 30 May, the permanent mission of the Syrian Arab Republic sent a note verbale to the office of the high commissioner for human rights attributing the killings in Houla to what it called "terrorist armed groups." The government of Syria stated that its military was acting only in self-defence, and that it sought to protect the civilian population. The government said that three members of the armed forces were killed and 16 soldiers were injured as a result of the armed clashes in Houla.
The government of Syria said that it established an inter-ministerial committee to investigate these events. Nevertheless, there is a need for prompt, independent and impartial international investigations into all serious human rights violations in Syria, including those that have occurred in Houla.The government of Syria said that it established an inter-ministerial committee to investigate these events. Nevertheless, there is a need for prompt, independent and impartial international investigations into all serious human rights violations in Syria, including those that have occurred in Houla.
12.47pm: Here's a round of the latest developments on the Syria crisis. 12.47pm: Here's a roundup of the latest developments on the Syria crisis.
• The UN's human rights chief, Navi Pillay has warned all out civil war in Syria and repeated her request for the security council to refer the Assad regime to the international criminal court. In a statement read out to an emergency session of the UN's human rights council, Pillay said states had a duty to prevent and prosecute perpetrators of international crimes. • The UN's human rights chief, Navi Pillay has warned of all out civil war in Syria and repeated her request for the security council to refer the Assad regime to the international criminal court. In a statement read out to an emergency session of the UN's human rights council, Pillay said states had a duty to prevent and prosecute perpetrators of international crimes.
• A draft version of a resolution to be put to the council "condemns in the strongest possible terms such an outrageous use of force against the civilian population which constitutes a violation of applicable international law". The draft resolution drawn up by the United States, Qatar and Turkey, also calls for an investigation by the UN.• A draft version of a resolution to be put to the council "condemns in the strongest possible terms such an outrageous use of force against the civilian population which constitutes a violation of applicable international law". The draft resolution drawn up by the United States, Qatar and Turkey, also calls for an investigation by the UN.
• Syria dismissed the resolution as "full of hate" and said it had been put forward by countries intent on igniting civil war in Syria. Fayssal al-Hamwi, Syria's ambassador to the UN in Geneva said: "Those countries who instigated this session have the common objectives of causing more bloodshed amongst the Syrian people and trying to ignite a civil war."• Syria dismissed the resolution as "full of hate" and said it had been put forward by countries intent on igniting civil war in Syria. Fayssal al-Hamwi, Syria's ambassador to the UN in Geneva said: "Those countries who instigated this session have the common objectives of causing more bloodshed amongst the Syrian people and trying to ignite a civil war."
• Activists claim up to 13 factory workers were killed by militia loyal to president Assad in a village near the western town of al-Qusair. A further 12 were killed in shelling on the town itself. Protests have taken place across Syria, including at the funeral of some of those killed in and around al-Qusair.• Activists claim up to 13 factory workers were killed by militia loyal to president Assad in a village near the western town of al-Qusair. A further 12 were killed in shelling on the town itself. Protests have taken place across Syria, including at the funeral of some of those killed in and around al-Qusair.
• Britain's foreign secretary, William Hague, said the situation in Syria is "now so grave, so serious and so rapidly deteriorating" that no option for future international action can be ruled out. He is due to hold talks with opposition groups in Turkey later today.• Britain's foreign secretary, William Hague, said the situation in Syria is "now so grave, so serious and so rapidly deteriorating" that no option for future international action can be ruled out. He is due to hold talks with opposition groups in Turkey later today.
12.34pm: In the statement read out of behalf of UN human rights chief Navi Pillay, she also repeated her call for the security council to refer Syria to the international criminal court. 12.34pm: In the statement read out on behalf of UN human rights chief Navi Pillay, she also repeated her call for the security council to refer Syria to the international criminal court.
The BBC has a clip of the statement being read out.The BBC has a clip of the statement being read out.
Pillay's statement said a UN commission had reported gross violations continuing unabated in Syria, "in an increasingly militarised context, despite the ceasefire announced on 12 April."Pillay's statement said a UN commission had reported gross violations continuing unabated in Syria, "in an increasingly militarised context, despite the ceasefire announced on 12 April."
It added: "In addition on 30 May UNSMIS reported the discovery of 13 bodies in Deir Ezzor with their hands tied behind their backs. Some appear to have been shot at close range."It added: "In addition on 30 May UNSMIS reported the discovery of 13 bodies in Deir Ezzor with their hands tied behind their backs. Some appear to have been shot at close range."
The statement said:The statement said:
I take this opportunity to call again on the government of Syria to assume its responsibility to protect the civilian population. I reiterate that those who order, assist, or fail to stop attacks on civilians are individually criminally liable for their actions. Other states have duty to do all they can to prevent and prosecute perpetrators of international crimes. Once again I urge the security council to consider referring the case of Syria to the international criminal court.I take this opportunity to call again on the government of Syria to assume its responsibility to protect the civilian population. I reiterate that those who order, assist, or fail to stop attacks on civilians are individually criminally liable for their actions. Other states have duty to do all they can to prevent and prosecute perpetrators of international crimes. Once again I urge the security council to consider referring the case of Syria to the international criminal court.
12.21pm: While the UNHRC breaks for lunch AP has more on what was said in the morning session.12.21pm: While the UNHRC breaks for lunch AP has more on what was said in the morning session.
The UN's top human rights official warned Friday that all-out civil war could engulf Syria unless countries back international envoy Kofi Annan's peace plan and calls for an independent probe into the killing of more than 100 civilians last week in the Arab country.The UN's top human rights official warned Friday that all-out civil war could engulf Syria unless countries back international envoy Kofi Annan's peace plan and calls for an independent probe into the killing of more than 100 civilians last week in the Arab country.
As countries lined up at an emergency meeting of the UN human rights Council to express their horror about the Houla massacre, in which the global body said 49 children were among the dead, the UN high commissioner for Human Rights appealed for support for the six-point plan to halt the violence in Syria.As countries lined up at an emergency meeting of the UN human rights Council to express their horror about the Houla massacre, in which the global body said 49 children were among the dead, the UN high commissioner for Human Rights appealed for support for the six-point plan to halt the violence in Syria.
"Otherwise, the situation in Syria might descend into a full-fledged conflict and the future of the country, as well as the region as a whole could be in grave danger," Navi Pillay told the 47-nation council in a speech read out on her behalf."Otherwise, the situation in Syria might descend into a full-fledged conflict and the future of the country, as well as the region as a whole could be in grave danger," Navi Pillay told the 47-nation council in a speech read out on her behalf.
It was the fourth time that the Geneva-based council called an urgent meeting on Syria, something the country's ambassador to the UN in Geneva, Fayssal al-Hamwi, said was a sign that some countries are trying to divide his country.It was the fourth time that the Geneva-based council called an urgent meeting on Syria, something the country's ambassador to the UN in Geneva, Fayssal al-Hamwi, said was a sign that some countries are trying to divide his country.
Al-Hamwi, too, condemned the massacre in Houla but blamed it on "groups of armed terrorists" seeking to ignite sectarian strife.Al-Hamwi, too, condemned the massacre in Houla but blamed it on "groups of armed terrorists" seeking to ignite sectarian strife.
U.S. Ambassador Eileen Chamberlain Donahoe said there was no doubt that the regime of President Bashar Assad was responsible for the killing.
"There needs to be justice and accountability for those that committed these atrocities," she told the council.		U.S. Ambassador Eileen Chamberlain Donahoe said there was no doubt that the regime of President Bashar Assad was responsible for the killing.
"There needs to be justice and accountability for those that committed these atrocities," she told the council.
A draft resolution proposed by Qatar, Turkey and the United States condemns the killings in Houla and states that "those responsible for serious violations of human rights must be held accountable," but doesn't suggest how.A draft resolution proposed by Qatar, Turkey and the United States condemns the killings in Houla and states that "those responsible for serious violations of human rights must be held accountable," but doesn't suggest how.
European diplomats want the resolution to include a call for the UN Security Council in New York to consider referring the massacre to the international criminal court. This is something the rights council cannot do on its own.European diplomats want the resolution to include a call for the UN Security Council in New York to consider referring the massacre to the international criminal court. This is something the rights council cannot do on its own.
And since Syria isn't a member of the ICC, under international law only the Security Council can refer it to the Hague-based tribunal.And since Syria isn't a member of the ICC, under international law only the Security Council can refer it to the Hague-based tribunal.
12.04pm: Protests have taken place at the funeral of some of those killed in the latest massacres in and around al-Qusair, according to footage from activists.12.04pm: Protests have taken place at the funeral of some of those killed in the latest massacres in and around al-Qusair, according to footage from activists.
At one point in the clip a man holds a sheet of paper listing those killed.At one point in the clip a man holds a sheet of paper listing those killed.
It is unclear whether the victims were those, who activists claim, were killed in shelling in al-Qusair or a shooting by shabiha in the nearby village of al-Buweyda (see 8.56am).It is unclear whether the victims were those, who activists claim, were killed in shelling in al-Qusair or a shooting by shabiha in the nearby village of al-Buweyda (see 8.56am).
Accounts vary on the number of victims of the reported shooting. AP says 11 were killed, the BBC reports 13 victims.Accounts vary on the number of victims of the reported shooting. AP says 11 were killed, the BBC reports 13 victims.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says 12 victims were discovered.The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says 12 victims were discovered.
11.57am: The request for today's UNHRC session on Syria came from Qatar, Turkey, United States, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Denmark and the European Union, the council has confirmed.11.57am: The request for today's UNHRC session on Syria came from Qatar, Turkey, United States, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Denmark and the European Union, the council has confirmed.
The request was signed by the following members of the Council: Austria, Belgium, Chile, Czech Republic, Guatemala, Hungary, Italy, Kuwait, Maldives, Mexico, Norway, Peru, Poland, Qatar, Republic of Moldova, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Switzerland, United States and Uruguay.The request was signed by the following members of the Council: Austria, Belgium, Chile, Czech Republic, Guatemala, Hungary, Italy, Kuwait, Maldives, Mexico, Norway, Peru, Poland, Qatar, Republic of Moldova, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Switzerland, United States and Uruguay.
The request was also supported by the following observer States: Australia, Bahrain, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.The request was also supported by the following observer States: Australia, Bahrain, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.
11.53am: Here are further direct quotes from Syria's representative to human rights council, Fayssal al-Hamwi, who claimed armed terrorists carried out last week's Houla massacre.11.53am: Here are further direct quotes from Syria's representative to human rights council, Fayssal al-Hamwi, who claimed armed terrorists carried out last week's Houla massacre.
Speaking through a translator, Hamwi said:Speaking through a translator, Hamwi said:
The main motive for those murderers was to ignite sectarian strife, in an area made up of multi-sectarian social fabric, which until now has lived in peace.The main motive for those murderers was to ignite sectarian strife, in an area made up of multi-sectarian social fabric, which until now has lived in peace.
The initial investigation found that some of those who had been arrested were not Syrian nationals. The intent of those attackers was to create an area outside the authority of the state, close to the Lebanese border.The initial investigation found that some of those who had been arrested were not Syrian nationals. The intent of those attackers was to create an area outside the authority of the state, close to the Lebanese border.
It is now something familiar for the armed terrorist groups and gangs to carry out those massacres at specified times, so that the crimes take place immediately before the convening of the UN security council, or a visit by the UN-Arab League special envoy, Kofi Annan. The purpose of these massacres is to bring about special sessions against Syria, and statements of condemnations full of hate, like the one we see before us today.It is now something familiar for the armed terrorist groups and gangs to carry out those massacres at specified times, so that the crimes take place immediately before the convening of the UN security council, or a visit by the UN-Arab League special envoy, Kofi Annan. The purpose of these massacres is to bring about special sessions against Syria, and statements of condemnations full of hate, like the one we see before us today.
Such resolutions and decisions support the murderers, and have paragraphs full of blind hatred. Syria rejects these totally.Such resolutions and decisions support the murderers, and have paragraphs full of blind hatred. Syria rejects these totally.
It is truly despicable of states sponsoring this session to support armed terrorists groups in Syria and supply them with modern weaponry - most Israeli-made.It is truly despicable of states sponsoring this session to support armed terrorists groups in Syria and supply them with modern weaponry - most Israeli-made.
Since the beginning of the crisis in Syria, the United States has not hidden its support for the armed opposition. It is guiding the opposition not to surrender arms and not to enter dialogue with the government.Since the beginning of the crisis in Syria, the United States has not hidden its support for the armed opposition. It is guiding the opposition not to surrender arms and not to enter dialogue with the government.
Those countries who instigated this session have the common objectives of causing more bloodshed amongst the Syrian people and trying to ignite a civil war.Those countries who instigated this session have the common objectives of causing more bloodshed amongst the Syrian people and trying to ignite a civil war.
11.37am: The Kuwaiti representative to the UNHRC said "failure of [Kofi Annan's] plan could lead to disastrous consequences for Syria and the region". He called for "an effective and peaceful solution" that attains the legitimate demands of the Syrian people.11.37am: The Kuwaiti representative to the UNHRC said "failure of [Kofi Annan's] plan could lead to disastrous consequences for Syria and the region". He called for "an effective and peaceful solution" that attains the legitimate demands of the Syrian people.
The US representative, Eileen Donahue, said the facts of the Houla massacre are clear: summary executions at close range of people in their own homes, including children. This was preceded by attacks from tanks and artillery which only the Syrian government possesses.The US representative, Eileen Donahue, said the facts of the Houla massacre are clear: summary executions at close range of people in their own homes, including children. This was preceded by attacks from tanks and artillery which only the Syrian government possesses.
President Assad's "brutal rule by murder and fear will ultimately come to an end," she added.President Assad's "brutal rule by murder and fear will ultimately come to an end," she added.
11.20am: The representative of Venezuela (which is sympathetic towards the Syrian regime) called for a far-reaching inquiry, but added that it "should not be used as a pretext for foreign intervention".11.20am: The representative of Venezuela (which is sympathetic towards the Syrian regime) called for a far-reaching inquiry, but added that it "should not be used as a pretext for foreign intervention".
He said he welcomed the reforms in Syria giving people the right to peacefully demonstration. But he said the current draft resolution before the council reflects a desire to interfere in Syria's internal affairs.He said he welcomed the reforms in Syria giving people the right to peacefully demonstration. But he said the current draft resolution before the council reflects a desire to interfere in Syria's internal affairs.
11.16am: The Danish representative to the UNHRC, Maria Ulff Moeller, speaking on behalf of the EU, called on the Syrian government to "comply with the legitimate demands" of the human rights council.11.16am: The Danish representative to the UNHRC, Maria Ulff Moeller, speaking on behalf of the EU, called on the Syrian government to "comply with the legitimate demands" of the human rights council.
All violence must be brought to an end immediately, she said. The Syrian government must protect its population and there must be no impunity for the perpetrators.All violence must be brought to an end immediately, she said. The Syrian government must protect its population and there must be no impunity for the perpetrators.
She also spoke of a possible referral to international criminal court by the UN security council. A speaker on behalf of the Nordic countries echoed her calls.She also spoke of a possible referral to international criminal court by the UN security council. A speaker on behalf of the Nordic countries echoed her calls.
11.07am: Fayssal al-Hamwi, the Syrian representative at the UNHRC, said groups of armed terrorists numbering 600-800 attacked al-Houla. The Syrian government announced a committee of inquiry to find out what the truth was, he said.11.07am: Fayssal al-Hamwi, the Syrian representative at the UNHRC, said groups of armed terrorists numbering 600-800 attacked al-Houla. The Syrian government announced a committee of inquiry to find out what the truth was, he said.
The committee's initial report found the main motive of the murderers was to ignite sectarian strife, Hamwi told the council.The committee's initial report found the main motive of the murderers was to ignite sectarian strife, Hamwi told the council.
The committee also concluded there were no traces of artillery shelling on the bodies of the victims. The committee affirmed that the killings had occurred at close range, he said.The committee also concluded there were no traces of artillery shelling on the bodies of the victims. The committee affirmed that the killings had occurred at close range, he said.
Some non-Syrian nationals have been arrested, Hamoui claimed. The timing and purposes of such massacre are aimed at prompting special sessions of the UN, he added.Some non-Syrian nationals have been arrested, Hamoui claimed. The timing and purposes of such massacre are aimed at prompting special sessions of the UN, he added.
"No rational person could believe what is being said by some of the sponsors of this session ... it is truly despicable," he said."No rational person could believe what is being said by some of the sponsors of this session ... it is truly despicable," he said.
The Syrian representative went on say that the sponsors of the UN session were also sponsoring violence in Syria. He also said the armed fighters were being provided with Israeli-made weapons.The Syrian representative went on say that the sponsors of the UN session were also sponsoring violence in Syria. He also said the armed fighters were being provided with Israeli-made weapons.
"Those who truly wish to assist Syria, should stop the cheap media war launched against us, and stop offering weapons and financial support to the murderers who engage in suicide attacks," Hamwi said."Those who truly wish to assist Syria, should stop the cheap media war launched against us, and stop offering weapons and financial support to the murderers who engage in suicide attacks," Hamwi said.
After Hamwi remarks, a representative from Denmark spoke on behalf of the EU.After Hamwi remarks, a representative from Denmark spoke on behalf of the EU.
10.51am: Syrian activists have dismissed the UNHRC meeting as an irrelevance.10.51am: Syrian activists have dismissed the UNHRC meeting as an irrelevance.
British-based Syrian blogger Maysaloon comments:British-based Syrian blogger Maysaloon comments:
UNHR is meeting about #Syria for the fourth time. Assad and his regime are pissing on the world's face and then telling us it's raining.UNHR is meeting about #Syria for the fourth time. Assad and his regime are pissing on the world's face and then telling us it's raining.
— Maysaloon (@Maysaloon) June 1, 2012— Maysaloon (@Maysaloon) June 1, 2012
US based Syrian NMSyria tweets:US based Syrian NMSyria tweets:
UNHR meeting now to discuss the #HoulaMassacre. If you have a strong stomach and a lot of time to waste, tune in to the freak show..#SyriaUNHR meeting now to discuss the #HoulaMassacre. If you have a strong stomach and a lot of time to waste, tune in to the freak show..#Syria
— NMSyria (@NMSyria) June 1, 2012— NMSyria (@NMSyria) June 1, 2012
10.46am: Speeches by member countries of the UNHRC will be limited to three minutes, those from observers to two minutes.10.46am: Speeches by member countries of the UNHRC will be limited to three minutes, those from observers to two minutes.
The first speaker is UNHRC representative, speaking on behalf of UN human rights chief Navi Pillay. She calls for an immediate end to all forms of violence and human rights violations by all parties.The first speaker is UNHRC representative, speaking on behalf of UN human rights chief Navi Pillay. She calls for an immediate end to all forms of violence and human rights violations by all parties.
After outlining the allegations relating to the Houla massacre, the speaker calls for independent and international investigations, and end to impunity and accountability for perpetrators.After outlining the allegations relating to the Houla massacre, the speaker calls for independent and international investigations, and end to impunity and accountability for perpetrators.
She says that despite repeated requests, the commission has still not been granted access to Syria.She says that despite repeated requests, the commission has still not been granted access to Syria.
10.33am: The UN's human rights council emergency session on the Syrian crisis and last week's massacre in Houla has begun in Geneva.10.33am: The UN's human rights council emergency session on the Syrian crisis and last week's massacre in Houla has begun in Geneva.
You can follow a live feed of the session here (click channel 11).You can follow a live feed of the session here (click channel 11).
The council will debate the issue then vote on a draft resolution tabled by Qatar, Turkey and the US.The council will debate the issue then vote on a draft resolution tabled by Qatar, Turkey and the US.

The UN says a representative of the Syria government is due to address the council.

The UN says a representative of the Syria government is due to address the council.

A representative of the Syrian Government will also address the @UN_HRC, speaking as the concerned country. #SpecialSession #SyriaA representative of the Syrian Government will also address the @UN_HRC, speaking as the concerned country. #SpecialSession #Syria
— UN Geneva (@unisgeneva) June 1, 2012— UN Geneva (@unisgeneva) June 1, 2012
10.29am: Children in Houla, scene of last week's massacre, have held a protest against the Assad regime on rooftop in town, according to footage from activists.10.29am: Children in Houla, scene of last week's massacre, have held a protest against the Assad regime on rooftop in town, according to footage from activists.
Now Lebanon warns that activists claimed there would be "a volcano of rage" in Friday protests today, following last Friday's killings.Now Lebanon warns that activists claimed there would be "a volcano of rage" in Friday protests today, following last Friday's killings.
10.14am: The BBC has more on the killing of factory workers in a village near al-Qusair (see 8.56am).10.14am: The BBC has more on the killing of factory workers in a village near al-Qusair (see 8.56am).
It says 13 factory workers were executed by shabiha gangs, citing activists.It says 13 factory workers were executed by shabiha gangs, citing activists.
9.59am: Russian president Vladimir Putin is expected to face pressure for a change of policy over Syria today when he visits Berlin and Paris, the Associated Press reports.9.59am: Russian president Vladimir Putin is expected to face pressure for a change of policy over Syria today when he visits Berlin and Paris, the Associated Press reports.
Putin's meetings with German chancellor Angela Merkel and later with new French president Francois Hollande are part of his first foreign trip since returning to the Russian presidency. AP continues:Putin's meetings with German chancellor Angela Merkel and later with new French president Francois Hollande are part of his first foreign trip since returning to the Russian presidency. AP continues:
Merkel's spokesman, Steffen Seibert, said this week the chancellor would try to persuade the Russians "to ensure, like us, that the right decisions regarding the Assad regime are made at the UN".Merkel's spokesman, Steffen Seibert, said this week the chancellor would try to persuade the Russians "to ensure, like us, that the right decisions regarding the Assad regime are made at the UN".
Merkel herself declined to spell out her expectations on Thursday. While she conceded differences with Russia, she said that "we also have a certain amount of common ground when it comes to securing human rights and bringing these terrible human rights violations to an end."Merkel herself declined to spell out her expectations on Thursday. While she conceded differences with Russia, she said that "we also have a certain amount of common ground when it comes to securing human rights and bringing these terrible human rights violations to an end."
"What Mr. Assad is doing there can in no way be reconciled with what human rights demand of us," she said. "What is happening in Syria is a catastrophe and we will do everything to ease people's suffering" ..."What Mr. Assad is doing there can in no way be reconciled with what human rights demand of us," she said. "What is happening in Syria is a catastrophe and we will do everything to ease people's suffering" ...
On Wednesday, Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, was quoted as saying by the ITAR-Tass news agency that "there can be no talk" about a shift in Russia's stance on Syria under foreign pressure. He said Russia's course has been "consistent and well-balanced."On Wednesday, Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, was quoted as saying by the ITAR-Tass news agency that "there can be no talk" about a shift in Russia's stance on Syria under foreign pressure. He said Russia's course has been "consistent and well-balanced."
9.35am: Britain's foreign secretary, William Hague, said the situation in Syria is "now so grave, so serious and so rapidly deteriorating" that no option for future international action can be ruled out.9.35am: Britain's foreign secretary, William Hague, said the situation in Syria is "now so grave, so serious and so rapidly deteriorating" that no option for future international action can be ruled out.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme as he prepared to hold talks with opposition groups in Turkey, Hague said Britain was not yet ready to supply arms to the Syrian opposition groups or to consider the possibility of military intervention in order to create safe zones within the country for refugees.Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme as he prepared to hold talks with opposition groups in Turkey, Hague said Britain was not yet ready to supply arms to the Syrian opposition groups or to consider the possibility of military intervention in order to create safe zones within the country for refugees.
But he said that, if the Annan plan failed, Syria could face "collapse" and "we would have to look at all options".But he said that, if the Annan plan failed, Syria could face "collapse" and "we would have to look at all options".
Hague said: "We would do that with our allies, bearing in mind, of course, what can be secured at the UN security council and what is practical and effective. So we're not ruling anything out, but a military intervention in Syria, as I've always pointed out, would have to be vastly greater scale than was the case in Libya and it would have to enjoy very broad international support. So we're not at that stage at this point now."Hague said: "We would do that with our allies, bearing in mind, of course, what can be secured at the UN security council and what is practical and effective. So we're not ruling anything out, but a military intervention in Syria, as I've always pointed out, would have to be vastly greater scale than was the case in Libya and it would have to enjoy very broad international support. So we're not at that stage at this point now."
9.21am: Damascus university has organised a blood donation campaign to show "appreciation of sacrifices of the Syrian army and law-enforcement forces", the government news agency, Sana reports.9.21am: Damascus university has organised a blood donation campaign to show "appreciation of sacrifices of the Syrian army and law-enforcement forces", the government news agency, Sana reports.
Deputy rector for scientific affairs, Hiyam Bashour, said that the campaign is a humble contribution to appreciate those who offered their souls to protect the homeland.Deputy rector for scientific affairs, Hiyam Bashour, said that the campaign is a humble contribution to appreciate those who offered their souls to protect the homeland.
A worker at the faculty of pharmacy, Wafaa Husaini, said that it is the duty of every Syrian citizen to express gratitude for those who sacrificed themselves to safeguard the country.A worker at the faculty of pharmacy, Wafaa Husaini, said that it is the duty of every Syrian citizen to express gratitude for those who sacrificed themselves to safeguard the country.
Another donator, Ammar Mhrez, stressed that the Syrian blood is united against conspiracies and schemes hatched against Syria.Another donator, Ammar Mhrez, stressed that the Syrian blood is united against conspiracies and schemes hatched against Syria.
8.56am: Another massacre has been committed in Syria according to activists. The Syrian Revolution General Commission claimed 13 men were shot at close range by shabiha militia - or armed supporters of President Assad, in al-Buweyda in Homs.8.56am: Another massacre has been committed in Syria according to activists. The Syrian Revolution General Commission claimed 13 men were shot at close range by shabiha militia - or armed supporters of President Assad, in al-Buweyda in Homs.
In an unverified account of what took place, it said:In an unverified account of what took place, it said:
Around 3pm the regime army searched a bus that was carrying workers from the village fertiliser plant as it passed a checkpoint. As the bus moved on past the checkpoint, around 300m on, a yellow car with 5 armed shabiha stopped the bus and stole what was inside while verbally humiliating the passengers. They then forced everyone off the bus with their hands in the air and they were forced to chant for Bashar Al-Assad. The men were then shot at close-range which led to their death as the regime thugs emptied their bullets and beat the dead bodies.Around 3pm the regime army searched a bus that was carrying workers from the village fertiliser plant as it passed a checkpoint. As the bus moved on past the checkpoint, around 300m on, a yellow car with 5 armed shabiha stopped the bus and stole what was inside while verbally humiliating the passengers. They then forced everyone off the bus with their hands in the air and they were forced to chant for Bashar Al-Assad. The men were then shot at close-range which led to their death as the regime thugs emptied their bullets and beat the dead bodies.
Graphic video footage claimed to show the victims of shootings. [Warning: disturbing content].Graphic video footage claimed to show the victims of shootings. [Warning: disturbing content].
The SRGC also claimed 12 people were killed when the army shelled the nearby town al-Qusair.The SRGC also claimed 12 people were killed when the army shelled the nearby town al-Qusair.
It highlights this footage which purports to show the town being shelled.It highlights this footage which purports to show the town being shelled.
The SRGC said shelling came from the al-Mashtal military checkpoint and has continued this morning after resistance from rebel Free Syrian Army.The SRGC said shelling came from the al-Mashtal military checkpoint and has continued this morning after resistance from rebel Free Syrian Army.
8.37am: (all times BST) Welcome to Middle East Live.8.37am: (all times BST) Welcome to Middle East Live.
Here's a round up of the latest developments:Here's a round up of the latest developments:
SyriaSyria
• The UN human rights council in Geneva is set to call for an inquiry into the Houla massacre at an emergency session on the Syria crisis. A draft version of resolution to be put to the council "condemns in the strongest possible terms such an outrageous use of force against the civilian population which constitutes a violation of applicable international law". It also calls for an investigation by the UN.• The UN human rights council in Geneva is set to call for an inquiry into the Houla massacre at an emergency session on the Syria crisis. A draft version of resolution to be put to the council "condemns in the strongest possible terms such an outrageous use of force against the civilian population which constitutes a violation of applicable international law". It also calls for an investigation by the UN.
• Syria said "preliminary" findings of it own investigation showed the massacre in Houla was the work of 600-800 "armed men". Brigadier-General Qasim Jamal Suleiman, who is leading the inquiry, said the army had not been present in the area when the killings were carried out last Friday. The victims had refused to join anti-regime demonstrations and some bodies were of armed men killed in clashes, he said. None had been killed by shellfire. Susan Rice the US ambassador to the UN dismissed the findings as a "blatant lie".• Syria said "preliminary" findings of it own investigation showed the massacre in Houla was the work of 600-800 "armed men". Brigadier-General Qasim Jamal Suleiman, who is leading the inquiry, said the army had not been present in the area when the killings were carried out last Friday. The victims had refused to join anti-regime demonstrations and some bodies were of armed men killed in clashes, he said. None had been killed by shellfire. Susan Rice the US ambassador to the UN dismissed the findings as a "blatant lie".
#Syria regime says the opposition is responsible for the massacre in #Houla. Another blatant lie.#Syria regime says the opposition is responsible for the massacre in #Houla. Another blatant lie.
— Susan Rice (@AmbassadorRice) May 31, 2012— Susan Rice (@AmbassadorRice) May 31, 2012
• Alex Thomson, from Channel 4 News, who has just returned from Houla, said the conclusions of Syrian government's inquiry "would be laughable were the events that took place in Houla not so revolting, brutal and tragic".• Alex Thomson, from Channel 4 News, who has just returned from Houla, said the conclusions of Syrian government's inquiry "would be laughable were the events that took place in Houla not so revolting, brutal and tragic".
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He said:

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We know, and all sides agree, there was a long artillery barrage, and then we know, and all sides agree, these militia entered a zone which had been subject to heavy shelling. They conducted a massacre and not a single shell landed anywhere near them, not a single mortar, not a single bullet round - fired by the Syrian army. So you have to believe that that was either a fantastically lucky coincidence for the people doing the massacre, or they were acting in co-ordination with the army. I invite our viewers to make their own judgement.

 We know, and all sides agree, there was a long artillery barrage, and then we know, and all sides agree, these militia entered a zone which had been subject to heavy shelling. They conducted a massacre and not a single shell landed anywhere near them, not a single mortar, not a single bullet round - fired by the Syrian army. So you have to believe that that was either a fantastically lucky coincidence for the people doing the massacre, or they were acting in co-ordination with the army. I invite our viewers to make their own judgement.
• A previously unknown Syrian rebel group says it is holding 11 Lebanese Shia pilgrims kidnapped in Syria last week. The group, calling itself Syrian Rebels in Aleppo, said in a statement obtained by al-Jazeera TV that the hostages are in good health.• A previously unknown Syrian rebel group says it is holding 11 Lebanese Shia pilgrims kidnapped in Syria last week. The group, calling itself Syrian Rebels in Aleppo, said in a statement obtained by al-Jazeera TV that the hostages are in good health.
• The US described Moscow's latest arms sale to Syria as "reprehensible" after a Russian cargo ship heavily laden with weapons arrived in Syria last weekend, Reuters reports. Western officials confirmed that the ship arrived on Saturday, bringing to the Syrian port of Tartus a cache of heavy weapons for Syria.• The US described Moscow's latest arms sale to Syria as "reprehensible" after a Russian cargo ship heavily laden with weapons arrived in Syria last weekend, Reuters reports. Western officials confirmed that the ship arrived on Saturday, bringing to the Syrian port of Tartus a cache of heavy weapons for Syria.
• Calls by Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney, to arm the rebels would not make a bad situation worse, according to former state department adviser Heather Hurlburt.• Calls by Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney, to arm the rebels would not make a bad situation worse, according to former state department adviser Heather Hurlburt.
First, the militias have not, in fact, been able to hold their own with Syria's army and security forces anywhere, with foreign guns or without them. Second, observers say that as fighting drags on and atrocities mount, the militias are growing increasingly focused on sectarian violence and local feuds. Arms sent to fight the government may well heighten killing among Syria's ethnic groups.First, the militias have not, in fact, been able to hold their own with Syria's army and security forces anywhere, with foreign guns or without them. Second, observers say that as fighting drags on and atrocities mount, the militias are growing increasingly focused on sectarian violence and local feuds. Arms sent to fight the government may well heighten killing among Syria's ethnic groups.
This could make the stability of any post-Assad settlement harder to establish, rather than easier.This could make the stability of any post-Assad settlement harder to establish, rather than easier.
EgyptEgypt
• Human rights campaigners have welcomed the end of Egypt's infamous emergency law, which was allowed to expire yesterday, the Washington Post reports. Heba Morayef, a Cairo-based researcher for Human Rights Watch, said: "It's a law that symbolized the extraordinary powers given to the police, which created an environment in which forced disappearances and torture happened regularly."• Human rights campaigners have welcomed the end of Egypt's infamous emergency law, which was allowed to expire yesterday, the Washington Post reports. Heba Morayef, a Cairo-based researcher for Human Rights Watch, said: "It's a law that symbolized the extraordinary powers given to the police, which created an environment in which forced disappearances and torture happened regularly."
BahrainBahrain
• Recent apparent concessions are no more than gestures aimed at concealing a redoubling of efforts to subdue the opposition by increasingly powerful hardliners in the royal family, according to Frederic Wehrey senior associate at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.• Recent apparent concessions are no more than gestures aimed at concealing a redoubling of efforts to subdue the opposition by increasingly powerful hardliners in the royal family, according to Frederic Wehrey senior associate at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.
Buoyed by the successful convening of the Formula One Grand Prix in April, hardliners have taken a number of steps to further consolidate control. Much of the kingdom's political power resides in a conservative triumvirate comprised of Prime Minister Khalifa bin Salman al-Khalifa, Royal Court Minister Khalid bin Ahmad bin Salman al-Khalifa, and the commander of the Bahrain Defense Forces Khalifa bin Ahmed al-Khalifa—with the latter two being brothers, part of the al-Khawalid branch of the al-Khalifa family.Buoyed by the successful convening of the Formula One Grand Prix in April, hardliners have taken a number of steps to further consolidate control. Much of the kingdom's political power resides in a conservative triumvirate comprised of Prime Minister Khalifa bin Salman al-Khalifa, Royal Court Minister Khalid bin Ahmad bin Salman al-Khalifa, and the commander of the Bahrain Defense Forces Khalifa bin Ahmed al-Khalifa—with the latter two being brothers, part of the al-Khawalid branch of the al-Khalifa family.
The Crown Prince, considered to be the member of the royal family most open to the idea of responding to the unrest with reforms and dialogue, has seen his influence steadily decline since mid-2011...The Crown Prince, considered to be the member of the royal family most open to the idea of responding to the unrest with reforms and dialogue, has seen his influence steadily decline since mid-2011...
The hardline faction, which controls the security forces as well as the instruments of censorship, is now very open about its intention to silence the opposition.The hardline faction, which controls the security forces as well as the instruments of censorship, is now very open about its intention to silence the opposition.
Apparent concessions such as the retrial of political detainees, and the release of some prominent activists are no more than cosmetic, Wehrey said.Apparent concessions such as the retrial of political detainees, and the release of some prominent activists are no more than cosmetic, Wehrey said.
Given the current balance of power within the royal family, it is doubtful that these gestures presage deeper structural reforms. Most likely, as the opposition charges, they are tactical stop-gap measures to remove the regime from the spotlight of international scrutiny.Given the current balance of power within the royal family, it is doubtful that these gestures presage deeper structural reforms. Most likely, as the opposition charges, they are tactical stop-gap measures to remove the regime from the spotlight of international scrutiny.