KUWAIT HAS followed Saudi Arabia in recalling its ambassador from Damascus in protest over Syrian security forces’ attacks on protesters.
King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia issued a statement yesterday calling on the Syrian government to stop the killings and saying: “What is happening there is not accepted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia”.
Reuters reports that Kuwait today recalled its ambassador to Syria and said that Gulf foreign ministers would be holding a meeting soon to discuss ongoing events in Syria.
Meanwhile, activists in Deir el-Zour are reporting fresh artillery fire today, just a day after at least 42 people were killed by government forces as President Bashar Assad’s regime continues its crackdown on pro-reform protesters. Residents reported hearing loud explosions, followed by sporadic gunfire.
An organisation which helps organise the protests claims that Syrian troops have entered the city and are refusing to allow residents enter or leave it. One activist told the Associated Press that the city is running short of medicine, food and fuel after nine days under siege.
Al Jazeera reported yesterday that Assad defended his troops’ actions, saying it is “the duty of the state” to tackle “outlaws”.
Over 300 people have been killed in Syria’s worst violence since the uprising began five months ago.
- Additional reporting by the AP
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