BREAKING NEWS

Syrian forces deploy Homs after 21 protesters are killed

AMMAN - Plain clothes security forces toting AK-47s deployed in Homs overnight, a witness said on Thursday, as the central Syrian city defied a crackdown following the killing of 21 pro-democracy protesters this week.
Residents, expecting more attacks from gunmen loyal to Syrian President Bashar Assad known as "al-shabbiha", have organized into unarmed groups to guard neighborhoods, said the witness, who reached Homs after going through two road blocks manned by security police.
"The atmosphere is tense. Another day of strikes is planned tomorrow," the witness said.