Syrian Rebels Reportedly Retreat From Bab Amr In face Of Army Onslaught -- Washington Post
BEIRUT — The Free Syrian Army announced Thursday that it was staging what it called a tactical retreat from the stricken Bab Amr neighborhood in the Syrian city of Homs, citing concerns for the welfare of civilians and the lack of sufficient weaponry to withstand an escalating offensive by better-armed government troops.
The move came a day after Syria’s army launched a fresh push to retake Bab Amr, which has become a powerful symbol of resistance to the regime led by President Bashar al-Assad. Bab Amr has been under siege by government troops and bombarded on a daily basis for nearly four weeks.
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MIDDLE EAST
Syrian rebels leave embattled Homs stronghold.
Western sanctions tighten squeeze on Iran oil exports.
Key constituencies disillusioned as Iran votes.
Israel shuts down two Palestinian TV stations in Ramallah.
Turkey: Ten wounded in Istanbul police bus blast. Bombing wounds 15 policemen in Turkey.
ASIA
NKorea nuclear envoy to visit US on heels of deal.
China welcomes North Korea's moratorium on nuclear tests.
Myanmar President vows more democratic reform.
Maldives president blocked from opening Parliament.
Japan tsunami debris spreading across Pacific.
AFRICA
Nigeria pirates kidnap cargo ship crew in raid.
South Sudan accuses north of bombing oil wells.
Senegal presidential poll results confirm run-off.
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Julius Malema expelled from ANC.
In Seychelles, scary moments described aboard ship.
EUROPE
Eurozone unemployment continues to rise.
EU summit: Greek parliament backs bailout cuts.
Russia sees no progress at missile defense talks.
Russia election: Vladimir Putin supporters 'using illegal methods to ensure victory'.
UN: Drug mobs rule UK cities.
Greek unions walk out, parliament cuts health costs.
AMERICAS
Thousands of Aristide supporters demonstrate in Haiti.
Tornadoes rip through Illinois and Kansas killing at least 12.
Argentina pursuing policy of confrontation, says No 10.
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US mosques increase in number despite post-9/11 suspicions.
TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR
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Egypt says man seized at airport not al Qaeda leader.
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ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS
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