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Syria Update, January 14-15, 2014. Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur

Syria Update, January 14-15 2014. (Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur)

Tuesday’s death toll: 183 killed including 40 civilians, and of those 7 were children.

UN aid teams abandoned delivery of aid to Yarmouk after the Syrian government insisted that it use a dangerous route to the southern entrance of Yarmouk. http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Jan-15/244117-un-abandons-aid-delivery-after-syria-insists-on-dangerous-route.ashx#axzz2qUVMvXzW

At least 10 and perhaps as many as 26 people were killed Wednesday morning in a car bomb in Jarablous in Aleppo province attributed to ISIS http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2014/jan/15/irans-fm-discusses-peace-talks-with-syrias-assad/

Starvation as a weapon of war in Yarmouk (and elsewhere) https://www.oximity.com/article/About-the-death-of-Palestine-at-the-ca-1

SANA reported that Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad today (Wednesday) in Damascus Syria. The two have been speaking about the United Nations conference scheduled for next week in Montreux, Switzerland. In the meeting Assad slammed Wahhabism and Saudi Arabia. http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/syrias-assad-slams-saudi-ideology-as-threat-to-world.aspx?pageID=517&nID=61082&NewsCatID=352

John Kerry’s message to the Friends of Syria – http://m.state.gov/md219697.htm

http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/01/13/us-syria-crisis-raqqa-idUSBREA0B0MX20140113

Refugees and Relief:

UK gives amnesty to 1500 Syrian refugees. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/10555821/UK-accepts-1500-asylum-seekers-from-Syria.html

Bulgarian neo-Nazis attack and threaten immigrants in Bulgaria including Syria’s estimated 10,000 refugees. http://muftah.org/bulgarias-neo-nazis-wage-war-syrian-refugees/

Oxfam says donor funds must go to Syria and the impacted neighboring countries. http://beta.syriadeeply.org/op-eds/oxfam-kuwait-donors-funds-syrians-neighbors/#.UtbKMGDGtGk

Aleppo province: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=map+of+aleppo+province&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x152ff85ac00b17c9:0xf68ea3d8dc74b61b,Aleppo+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=R9DLUKfTFoWO0QHBuIHABA&ved=0CC8Q8gEwAA

At least 10 and perhaps as many as 26 people were killed Wednesday morning in a car bomb in Jarablous attributed to ISIS http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2014/jan/15/irans-fm-discusses-peace-talks-with-syrias-assad/

On Wednesday morning, violent clashes took place between ISIS and Islamic battalion fighters and rebels near the town of Ratian, Jarablous, areas near the city of A’azaz, and the eastern countryside of Aleppo province . 3 mortars fell on Hrietan.

Tuesday, Islamist and rebel (other FSA) battalions took over Kafar Kalbin and Kafra, after clashes with ISIS. The regime’s security services tortured to death one man from Darat Izza A rebel attack killed 2 regime soldiers stationed at a checkpoint in the Salaheddin neighborhood, of Aleppo. Regime forces bombarded areas of Bustan al-Qasr and a mortar fell on the Meridian area.

Damascus province: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=map+of+damascus+province&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x1518e6dc413cc6a7:0x69e5b88ad5b0817b,Damascus+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=_s_LUPTwHqWw0AHTtYDQAg&ved=0CC8Q8gEwAA

So far, 49 civilians reported to have died from malnutrition or lack of medical supplies in the besieged Yarmouk camp; which has been choked by the regime for several months. Several mortars fell on Halab street, the Qusoor neighbourhood and the Adawi area causing injuries.

Also on Yarmouk (English and Greek subtitles): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcDQ4alZbu4

Dara`a province: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=map+of+daraa+province&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x15195fa1016e8de7:0xff6b41761235d49c,Daraa+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=u9DLUPDfIcXq0gGRwIHADQ&ved=0CC8Q8gEwAA

There was an airstrike in Dael (by the regime) here is a video of the aftermath: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQ443XO6GdI There was fierce artillery shelling of Jiza, and rebels destroyed a Doshka at the Nawa road frontline.

Regime shelling wounded a fighter at Inkhel: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tanUb5wgDns

Deir az-Zur province:

https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=Dayr+Az+Zor+province+map&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x1548153314d3dbad:0x9d5a68804221c27f,Deir+ez-Zor+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=WtLLUJL5NanI0QGozIH4Bw&ved=0CDMQ8gEwAA

Regime forces bombed the city of Deir az-Zur after midnight yesterday.

Hama province: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=hama+governorate&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x15248293d5052f19:0x6e6de1581c39ed96,Hama+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=CdPLUKKbIqyF0QHB94HQAw&sqi=2&ved=0CIEBELYD

Regime forces are launching a raid and arrest campaign in the village of Zor Assors and shelling the village of al-Jwayz. Violent clashes took place today (Wednesday) between the FSA and Assad’s forces at Muwak on the outskirts of Hamah and there was artillery shelling in the area.

Hassake province

39 fighters of the YPG were mourned today in Qamishli. They were killed in clashes against ISIS, Jabhat al-Nusra and Islamist rebel fighters near Tal-Brak and Tal-Hamis in the countryside near Qamishli from the end of December to the 7th of January 2014. The YPG has retreated from the area now controlled by ISIS and other allied groups.

Homs province: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=homs+governorate+google+map&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x15230eeab10528a7:0x65655b88027a8699,Homs+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=BFPRUM6RBaTI0AHw1ICoCQ&ved=0CDMQ8gEwAA

On Tuesday, mortars hit the Alawite village of Fella, injuring at least 3 civilians. Regime bombardment on the Houla area,killed 2 men and others were injured. Clashes between rebels and regime forces supported by the NDF took place near the town of al-Usiya. Gunfire was heard on the Homs – Tartous road near the town of al-Mazra’a, followed by regime gunfire. Regime forces hit the town of al-Ghento with heavy machine-guns.

Regime forces carried out raids and arrests in the Ghouta neighbourhood. Regime bombardment on the al-Wa’er neighborhood killed one man.

40 (here given as 65) died trying to break the siege of Homs.

http://eaworldview.com/2014/01/syria-the-65-men-who-died-trying-to-break-the-siege-of-homs/

Rebel mortar attacks on the 12^th of Jan. in Homs. http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/syrian-government-shelling-kills-20-21502907

Idlib province: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=idlib+governorate+google+map&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x152500e6cc6ed27b:0xe59a7e2f651fc24c,Idlib+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=51PRUIiREsaB0AHN_YD4BQ&ved=0CC8Q8gEwAA

Islamic fighters carried out an ambush on ISIS on the north side of Saraqeb killing a Belgian commander in ISIS, known as the Amir of Saraqeb was killed, and another foreign ISIS fighter. A third foreign fighter was injured and transported to Turkey.

Islamic movement fighters were killed and 10 others seriously injured (late Monday) by a large ISIS suicide car bomb explosion targeting a checkpoint and military motorcade between Ram Hamdan and Zardana Assad’s forces shelled several areas in the northern neighborhood of Ma`arat al-Nu`man.

Latakia province:

https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=latakia+governorate+google+maps&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x15241c8bc2bf561f:0xdbb2edac5c45c32b,Latakia+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=ghv_UOaOOMGW0QH88YDYDw&ved=0CC0Q8gEwAA

Regime forces bombarded villages near the town of Salma on Tuesday. One ISIS fighter was killed in the northern countryside.

Quneitra province https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=Quneitra+governorate+Google+maps&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x151eb4afcd3e069f:0xbcbbd63808a65623,Quneitra+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=Ch77ULCILuyP0QG67YDoDQ&ved=0CC0Q8gEwAA

On Tuesday, the villages of the southern countryside of Quneitra were bombarded by regime forces, killing at least 4 civilians and injuring 17. Clashes resumed near the town of al-Samadaniya al-Sharqiya, and regime forces continued bombardment there and brought in reinforcements from the National Defense Froces militia. There were reports that regime detained 15 civilians from the village of Shura, near Sa’sa’ town, and that regime forces were stationing themselves in houses there.

Raqqa province: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=map+of+ar-raqqah+province,+Syria&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x153719cee4c60ce7:0x9d4657e00e899ab6,Ar-Raqqah+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=PJ_bUKrTBObF0AGMuYHwBw&sqi=2&ved=0CC8Q8gEwAA

On Wednesday, it was learned that ISIS executed 2 civilians from Yabesa, five days ago. The two had been traveling from this Kurdish village to Tal Abyad to buy bread when ISIS took them. Their bodies were found near the village of Talsolah, with their hands tied behind their backs and they had been tortured.

The ISIS has released many Islamic fighters today.

Further ISIS attacks: http://syriahr.com/en/index.php?option=com_news&nid=1330&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.UtY0BWDGtGl

On Tuesday, regime forces have advanced towards the western barrier of the 17th division, the base was under the control of an islamist movement but it retreated days ago. Members from the division were observed planting landmines by the western barrier. ISIS has granted control over the Tal Abyad border crossing to a local council from the city (Turkey had closed the crossing earlier. Meanwhile ISIS took full control of the city Raqqah city following several days of clashes.

On Sunday, ISIS recaptured much of its territory. http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/01/12/us-syria-crisis-qaeda-idUSBREA0B0JD20140112

International:

14 Syrian rockets hit Arsaal in eastern Lebanon yesterday. http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Jan-14/244020-14-syria-rockets-hit-lebanons-arsal-source.ashx#axzz2qUVMvXzW

Gordon Brown speaks about the education aid needed for Syria’s refugees: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3a0ZR_PbFA

Lebanon’s prime minister, Najib Mikati calls for safe havens inside of Syria and for help with Syria’s refugees inside of Lebanon. http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Jan-15/244125-mikati-pleads-for-help-with-syrian-refugees.ashx#axzz2qUVMvXzW

NGOs pledge 14 million in Syrian relief campaign http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2014/01/ngos-pledge-400m-syria-relief-campaign-201411522535504457.html

Western countries’ intelligence representatives have reportedly been meeting with representatives of the Syrian government, despite the sanctions on Assad’s government in efforts to stem any backblow of jihadists to the West (or perhaps in the other direction?) http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/16/world/middleeast/syria-western-intelligence-cooperation.html

Human Rights Watch issues a warning that Islamist fighting groups in Syria are eroding the rights of women and girls, enforcing Islamic dress rules, and disallowing free movement of women to work or school. http://www.hrw.org/news/2014/01/13/syria-extremists-restricting-women-s-rights

UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon warned that nearly half of Syrians needed humanitarian aid in his address to a one day donor conference being held in Kuwait City: http://www.afp.com/fr/news/topstories/1242951/

Donors have pledged nearly $1.3 billion at this meeting: http://www.khaleejtimes.com/kt-article-display-1.asp?xfile=data/middleeast/2014/January/middleeast_January168.xml&section=middleeast

A new academic book on Syria’s television. http://www.jadaliyya.com/pages/index/16019/new-texts-out-now_rebecca-joubin-the-politics-of-l

Tags: Aleppo, Assad, Ban Ki-Moon, Damascus, Dara`a, Free Syrian Army, Hama, Hassakah, Homs, Human Rights Watch, Idlib, ISIS, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, John Kerry, Kuwait City Syria Donors meeting, Latakia, Quneitra, Raqqa, Sherifa Zuhur, starvation in Syria, Syria, Syrian refugees, Syrian television, Syrian women and girls, Yarmouk camp, YPG

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Syria Update, January 1, 2014 – Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur

1 Jan

Syria Update, December 31, 2013 – January 1, 2014 (Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur)

Death toll

On 28/12/13 185 Syrians were killed including 90 civilians,

130,433 Syrians killed from 18/3/2011 when the first protestor was shot and killed in Dar’a until 30/12/2013. The dead include 46,266 civilians (including 7,014 children and 4,695 women).

Disarmament teams gave up & ships returned to port, #Syria‘s chemicals not destroyed by 12/31/13 deadline. https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/nowsyrialatestnews/527994-ships-return-to-dock-as-syria-chemical-deadline-missed

A missile fired by Assad’s regular forces hit a bus in Aleppo today. http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Dec-31/242769-10-dead-as-syria-regime-shell-hits-bus-in-aleppo-city.ashx#axzz2p70lwxrj

Could the war in Syria last another 10 years? http://www.strategicstudiesinstitute.army.mil/index.cfm/articles/Will-the-Syrian-Civil-War-Last-10-More-Years/2013/12/30

Syria’s government said invitations to the Geneva II conference had not been sent out as planned by December 28^th. Blamed the delay on oppositions delay in attendance list. http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Dec-31/242760-syria-says-peace-meet-invites-unsent-blames-opposition.ashx#axzz2p70lwxrj

An older woman describes hunger, lack of medicine, medical treatment, the cold and deprivation under the siege by Assad’s forces. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZ3n5Yohszk

Ten videos on Syria from 2013 collected by Brown Moses which made a difference

http://brown-moses.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/a-year-of-conflict-in-syria-in-ten_31.html

Syria is the deadliest country in the world for journalists according to the International Federation of Journalists – worse than Iraq. 108 journalists were killed in 2013 in Syria. http://www.dawn.com/news/1077513/108-journalists-killed-in-2013-syria-deadliest-ifj

Refugees and Relief: In support of the Refugee Council’s effort to settle Syrian refugees in the U.K. http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2013/dec/31/least-uk-syrian-refugees

Violent clashes were fought between regular forces and forces of the revolution in the neighborhood of Maysaloon. Regular forces bombarded areas in the town of Tadaf

More than 517 people were killed in two weeks of continuous ‘barrel bombs’ dropped on Aleppo by helicopters and air force. This included 471 civilians, of these 151 children, 46 women, 34 revolutionary fighters and 12 ISIS fighters.

On Saturday, 64 civilians and 4 rebel fighters were killed. One of the rebel fighters died during clashes with regime forces in al-Rashdeen. Snipers killed two other rebel fighters in Salahadin and al-Khaldiyye neighborhoods. Of the civilians, 25 were killed by (the so-called barrel bombs on the Tariq al-Bab neighborhood (3 women, 4 children and a young journalist. 14 civilians were killed in an airstrike on al-Maysir neighbourhood, including 4 women and 4 children. Regime bombardment killed three children in the city of A’zaaz. Two civilians died from their injuries from airstrikes on al-Mash’had and al-Haidariyye a few days ago. 15 civilians, amongst them 5 children, were killed in an airstrike on areas in al-Marjeh neighbourhood about a week ago.

Regular forces bombed areas in the city of Yabroud and the Rima area near Yabroud.

Clashes between the regular forces and the FSA: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPRa3OPy71w&feature=youtu.be

On Saturday, 6 civilians and 10 rebel fighters were killed. One rebel fighter was killed in clashes with regime forces in Jobar. 8 fighters were killed in clashes in al-Dameer, eastern and western al-Ghouta, and al-Reef al-Junoubi.. Two children died from injuries incurred by a rocket on Douma several days ago.

On Saturday, 2 civilians and 1 rebel fighter were killed. Regime bombardment on Mukhayam Daraa and the town of Oum Walad killed 2 men.

Deir az-Zur province:

https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=Dayr+Az+Zor+province+map&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x1548153314d3dbad:0x9d5a68804221c27f,Deir+ez-Zor+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=WtLLUJL5NanI0QGozIH4Bw&ved=0CDMQ8gEwAA

Assad forces bombarded areas in the neighborhood of the old airport. Information was received about Jabhat Nusra’s bombing of 3 buildings where regime forces were stationed in the neighborhood of Jebailah with casualties among the regular forces. A car bomb for the bombing of fighters Front victory three buildings stationed forces the system in the neighborhood Jubailah . A car bomb blew up a commanding officer in the town of Asharh

On Saturday, 13 rebel fighters were killed. One of them was killed in clashes between regime forces and NDF fighters in the village of al-Jafra village. The others were killed in clashes with regime forces, among them a 14 year old rebel fighter and a rebel commander.

Regular Syrian forces bombed areas in the town of Kafrzeita. There were violent clashes between regular forces and revolutionary fighters dominated by the latter for several days.

Hassake province

https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=AlHasakah+Governorate,+Syria,+google+maps&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x400976912dee2dfb:0x1735b67e4a2454b0,Al-Hasakah+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=UMLTUOKtN4ra0QG9-oHYBg&ved=0CC8Q8gEwAA Clashes took place between the fights and protection units of the Kurdish YPG and National Defense Forces near the train station in the city of al-Hassakeh. A fighter died and two were wounded.

Five died after a mortar shell fell on Saha Hajj al-Atef in the neighborhood of Karam al-Shami in the afternoon. The old areas of Homs were bombarded by regime forces. A surface-to-surface missile fell on the neighborhood of Waer.

Some hopes and dreams for 2014 in Idlib http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ytwtDHiOpg&feature=youtu.be

On Saturday one civilian and 3 rebel fighters were killed or died of injuries. 2 fighters were killed in clashes with regular forces in Reef Homs. 1 man from the Sarmin town was tortured to death in the regime’s prison.

On Saturday, 2 civilians and 1 rebel fighter were killed. 1 rebel fighter died of wounds received earlier in clashes with regular forces near the 93rd division in the A’in I’ssa area. 2 children were killed by shells that fell on the al-Tabaqa.

International:

Lebanese army uses anti-aircraft defense on Syrian helicopters bombing Lebanese territory yesterday http://news.asiaone.com/news/world/lebanon-army-fires-syria-aircraft-after-raid-source

Soyuzneftegaz has signed a 90 million dollar deal with Damascus to explore offshore energy in the Mediterranean; an additional reason for Putin to continue supporting Assad. http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2013/12/27/putin_s_mediterranean_move#sthash.PUpuZNpw.dpbs

Syria asks the U.N. Security Council to prosecute Turkey and all countries supporting militants who are fighting the Assad government. http://www.presstv.ir/detail/2013/12/31/342887/syria-asks-unsc-to-prosecute-turkey/

Russia will install Iskander surface (nuclear) missiles to Syria (according to Israeli sources) http://www.hurriyet.com.tr/english/world/9691338.asp?scr=1

Tags: 'barrel bombs' refugees, Aleppo, Assad, casualties, chemical weapons, Damascus, Dara`a, Deir az-Zur, Geneve II, Hama, Hassakeh, Homs, Idlib, IMEISS, Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies, Raqqah, Russia, Sherifa Zuhur, Syria Update

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Syria Update, November 25, 2013 (Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur)

26 Nov

Syria Update November 25, 2013. (Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur)

Death toll: 200 were killed on Friday (11/22/13) including 49 civilians

At least 160 opposition fighters were killed over two days (Saturday and Sunday) in an effort to break the regime siege on areas of southern Damascus. No estimates given on regime soldiers casualties, as yet.

11 deaths reported in Aleppo today.

Reaction from the opposition on the planned Geneva II talks http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2013/11/25/syria-geneva-un-peace-talks/3695995/

11,420 children have been killed in Syria: http://www.imra.org.il/story.php3?id=62449

The Free Syrian Athletes Union mourned the death of Mustafa Al-Nakdali, Syrian wrestling champion, killed while fighting alongside opposition forces against regular troops in the eastern Al-Ghouta, in Rif Dimashq on Sunday.

Iranian fighters are shown here in Syria (along with fingers of the cameraman). You can briefly hear them communicating in Farsi. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gsh59Gxg8ig

Sunday, An assassination attempt on Syria’s Reconciliation Minister, Ali Haidar, killed his driver, but Haidar was not in the car according to the Syrian state news agency http://rt.com/news/minister-assassination-syria-negotiations-215/
However, the opposition said that Haidar was wounded in the attack.

An unsympathetic portrait of the changes in several of the largest salafi-jihadist fighting groups. http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2013/11/21/rebels_inc?page=full

4 British Muslims have been identified as among those killed fighting in Syria. http://europenews.dk/en/node/74498

A newly-leaked cable (from 2010) on U.S.-Syrian intelligence cooperation. Suggests that Syria was exploiting U.S. fears of salafi-jihadist groups even then. Mamlouk claimed Syria was successful because “In principle, we don’t attack or kill them immediately. Instead, we embed ourselves in them and only at the opportune moment do we move.” http://www.theguardian.com/world/us-embassy-cables-documents/250462

Refugees and Relief:

Some Syrian victims of the fighting are being treated in Israel http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-24998618

Book by a teen-age refugee: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/Culture/Books/2013/Nov-21/238607-the-heartbreaking-story-of-a-courageous-teenage-refugee.ashx#axzz2laQfx6Ib

Kidnappings:

Jamie Dettmer, a Beast reporter tells how he was almost kidnapped by Syrian soldiers in Qamishli and much about the three-way struggle (rebels, Kurdish forces, Assad’s forces in the area, see below under Hassake) http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2013/11/25/how-i-escaped-assad-s-army-in-syria.html

Aleppo province: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=map+of+aleppo+province&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x152ff85ac00b17c9:0xf68ea3d8dc74b61b,Aleppo+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=R9DLUKfTFoWO0QHBuIHABA&ved=0CC8Q8gEwAA

11 were killed in Aleppo as rebels fired on Jamilia and 20 were injured according to SANA. http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Nov-25/238878-11-dead-in-mortar-fire-on-aleppo-city-syria-state-media.ashx#axzz2lhn9HuAG

Today, the FSA blew up a building in Sheikh Maqsud with a mine.
Yesterday opposition battalions (of ISIS and Ahrar al-Sham in the new Islamic Movement alliance) strengthened their control over multiple villages in the southern Aleppo countryside, following a few days of fierce battles. Opposition forces gained control over the towns of Rasm Al-Sheikh, Rasm Ikerish, Yaman and Rasm Al-Helou, in addition to Sad’aya and Mazare’a Azan, among other towns. http://syrianewsdesk.com/en/2013/11/24/news-opposition-forces-seize-multiple-towns-southern-aleppo
Yamen Naddaf, a media activist was killed yesterday in Sheikh Saeed. http://syrianewsdesk.com/en/2013/11/24/news-media-activist-yamen-naddaf-killed-aleppo
Yesterday, the FSA targeted Brigade 80, targeted the towns of Nubl and Zahra and both military airports Alnayrab Kweiris . The FSA shot at regime forces in the neighborhood of Ashrafieh
Fighting also focused on Khanaser.
On Saturday, regime airstrikes killed at least 40 in Aleppo. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-25068112

The rebel forces are taking over villages and checkpoints in the Eastern Ghouta in an advance. http://reliefweb.int/report/syrian-arab-republic/syria-rebels-press-advance-around-damascus-aleppo-monitor

Yesterday, the FSA hit the regime forces’ barracks at Kamal Masharaqah in Jobar  with Grad missiles; also Dumayr military airport, and targeted regime forces’ enclaves in Barzeh . The FSA targeted the vehicles administration [building] in Harasta, and the Republican Guard headquarters on Mount Qasioun.

Rebel forces’ consolidated their grip on the international highway #Homs to #Damascus in #Qalamoun area http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96kAHXcl9RM …

The much-touted “Qalamoun offensive” (reported on by various journalists for about a month) may not start for a while. (Some on the Web claim it started on 11/15.) http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/security/2013/11/syria-opposition-qalamoun-battle-war.html?utm_source=&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=8604

However, 20 regime air strikes hit al-Nabk in al-Qalamoun on Saturday.

HRW’s Nadim Houry on Dara`a: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kd3D3rhO7YU&feature=youtu.be

Deir az-Zur province:

https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=Dayr+Az+Zor+province+map&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x1548153314d3dbad:0x9d5a68804221c27f,Deir+ez-Zor+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=WtLLUJL5NanI0QGozIH4Bw&ved=0CDMQ8gEwAA

Rebels gained control of the al-Omar oilfield and a number of tanks and vehicles, killing a number of soldiers.

On the seizure of the oil field: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/24/world/middleeast/syria.html?partner=rss&emc=rss&smid=tw-nytimes&_r=0

From Qanat Deir al-Zur:

Hama province: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=hama+governorate&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x15248293d5052f19:0x6e6de1581c39ed96,Hama+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=CdPLUKKbIqyF0QHB94HQAw&sqi=2&ved=0CIEBELYD

Yesterday: The FSA controlled the villages of Asafra and Albarghotah in the countryside east of Hama.  The FSA fired mortars at the Alhamamyat checkpoint and the Saman checkpoint killing regime forces. The FSA  liberated the Abidha checkpoint and also inflicted casualties there.

Saturday: Four martyrs are listed in (from) Hama — Abdul Kader Ahmad al Sayfi killed in shelling onto Hama countryside.  2. Ahmad Faisal Yousuf al Hasan killed in a battle at al-Quneitra
http://goo.gl/aVVJ8u
http://goo.gl/DbRLhL
3. Khaled Sha’ban of the FSA killed in the clashes in the city of Douma.  4. Jameel Shaleesh killed by regime forces in Harem
Regime forces stormed al Faraya neighborhood blocking all entrances, and arrested many young men.  Regime forces made many arrests in Tareeq Halab al-Qadim and took them to al A’laf checkpoint. 
There was shelling with barrel bombs on the town of Eqerebat. And al-Hamadaniyya. Intense shelling from the al-Rahjan checkpoint onto the villages outside of Salamiyya. Shelling with barrel bombs on the mosques of Kaferzeita.
Helicopters (regime) flew over and dropped barrel bombs on the mosque of Kafrenboda.
Western Hama province: Shelling from al Azezya , al Nahel and Joreen checkpoints onto the villages of al-Salhia and Zayzoon villages and al Jood farm.
Southern Hama province: Heavy shelling by the regime from checkpoint in the loyalist villages on the town of Aqrab
The FSA forces liberated Asmad , al Barghoteya , al Asafra villages and killed 35 regime troops near Abu Balaya, also inflicting casualties with a bomb to the east of Ma’ar Shohur. There were heavy clashes at the al-Kafer checkpoint to the west of Taib al-Imam.
The FSA liberated the checkpoint of al Webda farms inflicting casualties and taking cars and ammunition; also the checkpoint of Ibn al-Noona

Hassake province
https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=AlHasakah+Governorate,+Syria,+google+maps&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x400976912dee2dfb:0x1735b67e4a2454b0,Al-Hasakah+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=UMLTUOKtN4ra0QG9-oHYBg&ved=0CC8Q8gEwAA

Sunday: The FSA destroyed the PKK barrier in the village of al-Moharraket near alQahtaniyah.

Saturday: Was al-Hassakeh Martyrs Day – activists documented the killing of three villagers of Alaguebash who had been detained by shabiha of the PKK. They were among 30 detainees who were charged with cooperating with the FSA (the FSA killed 21 on the other side).
Major bombings in the city of Qamishli and 2 explosions inside of the city (believed to be at the headquarters of the Worker’s Party and also a car bomb).
Another car bomb hit a checkpoint 10 km. southeast of the outskirts of Qahtaniyya. Hospitals in the city were full. (Much of this report was unclear as posted, so not including it)

Homs province: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=homs+governorate+google+map&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x15230eeab10528a7:0x65655b88027a8699,Homs+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=BFPRUM6RBaTI0AHw1ICoCQ&ved=0CDMQ8gEwAA

FSA targeted a regime forces compound in the refinery yesterday.

Idlib province: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=idlib+governorate+google+map&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x152500e6cc6ed27b:0xe59a7e2f651fc24c,Idlib+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=51PRUIiREsaB0AHN_YD4BQ&ved=0CC8Q8gEwAA

Rebels blew up the Haboosh checkpoint; casualties reported. They also shelled he brick factory.
Raqqa province: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=map+of+ar-raqqah+province,+Syria&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x153719cee4c60ce7:0x9d4657e00e899ab6,Ar-Raqqah+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=PJ_bUKrTBObF0AGMuYHwBw&sqi=2&ved=0CC8Q8gEwAA

The rebels targeted the military airport and also shelled regiment 17.
International:

Pope Francis (along with Putin, with whom he is meeting) calls for a negotiated settlement in Syria. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/05/pope-francis-syria_n_3872435.html

2 Swedish journalists have been kidnapped in Syria http://www.taiwannews.com.tw/etn/news_content.php?id=2353580

John Kerry, U.S. Secretary of State says a peace conference planned for January 22, 2014 in Geneva is the best opportunity to form a “new transitional governing body.” http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/25/us-syria-crisis-talks-kerry-idUSBRE9AO0P420131125

At Geneva, the parties are supposed to work out a way to implement the principles in this full final communiqué for the Action Group for Syria (from June) http://www.un.org/News/dh/infocus/Syria/FinalCommuniqueActionGroupforSyria.pdf

Opinions:

From Amal Hanano
http://www.thenational.ae/article/20131123/OPINION/131129704

That the Iran-US agreement will not likely affect the Syrian revolution:
http://www.arabnews.com/news/483181

That the Iran-US agreement will not help negotiations on Syria
http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Security-Watch/Backchannels/2013/1125/Does-Iran-nuclear-deal-pave-way-for-Syria-compromise-Not-so-fast

Tags: 11, 420 Syrian children killed, Aleppo, Ali Haidar, Amal Hanano, Assad, capture of al-Omar oilfield, Damascus, Dara`a, Deir az-Zor, Dettmer near-kidnapping, Geneva II, Hama, Hassake, Homs, Idlib, Iran-US deal and Syria, Iranian fighters in Syria, ISIS, Jabhat al-Nusra, John Kerry, kidnapped Swedish journalists, Mustafa al-Nakdali, Pope Francis and Syria, Qalamoun, Qamishli, Raqqa, Sherifa Zuhur, southern Damascus offensive, Syria, Syrian patients treated in Israel

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Syria Update, November 8, 2013 (Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur)

9 Nov

Syria Update November 8, 2013. (Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur)

Thursday’s Death toll: 130 Syrians killed including 26 civilians and 33 regime soldiers.

U.S. presses Syria to participate in peace talks. (Apparently they did not hear what Syrians told the Russians). http://www.newsdaily.com/article/b4c822e8e783b1ef185da347dc7e7e3a/us-presses-syrian-opposition-to-agree-to-peace-talks

The new coalition Jaish al-Islam will reportedly get funding from Saudi Arabia and training from Pakistan. http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/nov/07/syria-crisis-saudi-arabia-spend-millions-new-rebel-force?CMP=twt_gu

Al-Jazeera aired a message from Ayman al-Zawahiri from last May when he dissolved Jabhat al-Nusra in favor of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Sham (ISIS). As Jabhat al-Nusra rejected this order, it’s not really clear what he or al-Jazeera intend by the repetition of al-Qa’ida’s order. https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/nowsyrialatestnews/519756-al-qaeda-chief-zawahiri-says-isis-to-be-dismantled-to-operate-as-the-islamic-state-of-iraq-

Refugees and Relief

The United Nations has launched a major campaign to vaccinate refugees against polio: http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/health/20-million-kids-in/879908.html

German scientists writing in Lancet, the medical magazine warned that vaccinating Syrian refugees will not likely stop the spread of polio (it needs to be addressed inside of the Syria as well). This strain of polio may have come from Pakistan. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-24854920

Syrian regime troops unleashed a very heavy barrage on rebel-held areas around Aleppo’s International airport at 5:30 a.m. local time, focusing on the Brigade 80 base (which formerly was held by the air defense force) trying to retake it. Rebels now control the road from here to al-Bab and don’t want to lose that route.
http://uk.reuters.com/article/2013/11/08/us-syria-crisis-aleppo-idUKBRE9A70JN20131108

9n. Sfeira: Fierce shelling with explosive barrels by warplanes targets the city
19h Talaaran | Clashes between the Free Syrian Army and Assad forces on the town’s outskirts.
16h Fierce clashes between FSA and regime forces in Khaldyeh neighborhood of Aleppo. A military convoy consisting of four tanks tried to break into Khalidiya and Bain Zeid neighborhoods
15h FSA was targeting regime groups stationed in an-Nairab military air base and the oil factory with mortar shells resulting in direct hits.
14h Regime artillery shelling on Bani Zeid and Alshrafiyyeh districts.
14h Fierce clashes between the FSA and regime forces in Khalidiyyeh, Bani Zeid and Alshrafiyyeh districts.
9h Regime warplane bombardment on Sabkhet Aljabbul area in the eastern rural area.

A mortar fell on the Tadamun neighborhood, causing injuries. Regime forces bombarded the Jobar neighborhood. Regime forces bombarded the Madniya area of the Qadam neighborhood. 5 rockets fell on the Qassa’ neighbourhood of central Damascus, 1 mortar fell on George Khoury square, no reports of casualties. Clashes on Filasteen street in the Yarmouk camp.

Parts of al-Hejeira and al-Mqeilabiya were shelled by regime forces. 2 mortars were launched into the al-Assad suburb. Regime forces bombarded Deir Attiya.

In Muaddamiyyat Asham : Fierce clashes between the FSA and regime forces on several fronts coupled with fierce regime artillery shelling on the city. Clashes are most intensified on the northern and western fronts. One civilian was killed in artillery shelling of the factories area.
Assad forces launched rockets at the towns of Al-Blaliyyeh, Hizrma and Nashabiyyeh as they clashed with the FSA on several front lines in Almarj area.
Regime artillery shelling on the city of Zabadani, Madaya and the western mountain in the area. There was fierce shelling on Bait Sahm  and al-Asali. Fierce clashes on the outskirts of Daraya between the FSA and regime forces.
Shellng resumed on al-Milahah and Hajirah al-Balad.
In al-Qassa , several civilians were injured when a mortar shell fell near Burj Arrus. Two civilians were killed in Bab Tuma and others injured when a mortar shell fell on al-Sheikh Ruslan.
 Several civilians were killed and injured as a result of regime artillery shelling on the liberated districts in al-Sayida Zainab amid fierce clashes between the Free Syrian Army (FSA) and Assad forces on several front lines in the city.
Regime shelling on Douma and Yabroud and on the town of Khan Asheeh in the western Ghouta.
Alqadam:  Assad forces have struck Almathniyah area with rocket shelling.
In Harasta, the FSA clashed with regime forces near the administration of military motor vehicles.
Damascus Rural | Harasta The Free Syrian Army (FSA) is fiercely clashing with Assad forces near the Administration of Military Motor Vehicles.
The regime forces launched a scud missile at northern Syrian territories from al-Qutaifah.

Parts of Inkhil and Nawa cities were bombarded by regime forces, 1 defected soldier was killed as a result in Nawa, and several were injured. Regime forces bombed the town of Ma’arba.

18h Heaving shelling and rocket fire on Tareeq Assud and on Eastern Ghariyyeh 
18h Inkhel : Assad forces are shelled the city with artillery and clashed with the Free Syrian Army on the eastern front line of the city.
17h Nahteh : One civilian was killed and a number of others injured as a result of regime artillery shelling on the town.
16h Regime forces fired on an-Naeemeh  and launched rockets at Saida.
16h Regime forces shelled al-Mseifrah  and shelled Ataman, and fired artillery at Kaheel.
Many civilians injured in the shelling on Tareeq Assud and Dar’aa Albalad
14h Regime artillery shelling on Busra Ashaam  on the eastern quarter.
13h At Inkhil , the FSA targeted the 15th brigade with mortar shells.
8 h. Regime shelling resumed on Dael.

The ISIS executed an Alawi family: 4 children 2 women and 2 men who were picking olives in their farm in Khneifees village, near Salamiya city. Clashes took place near the villages of Taloul al-Hamr and Khneifis between rebels and ISIS against regime forces and the Popular Committees. 4 children died from an explosion from the remnants of regime bombardment on the village of Rasm al-Ahmar.

14h Fierce clashes between FSA and regime forces near Samman and Kafr checkpoints along with shelling from Zein Al-Abdeen mountain targets the liberated villages
13h Jabal Shaheshbo: Rocket launchers shelling targeted the mountain’s villages
12hHarbanfseh: Many wounded were reported due to rocket launchers shelling in the town
10h Fierce clashes between FSA and regime forces in Aleppo Road neighborhood near the civil defense checkpoint
9h Harbanfseh: Continuous shelling
9h Sahl Al-Ghab: Artillery shelling from Jourein checkpoint targetted Hweiz and Hweijeh villages
8h Zeroun: Fierce artillery shelling from the rural development checkpoint targetted the village

On Thursday, sources confirmed that the YPG (Kurdish forces) took over over 2 villages west of Tal Tamer city, on the highway to Aleppo, after violent clashes with the ISIS, Jabhat al-Nusra and allied rebel groups. Yesterday the YPG took over the villages of Ghebesh and Tal Shemarin, which are inhabited by Syrian Assyrians.

Rebels captured a huge arms depot in Homs at Mahin yesterday. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WARWstvdvKM

At 17:00, Jabal Zawyeh: Fierce warplanes shelling targets Al Rami village
At 15:00, Khan Sheikhoun, FSA targeted the al-Faqeir checkpoint with mortar shells. At 12:00 Khan Sheikhoun: There was fierce artillery shelling from Khzanat camp targets west of the city
At 11:00 Qmeinas: Fierce artillery bombardment from the brick factory targeted the village.

Raqqa province: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=map+of+ar-raqqah+province,+Syria&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x153719cee4c60ce7:0x9d4657e00e899ab6,Ar-Raqqah+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=PJ_bUKrTBObF0AGMuYHwBw&sqi=2&ved=0CC8Q8gEwAA

Violent clashes between regime and rebel forces near the 17th battalion, near Raqqah city; reports of human losses on both sides. activists accuse the ISIS of blowing up the al-Sheikh Bandar shrine in Ratla village before the Ayman al-Zawahiri speech was aired (on al-Jazeera)

International:
Turkey’s police continued clashing with Kurdish protesters over construction of a border wall at Cizre which the latter say is an effort to separate Kurds in Syria from Kurds in Turkey. These clashes have been ongoing for several days. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdbQTxhSCkA

John Kerry, U.S. Secretary of State wants the international community to step up its support for Syria’s refugees, warning of the stress which host countries are undergoing: http://jordantimes.com/kerry-urges-intl-action-on-syrian-refugee-crisis

Syria’s main opposition, the National Coalition refuses to participate in talks in Moscow. Russia’s Foreign Ministry claimed the SNC said it would previously participate, but in fact, it has been adamant about not participating in dialogue with Assad and not unless it is clear that Assad will leave power.
http://www.ctvnews.ca/world/syrian-national-coalition-has-refused-moscow-talks-russian-foreign-ministry-1.1533536

Tags: Aleppo, Assad, Damascus, Dara`a, Free Syrian Army, Hama, Hassakeh, Homs, Idlib, Jordan, Kurds, polio, Raqqa, refugees, Russia, Syria, Turkey, U.S. pressure on Syrian opposition to attend Geneva II, vaccinations

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Syria Update, June 21, 2013 (Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur)

21 Jun

Syria Update, June 21, 2013. (Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur)

Yesterday’s death toll: 190 people were killed yesterday in Syria including 50 civilians.

France has delivered medical aid to Syria including an antidote for nerve gas. http://news.yahoo.com/france-makes-mass-medical-aid-delivery-northern-syria-193825971.html

Syrians protested all over the country today against the Assad regime as they have every Friday for months:

Protest in Latamneh today: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dY6CzK5g4Y

Demonstration in Kafranbel, Syria

Protest in Darayya today

THESE are the peaceful Syrian protesters the entire world wants us to forget about. WE WILL NOT! #Darayya #freedom http://t.co/2lElstGFmQ—
Faress Jouejati (@farGar) June 21, 2013

Protest in Mayadeen, Deir az-Zur.

Refugees and Relief:

451 refugees or roughly 100 families fled the violence in Syria last night to Jordan.

Double displacement of Palestinians in Syria. http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/palestinians-in-syria-are-displaced-again/2013/06/20/e03e7ad6-c879-11e2-8da7-d274bc611a47_story.html

Angelina Jolie tries to draw attention to Syrian refugees: http://us.cnn.com/2013/06/21/world/meast/syria-refugees-angelina-jolie/index.html?sr=sharebar_twitter

Syrian refugees and World Refugee Day: Present and future needs of refugees. http://english.alarabiya.net/en/views/news/middle-east/2013/06/20/The-Middle-East-s-refugee-generation.html

Regime warplanes equipped with large caliber machine guns are bombarding in the vicinity of Kwairis military air base. Clashes took place there at dawn.

Iyad al-Halabi, a citizen-journalist and member of Aleppo News was killed while covering clashes in al-Sakhour.

Overnight clashes took place in the village of Deir Ballout, in the Atma area, between the YPG and an opposition militia that includes non-Syrian fighters. These clashes resulted in the death of 2 YPG fighters; and three opposition fighters. The Syrian air force bombardment of the city of Manbaj killed three civilians. Pro-regime gunmen killed three civilians from Khanaser near al-Sfeira.
The opposition targeted regime positions in eastern Rif Aleppo, in Mathanat Shegheib and Dweirina. The regime forces bombarded the city of al-Sfeira. Several mines exploded as a military motorcade left the town of Khanaser town towards the al-Bouz exit, no reports of casualties.

Regime forces bombarded the Sheikh Maqsoud and al-Meyser neighborhoods overnight. Several rockets hit the neighborhood of Ashrafiya and al-Neel street. Sseveral people were injured on al-Neel. Two opposition fighters were killed in clashes in the neighborhood of Sleiman al-Halabi.
The SOHR urged the ICRC to go the Aleppo Central Prison where conditions have deteriorated. Three prisoners died of tuberculosis yesterday, there is a severe lack of food and medicine, and an outbreak of scabies.
More than 100 prisoners died in the prison since April 2013. The opposition began an offensive toward the prison saying it would free the prisoners then. It took control of surrounding areas which cut off the supply routes to the prison, and then took over nearby buildings on May 2, 2013. A suicide bomb on May 23, 2013 caused the regime forces to retreat into the buildings.

A woman was killed by regime forces bombardment in al-Qaboun – the heavy shelling caused a massive explosion earlier in the day. The regime forces may have used a surface-to-surface missile on that neighborhood where two men died of their wounds from the continuous bombardment; the regime has been trying to storm al-Qaboun for three days.

A mortar hit in Yalda, near al-Uroba street. The opposition targeted the Jabe’din regime checkpoint with mortars and sniper fire, reportedly causing casualties and damaging some military vehicles. 1 opposition died after clashes in Darayya. The regime forces bombarded areas of Erbin, Douma, the orchards al-Maliha, and the eastern Ghouta towns and villages.

The regime forces bombarded the area between the Qaboun neighbourhood and the city of Erbin city, by the south ring road, with rockets. Clashes continued there and the opposition destroyed a tank.

Clashes took place after midnight in the orchards of the Barzeh neighburhood, with reports of losses on both sides.

Regime forces have launched fierce rocket and heavy artillery shelling on Tariq Assed district, the Refugee Camp in Dar’aa al-Mattah and several districts in Dar’aa al-Balad. Clashes took place at dawn near the Bina’ al-shabab checkpoint in Dara`a al-Balad. An explosion rocked the town of Busra al-Sham after midnight, reports indicate that it was an attack on a regime position. A car-bomb exploded in the village of Alqin mainly inhabited by Alawi and Murshidi civilians. It injured 10 civilians.

Deir az-Zur province:

https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=Dayr+Az+Zor+province+map&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x1548153314d3dbad:0x9d5a68804221c27f,Deir+ez-Zor+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=WtLLUJL5NanI0QGozIH4Bw&ved=0CDMQ8gEwAA

Regime heavy artillery shelling on al-Hamidiyyah and Shaikh Yaseen

Clashes took place in the al-Resafa neighborhood, and the regime air force bombarded it and also the Hamidiya, Rushdiya, al-Jbeila and al-Matar al-Qadim neighborhoods of Deir az-Zur in the 372nd day of its siege of the city. One opposition fighter was killed by clashes in al-Jbeila.

On Thursday, the following were killed: Tawfiq Sulaiman Almonawer

Saad Ibrahim Al-Alusi; Hassan Obaid Al-Hussein

Mohammed Shaher Hussein

Ammar Abdul-Razzaq al-Hayes; Ahmed Ghallab Al-Abdan; Mahmoud Ali Hassoun

Clashes took place between regime forces and opposition fighters, near the village of Qasr Ibn Wardan in eastern Rif Hama with casualties on both sides.

10 dead Syrian troops were discovered near the town of Mas`ud in two caves and house where regime forces had buried them.

Regime forces stormed the village of Soha in eastern Rif Hama, and burned many houses.

Opposition fighters launched several rockets on the 66th battalion in eastern Rif Hama. The regime forces bombarded areas in the town of Qastoun.

Demonstration in al-Qamishli on 21 June, 2013: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=aenPA4Rkoe8

Demonstration in Amuda on 19 June, 2013: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkUFkFmfHOU&feature=share

Eight civilians including a woman from the city of Hama were summarily executed by a pro-regime “people’s committee” in the Hola area of Homs province as they returned from Lebanon. The city of al-Rastan and the Hola area of Reef Homs were bombarded by regime forces.

Civilians held protests in al-Fardus street and from al-Omari mosque, demanding the fall of the regime at all costs.

The al- Omari mosque protest:

The town of Ihsim in Reef Idlib is under bombardment by mortar. Regime forces bombarded the periphery of the town of al-Bara, and the city of Ma`arat al-Nu`man. Regime forces bombarded Ma’arat Masrin, Mseibin, Habit, Ma’asran and Kurin over the night (from Thursday into Friday). Heavy shelling on Kurin tonight as well. Regime forces also bombarded Kafarsajna.

Friday demonstration in Bennish:

Latakia province:
https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=latakia+governorate+google+maps&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x15241c8bc2bf561f:0xdbb2edac5c45c32b,Latakia+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=ghv_UOaOOMGW0QH88YDYDw&ved=0CC0Q8gEwAA

Regime forces bombarded the town of Salma.

This video shows regime shelling of villages in Latakia:

Unconfirmed reports by regime-funded sources that opposition troops had been killed in towns of Talla, Shahroora and al-Sukkariyya, listing the dead and calling them “rats” and “rodents.”

Yesterday, regime warplanes attacked the National Hospital in al-Raqqa. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKIw4fnOeAs&feature=youtu.be

Complaints against Jabhat al-Nusra in al-Raqqa on 6/18. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKIw4fnOeAs&feature=youtu.be

Women continued their sit-in against Jabhat al-Nusra on 6/19
http://syrianewsdesk.com/en/news/al-raqqa-women-persist-their-sit-near-al-nusra-headquarters

Tartous province. http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&bav=on.2,or.r_qf.&bvm=bv.46865395,d.dmg&biw=1024&bih=633&q=Tartus+governorate+Google+maps&um=1&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x15217de6195521ad:0x22456cab24b7bb7d,Tartus+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&sa=X&ei=KH2dUdqEDu2j4AO27oCoCw&ved=0CC4Q8gEwAA

Regime forces raided homes in al-Bayda on Wednesday and Thursday. The bodies of two young men from al-Bayda who had been tortured to death were returned to their families there.

International:

U.S. Secretary of State, John Kerry has traveled to Qatar to discuss aid to the Syrian opposition with the Friends of Syria. http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Jun-21/221143-kerry-heads-to-qatar-to-talk-syria-rebel-support.ashx#axzz2WsH0Rbyg

Jordanians demonstrated against Assad and Hizbullah in Amman. http://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/87740-jordanian-protesters-rally-against-hizbullah-assad

Two brothers from east London denied kidnapping journalists in Syria: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-23004079

The Philippines may pull its peacekeepers out of the Golan Heights.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/21/world/middleeast/philippines-warns-that-it-may-pull-peacekeepers-out-of-golan.html?src=recg&gwh=673ADC35B3074FA7D6B62A5F7226C249

The Lebanese army sealed off the area near Parliament after Syria-related demonstrations became violent on Thursday night. Demonstrators opposed a decision to postpone parliamentary elections. The new Lebanese government has been unable to form because of divisions over Syria. http://www.arabnews.com/news/455765

Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov says Russia will sell Syria S-300 missiles as promised. http://www.haaretz.com/news/middle-east/russia-stands-by-its-contract-to-sell-s-300-air-defense-missiles-to-syria-1.530977

Spanish authorities arrested eight people in Ceuta suspected of recruiting fighters to jihad in Syria. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-22999619

Appendix: Some information on the Murshdis of Syria, a sub-sect of the Alawis:
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/store/10.1111/j.1478-1913.2012.01416.x/asset/muwo1416.pdf;jsessionid=76BA911E3A427F7BFE23EE071FB7AA48.d01t03?v=1&t=hi7r5ywe&s=89bda5d6d4c7eff8493ba6cb547c1e69052ab301

UNESCO put six Syrian sites on its endangered World Heritage list: Damascus, Bosra, the oasis of Palmyra, the castles of Qal`at Salahaddin and Crac des Chevaliers, and the ancient villages of northern Syria:
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2013/06/2013620525729467.html

Some of Syria’s historical and archaeological treasures are: the remains of Palmyra (Tadmur), and the citadel of Ibn Maan, the early Bronze Age site of Ebla, the Citadel of Aleppo constructed by Salah al-Din al-Ayubi and the khans, madaris, suqs and Great Mosque of Aleppo, the theater and ruined town at Bosra (also site of the Mabrak an-Nabi where the Prophet Muhammad’s camel kneeled) the Canaanite city of Ugarit at Ras Shamra, Douro-Europas, the Greek colony on the Euphrates near Salhiye, Tal Faras and Tal Muhammad Diab in Hassake, Tal Brak, the Bronze Age Atchana, Ain Dara, sites at Qanawat, Shahba, and Suwaida, the Ummayad mosque, the citadel, suqs and other sites in the Old City in Damascus such as the Street called Straight, the Azm palace and the Tekiyye mosque complex in Damascus the chapel of St. Sergius in Ma`lula, the Hijaz railway station, the Zahariya library; the Crusader castle, Krak de Chevaliers, Salah al-Din’s castle built on the Saone fortress, Jaabar Castle, the Great Mosque an-Nuri, the mosque of Khalid ibn al-Walid and many churches and older buildings in Homs, and the citadel, Roman era water-wheels and khans of Hama.

Tags: al-Raqqa, Aleppo, Aleppo prison siege, Bashar al-Assad, Damascus, Dara`a, deathtoll, Deir az-Zur, French medical aid to Syria, Friday demonstrations, Hama, Hassake, Homs, Idlib, IMEISS, jihadists from London, jihadists from Spain, John Kerry to meet Friends of Syria, Jordanians against Assad, Latakia, Lebanon, Murshidis, Palestinian refugees from Syria, Russian missile sale to Syria, Sherifa Zuhur, Syria, Syria's sites on UNESCO endangered World Heritage list, Syrian refugees, Tartous

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Syria Update, June 16, 2013 (Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur)

17 Jun

Syria Update June 16, 2013. (Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur)

Death toll: 140 including 52 civilians.

U.S. military proposal calls for a no-fly zone inside Syria to be enforced from Jordan. http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887323734304578543761501124132.html

The Syrian opposition fought Hizbullah brigades loyal to Bashar al-Assad on Sunday, in Aleppo, trying to take back territory lost to the regime forces. http://news.yahoo.com/rebel-brigades-check-loyalist-advances-aleppo-opposition-154205539.html

Refugees and Relief:

Canada pledged 25 million Canadian dollars to aid Syrian refugees in Jordan. http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5j1R-Hk_jRmzjZw7m7AjQdxlsxNXQ?docId=CNG.291f7198f79dfb18227784dffcad7b20.2d1

Michel Platini, the president of European football’s UEFA toured the Zaatari camp and pledged to help Syrian refugees. http://ph.sports.yahoo.com/news/platini-vows-help-young-syrian-refugees-184624621.html

Will the United States allow more Syrian refugees to be resettled in

As explained above, the Syrian regime forces and Hizbullah fighters battled the opposition in Aleppo today as the latter attempted to re-seize territory. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gJDgtpnqBU

The body of a civilian from the town of A’zaz was found in a well in the Ard al-Hamra neighbourhood, having been tortured and shot. A mortar shell fell on the Qadi Askar neighborhood. Clashes took place in the Ashrafiya neighborhood.

2 men from the city of al-Sfeira were killed and regime forces bombarded al-Sfeira. Regime forces used fighter jets with machine guns on the town of Tel Rif’at. Clashes took place between opposition and regime forces, with support from the Popular Committee militia from the towns of Nubul and al-Zahra’. Clashes in Jabal Shweina killed one opposition fighter from Qubtan. Regime forces targeted and burned the farmland near Anadan.

20 regular soldiers were reportedly killed or wounded in an explosion targeting a military checkpoint near the Mazza military airport. This video shows the explosion at Mezzeh (it may or may not load): http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=U4nHvXw4Bf4

Regime forces bombarded areas in the Jobar neighborhood and clashes occurred there.

Opposition fighters from the Barza neighborhood targeted A’sh al-Warwar. At least 20 regular soldiers were killed in clashes in the southern neighborhoods. 1 child was killed and others when IED that had been planted by the sand barrier by the al-Madrasa part of Yarmouk camp exploded. Regime forces shelled the Yarmouk camp at dawn, and clashes were fought near the camp’s entrance.. 2 mortar rockets fell on the al-Bawaba al-Qariba in the Midan neighborhood.

Clashes took place on the Damascus-Dar`a highway near al-Qadam in which 2 opposition fighters were killed, a tank was destroyed and there were also losses by regime forces. Regime forces opened fire with machine-guns on the orchards of Barzeh.

Regime bombardment on Erbin killed three children and the rest of their family were injured. Regime forces blew up and destroyed homes on the western side of city of Harasta, near the highway. Regime forces bombarded areas of Bebila, al-Sabina, Hazza, Mou’adamiya, Yalda, towns, southern and western areas of Darayya, the Ahmadiya area, and the road linking Kafarbatna and Hazza. Regime forces bombarded areas in Beit Sahm and there were clashes there nearthe airport highway, reports of losses on both sides. Regime forces positioned in buildings in Jaramana also fired locations in Beit Sahm. A man from Zabadani was tortured to death after being detained by a military checkpoint several days ago.

An opposition fighter from Jabhat al-Nusra from the town of Mzeyrib was killed during clashes with regime forces in Dara`a today. Regime bombardment killed 1 civilian in Inkhil. Regime forces killed a woman from Da’el who worked as an emergency paramedic. In the al-Kashif neighborhood there was a report of the discovery of 6 more bodies of men tortured to death by the Syrian authorities.

Deir az-Zur province:

https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=Dayr+Az+Zor+province+map&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x1548153314d3dbad:0x9d5a68804221c27f,Deir+ez-Zor+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=WtLLUJL5NanI0QGozIH4Bw&ved=0CDMQ8gEwAA

Unknown gunmen assassinated the head of the Farmers Union in the city of Deir al-Zur. One fighter was killed in clashes with regular forces in the al-Rashdiyya neighorhood in the midst of artillery bombardment on al-Hamdiyya.

Unknown gunmen kidnapped opposition media activist Amer al-Huweidi two days ago in Deir az-Zur.

Fighters of the Islamic State of Iraq destroyed a Shi’i Husseiniyya in the village of Hatla village. (Hatla is where 60 Shi`i Syrians were killed on Tuesday.)

Fighters from the Jabhat al-Nusra and the Murabitun brigade reportedly took over military court building and the Bimo bank building in Deir Ezzour following violent clashes with regime forces.

Regime forces bombarded in the city of Muhassan.

Regime forces carried out a campaign of raids and arrests in the village of Safeena, taking away 2 persons, one of them a refugee. 3 civilians and 6 rebel fighters were killed. A man and woman from the village al-A’lbawi village near Salamiya were shot by regular forces at the Salba checkpoint. Regular forces tortured to death a man from al-Hmeidiya in Hama after detaining him. Aeriel bombardment on a location in the countryside in Hama killed 1 opposition fighter from al-Sanida. Regime forces killed 5 opposition fighters, including a commander in an ambush in the southern part of Rif Hama.

Helicopters bombarded parts of the town of Tel Hamis, damaging properties.

Regime forces bombarded the town of al-Ghento town and several people were injured. Regime forces are bombarding the neighborhoods of al-Qusoor and Jourat al-Shayyah in Homs with mortars. Regular forces tortured to death a man from the Karm al-Shami neighborhood; A sniper shot a man in al-Wa’r neighborhood days earlier; a sniper shot a man in the al-Hola area. Regime forces tortured to death a man from al-Qreitin. Regime bombardment killed a child in al-Rastan. In clashes in the neighborhoods of Homs, 5 opposition fighters were killed.

Regime forces bombarded parts of the town of Ma’arat Masrin, killing two civilians (one a child) and injuring others. Regime forces bombarded the towns of Telmnis and al-Dana, killing a man in al-Dana.

An opposition leader was killed by clashes with regime forces by the 17th division. Helicopters bombarded the area, dropping explosive barrels. The air force bombarded parts of the city of al-Raqqah, targeting a building by the traffic police building.

This article does not acknowledge the fighting that has taken place in Tartous – see previous Syria Updates.

Article on Assad loyalists in Tartous.
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/middleeast/la-fg-syria-loyalists-20130616,0,1279686.story?page=1&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+latimes%2Fmiddleeast+%28L.A.+Times+-+Middle+East%29&utm_source=feedburner&track=rss

International:

Syria’s Assad congratulates Hassan Rowhani on his victory as Iran’s new president. http://en.ria.ru/world/20130616/181699320/Syrias-Assad-Seeks-to-Bolster-Iran-Ties-after-Rouhani-Win.html

Earlier, the Independent reported that Iran will be sending 4,000 troops to Syria. However, there has been criticism of this report by Robert Fisk suggesting that there are no sources for the story. Including here for the sake of full disclosure.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/iran-to-send-4000-troops-to-aid-president-assad-forces-in-syria-8660358.html

Four Lebanese Shi`i men were killed near R’as Ba`lbak apparently in connection with the Syrian conflict. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/16/lebanese-shiites-killed-near-syria_n_3450298.html

UNESCO is holding its annual meeting in Cambodia amid concern for archaeological and historical treasures in Syria. Six Syrian sites may be put on an endangered list by the body: http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/breaking-news/unesco-world-heritage-meeting-eyes-syria/story-e6freoo6-1226664703774

Tags: al-Zaatari, Aleppo, Bashar al-Assad, conflict, Damascus, Dara`a, Hama, Hassaka, Hizbullah, Homs, Idlib, no-fly zone, Raqqa, Syria, Syrian historical and archaelogical sites, Syrian refugees, U.S. military plans, UNESCO

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Syria Update, June 13, 2013 (Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur)

14 Jun

Syria Update, June 13, 2013. (Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur)

Death toll: The UN says the death toll in Syria now exceeds 93,000 and may have even exceeded 100,000.

The U.S. government reported that it would be providing military support to the Syrian opposition although the details are not all clear. The decision was made based on the evidence that the Assad government has used chemical weapons. http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=yPPUl_s4Ljc

The opposition seized Quneitra on Thursday, a U.N.-manned border crossing between Israel and Syria.

Egypt’s, Saudi Arabia’s and Qatar’s top clerics declare jihad in Syria. Islamic scholars agreed to a bayan (proclamation) read by Shaykh Muhammad Hassan, a prominent Egyptian preacher: “Jihad is necessary for the victory of our brothers in Syria – jihad with mind, money, weapons; all forms of jihad.”
Hassan said that more than 70 organisations represented had called for “support, whatever will save the Syrian people”.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIsL6gGUxgY&feature=youtu.be

Refugees and Relief:

UNHCR replaces a doll left behind by a little Syrian girl thanks to another little girl living in Thailand. http://www.unhcr.org/51b837789.html

About 840 Syrians flooded into Jordan bringing the number over the last 2 days to more than 1,300 as the FSA and Hizbullah exchanged fire in Dar`a province.
http://jordantimes.com/refugees-flood-jordan-as-hizbollah-engages-with-rebels-across-border

Extremely violent clashes took place outside al-Sakhour in Aleppo as regular forces tried to storm the neighborhood from the al-Shaykh al-Khudur side and the side where the electricity company is located. A tank was destroyed and several regular troops were killed and injured. The regime forces shelled the neighborhood, killing two men. Regular forces also bombarded Tariq al-Bab, Jabal Badro, and Tariq al-Hamra. Rockets fell on the al-Jazmati neighborhood and at its outskirts, regime forces bombarded the village of Hamima. Clashes took place in Salahadin and as the opposition targeted the artillery battalion in the al-Zahra neighborhood.
Clashes occurred in the town of Ma’arat al-Artiq. The outskirts of the Kweiris military airport was subject to aerial bombardment. Regime bombardment of the city of al-Bab killed 4 children under the age of 14 . Regime forces also bombarded Kafarhamra, Rasm Assan, al-Safeera and Ma’arat al-Artiq. There were reports that the opposition shot down a helicopter that was dropping bags of food to the regime forces in the town of Nubul.
Clashes took place in the Sleiman al-Halabi neighbourhood, and alongside mortar and tank fire on the Sheikh Khudur neighborhood. The regime forces bombarded Sheikh Maqsoud. One source reported that the opposition freed Bab Jnen. A mortar shell was launched into the area near the al-Ba’ath party branch in the Jamiliya neighborhood. Violent clashes took place by the traffic police branch in Bab Antakya, between rebels and regime and pro-regime militia as the opposition tried to break into the neighborhood. Violent clashes took place near the Aleppo International airport, and the Syrian airforce bombarded rebel positions; there were reports of injuries.
On Wednesday, the body of a man was found with gunshots to his head and neck near a mosque in al-Bab city. Unknown gunmen had thrown his body by the mosque. Local activists reported that the man was detained several months ago by the Shari’a Council of al-Bab, in a theft case.
Syrian rebels had made advances on Monday in their battle to seize the Minnigh airbase, by taking the radar tower.
A 15 year old (some sources wrote 14 year old) boy, Muhammad al-Qatta was executed by opposition fighters in the Sha’ar neighborhood of Aleppo on Monday. Fighters from the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham’s Shari’a Committee detained the young boy at 10 p.m. where he worked selling coffee in the Sad al-Lawz area of al-Sha’ar, they captured him for blaspheming during an argument while he was working; apparently in response to a customer who wanted to be served on credit, he said “even if Muhammed comes back to life, I won’t [do it]”.

They later returned with the boy to the area, the child’s shirt was covering his head and he had been beaten and tortured. The fighters then publicly announced (speaking not in a Syrian accent but in a classical Arabic one) that apostasy and cursing the prophet is a terrible vice and that anyone who does so will face similar fate. They then shot the boy twice with a automatic rifle in front of the gathered crowd, in the neck and the head.

The Shari’a court of Aleppo has a security branch in the area but did not stop the summary execution of the boy. Despite complaints, no investigation has been undertaken so the SOHR made known which factions which were involved.

Testimony by the father of Muhammad Qatta (who was present)

Testimony of the mother of Muhammad Qatta

Testimony of the younger brother of Muhammad Qatta and a passerby by Muhammad’s coffee stand, who were present during the detention and execution:

Damascus province: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=map+of+damascus+province&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x1518e6dc413cc6a7:0x69e5b88ad5b0817b,Damascus+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=_s_LUPTwHqWw0AHTtYDQAg&ved=0CC8Q8gEwAA
A mortar shell fell on the al-Zahira al-Qadima, near the entrance to the Yarmouk camp. Another mortar fell on the Tadamun neighbourhood, and the Qaboun neighborhood was bombarded which caused the death of one man. A sniper shot a woman from Qaboun. Violent clashes broke out between opposition and regular forces at the entrance to the al-Yarmouk camp. Mortar shells fell on the al-Rawda area of Jaramana.

Opposition fighters bombarded the Damascus International Airport. Mortars fired caused delays of two landings and one take-off, and an airport worker was wounded.

On Wednesday, 10 unidentified bodies were found in the Qadam neighbourhood, activists said that they were summarily executed by regime forces.

How people are carrying on with their daily lives behind the battle lines in Damascus. https://twitter.com/BBCWorld/status/344754752460050432/photo/1

Dara`a province: https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=map+of+daraa+province&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x15195fa1016e8de7:0xff6b41761235d49c,Daraa+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=u9DLUPDfIcXq0gGRwIHADQ&ved=0CC8Q8gEwAA
Free Syrian Army forces and Hizbollah fighters traded fire for several hours on the outskirts of Daraa late Wednesday, marking the first clashes between rebel forces and the Lebanese Shiite group since their arrival in southern Syria 8,000 Hizbollah and Iranian fighters had encircled Daraa in a bid to lay siege to one of the final rebel strongholds in southern Syria.

Clashes took place north of Jasim city between rebels and a regime motorcade that was heading to Jasim, reports that a tank was destroyed. Clashes by the Der’a refugee camp, as regime forces try to storm the camp, they are bombarding parts. Regime forces renewed mortar bombardment on the south-western parts of al-Hara city, no reports of casualties. 1 woman from the town of Sheikh Miskeen was killed by a regime sniper by the al-Dawwar checkpoint.

Deir az-Zur province:

https://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=Dayr+Az+Zor+province+map&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x1548153314d3dbad:0x9d5a68804221c27f,Deir+ez-Zor+Governorate,+Syria&gl=us&ei=WtLLUJL5NanI0QGozIH4Bw&ved=0CDMQ8gEwAA

The village of Hatla is under regime bombardment, 2 men were killed as a result. 1 man from the town of Buqrus was killed by a regime sniper in the Husseiniya area. The Sheikh Yassin and Hamidiya neighbourhoods of Deir az-Zur were bombarded by regime forces – this was the 365th consecutive day that the Assad regime bombarded the city of Deir az-Zur.

These individuals were killed today: Adel Al-Mehia, civilian killed in shelling on the village of Alsalhea; Ali Al-Hebish, a civilian from Boqros Town, killed by a sniper in the village of al-Husainiyya.

– Muhannad Sobhi Hasan Aljaruo, martyred in Hatla Village because of shelling

Abdelnaser Hasan Aljaruo and Ahmad Nuri al-Jablan, both civilians killed in shelling of the village of Hatla.

Salah Jasem al-Ammash, defected soldier from the regime army, was tortured to death today by regime forces who arrested him 4 months ago.

Ahmad al-Thiban, of the FSA, killed in chashes in al-Rasafa.

Mohammad Touma, a defected soldier from the eastern Ghouta was killed in clashes in al-Rasafa.

Anas Aysar Saqur, and Aysar Saqur both of the FSA were killed in shelling on al-Hamidiyya.

A sniper shot an unidentified truck driver on al-Siysiya bridge.

Opposition fighters from several factions had captured the Hatla village, inhabited by Shi`a, following clashes, shellings and attacks on at least 60 Shi`a. It was alleged that most were fighters armed by the Assad regime. Some Shi’i civilians fled to the nearby villages At least 10 opposition fighters were killed in the clashes which erupted on Monday night when Shi’i fighters attacked an opposition battalion, killing 2 fighters and injured 8. After this, thousands of fighters attacked Hatla, they were in turn bombarded by Syrian regular forces stationed at the Deir Izzor military airport.

On Tuesday, this video was posted, and in it a man says they’ve burned all the houses of the Shi`a apostates. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5kgnh2SCMY&feature=youtu.be

Regime forces bombarded the village of Atshan and the farmlands by the city of Latamneh. Helicopters dropped explosive barrels on the village of al-Na’imiya, as regime forces also bombarded on the ground.

Violent clashes broke out at dawn today between opposition fighters and regular forces near a military stronghold at the southern outskirts of the town of Mourk town which that lies on the Damascus-Aleppo international road. Opposition fighters took hold of the stronghold, seized weapons and ammunition and killed at least 6 regular soldiers.

Regime forces bombarded the town of Kafrnbouda at dawn on Thursday.

An armed group kidnapped 10 Kurdish civilians in the al-Busra roundabout from a bus belonging the al-Rafidein company and also stole the bus.

Clashes took place this morning between opposition and regime forces who manned the Kherab Askar checkpoint, south of Tel Hamis town. The opposition forces took over the checkpoint.

Two civilians from the We’er neighbor hood of Homs were killed, 1 was shot by a sniper and the other died from wounds received in a sniper attack two weeks ago. Clashes took place in the Wadi al-Sayeh neighborhood. Regime forces and Hizbullah forces have stormed the village al-Husseiniya village.

A husband and wife were killed in an airstrike on Old Homs.
Moving a little girl to a field hospital after she’s hit in an airstrike in Old Homs. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4Kkkim93yQ

On Sunday, shabiha (militia members) were brought by bus by the regime into al-Qusayr to hold a rally for the President. https://twitter.com/Abukraim/status/343735942227578880/photo/1

Regime fighter planes carried out an air raid on the Taftanaz military airport. Regime forces bombarded the towns of Deir al-Sharqi and Deir al-Gharbi, causing injuries.

Regime forces bombarded the villages of Ara and al-Maroniyat, near the town of Salma as well as Nahiyat Rabi’a.

The leader of a Syrian Kurdish rebel faction from Kobani was killed when regime forces bombarded a sugar storage space in the city of Raqqah city yesterday setting it on fire. The airforce bombarded the area by the 17th division, north of Raqqah. Fires broke out in the Tabqa military airport. Seven rebel fighters, including a field commander were reportedly killed in the clashes by the 17th division.

A mortar shell fell near the al-Asfar warehouse by the al-Qitaran station, and it was reported that 7 were injured.

International:

Egyptians are told they may go to Syria to fight the Assad regime as Sunni clerics call for jihad. http://www.newser.com/article/da6t0hho0/egypts-presidency-says-it-citizens-free-to-fight-in-syria-as-sunni-clerics-call-for-jihad.html

U.S. Deputy national security advisor for strategic communications Ben Rhodes issued a formal statement on the U.S. governments position on Assad’s use of chemical weapons and will now be assisting the Supreme Military Council of the Syrian opposition. http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2013/06/13/white-house-statement-on-use-of-chemical-weapons-in-syria/

U.S. Senators McCain and Graham call for a no-fly zone in Syria. http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/senate/305495-mccain-graham-called-on-obama-to-establish-no-fly-zone-in-syria

Former U.S. President Clinton expresses comments critical of Obama’s sitting on the sidelines in Syria (if he continues to do so). http://www.slate.com/blogs/the_slatest/2013/06/13/bill_clinton_on_syria_obama_risks_looking_like_a_fool_and_a_wuss.html

Kuwait’s parliament condemned sectarian rhetoric over the Syrian conflict today, apparently in response to an anti-Hizbullah demonstration outside the Lebanese embassy where a fiery speech was given by a Muslim cleric against Hizbullah’s involvement. http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/06/13/us-syria-kuwait-idUSBRE95C1BP20130613

Basic Facts about Syria:

Population: 22,530,746  (minus 93,000 to 100,000) Ethnicities: Arab 90.3%, Kurds, Armenians, and other 9.7% Religious Groups: Sunni Muslim (74%, other Muslim (includes Alawite, Isma`iliyya, Druze) 16%, Christian 10%, Jewish (very small numbers).

GDP Growth Rate: -2% (2011) GDP: $64.7 billion   GDP Growth Rate: -2% (2011)
Unemployment: 8.3% Youth Unemployment (ages 15-24): 19.1% (female unemployment in that age category is 49.1% 

Internet Users: 4.469 million (2009) Exchange Rate: 46.456 Syrian pounds per US dollar 
Military Expenditures: 5.9% of GDP (2005)

Population Growth Rate: -0797.% (since the conflict)  

Population Age Structure: 0-14 years: 35.2%; 15-64 years: 61%; 65 years and over: 3.8% 
Literacy: male 86% female 73.6%   
Urban Population: 56% of total (2010)

Syrian Arab Army (prior to the conflict) 220,000 regular and 280,000 reserves. Of the 200,000 career soldiers, 140,000 are Alawi.

Syria’s Golan Heights is occupied by Israel and 1,000 members of a U.N. Disengagement Observer Force patrol a buffer zone.

Tags: Aleppo, Bashar al-Assad, bayan on jihad in Syria, Clinton, conflict, Damascus, Dara`a, Hama, Hassake, Homs, Idlib, Kuwait, Latakia, McCain, Quneitra, Raqqa, Syria, U.S. to provide military aid to Syrian opposition, use of chemical weapons

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Syria Update, June 21, 2013 (Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur)

Syria Update, June 16, 2013 (Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur)

Syria Update, June 13, 2013 (Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies. By Sherifa Zuhur)

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