MUSLIM BROTHERHOOD IS ON A ROLL….NOW ABETTING PROTESTERS IN SYRIA
http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/Syria-Muslim-Brotherhood-Calls-For-People-To-Take-To-The-Streets-To-Protest-Against-The-Regime/ArticleMuslim_Br
The banned Muslim Brotherhood has called on Syrians to take to the streets to protest against the regime ahead of Friday prayers.
The declaration is the first time that the Brotherhood, whose leadership is in exile, have called directly for demonstrations since pro-democracy demonstrations against President Bashar al Assad’s autocratic rule erupted six weeks ago.
It comes as members of the country’s army units have reportedly clashed with each other over the crackdown on protesters in the city of Deraa – the heart of the popular uprising.
More than 500 people have been killed across Syria – about 100 in Deraa alone – since the revolt against President Assad began in mid-March, according to human rights groups.
Ausama Monajed, a spokesman for a group of opposition figures in Syria and abroad, said the clashes among the troops have occurred since President Assad sent the army into the city on Monday.
He said: “There are some battalions that refused to open fire on the people.
Amateur video of a man throwing a rock at a tank reportedly in Deraa
“Battalions of the 5th Division were protecting people, and returned fire when they were subjected to attacks by the 4th Division.”
The 4th division is run by the president’s brother, Maher.
The Syrian government has denied there have been clashes between army units.
The reported infighting in Deraa does not indicate any decisive splits in the military.
But the development is being seen as significant because President Assad’s army has been seen as a bastion of support for the regime.
The Assad regime has been heavily criticised internationally and the US is considering tightening sanctions against the country.
European governments will discuss the situation on Friday
A push for the UN Security Council to condemn the crackdown was blocked by Russia, China and Lebanon on Wednesday night.
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