The scattered unofficial border crossings between Syria and the northern Lebanese region of Wadi Khaled have been treacherous since the uprising against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad began some eight months ago. But in recent weeks, many points have become impassable and even more deadly than before, according to residents on both sides of the More »

During this time of profound change in the Arab World, we thought we’d take a look at some of the most – how shall we say – bold, megalomaniacal, delusionary quotes from Arab leaders who have met untimely  ends – or whose ends are imminent.   Let us know your favorite in the comments More »

Over the past six months, the Assad regime has systematically violated and strangled the basic laws for human rights in Syria. It has committed an organized and inexcusable amount of killings, torture, rape, organ theft, skinning, scorching and kidnapping of children from their families – to name a few. The regime has also used its More »

The U.S. and Syrian governments exchanged harsh words Friday over a visit by U.S. Ambassador to Syria Robert Ford to the northern Syrian city of Hama, a flashpoint for anti-government protests. The State Department called Syria’s charge that Ford tried to incite violence “absolute rubbish.” Ford was greeted by a cheering crowd and flowers as More »

The United States on Wednesday imposed sanctions against a Syrian police unit and key Iranian security officials in connection with Syria’s lethal crackdown on protestors. U.S. officials accuse Iran of providing material support for Syrian repression. Watch VOA’s interview with Human Rights Watch’s Deputy Director of Middle East Joe Stork on Syria’s human rights More »