Syria unrest: Heavy clashes erupt in Homs province
DAMASCUS. October 1. KAZINFORM Heavy fighting has taken place between the Syrian army and opposition activists in central Homs province, as anti-government protests continue; Kazinform refers to BBC.
In Rastan, seven soldiers and police were reportedly killed battling troops who had defected to the opposition.
At least 11 protesters died after thousands took to Syrian streets after Friday prayers, activists said.
Meanwhile, the US has rebuked Syria over an attack on US Ambassador Robert Ford on Thursday.
A US state department spokeswoman said the Syrian ambassador was summoned on Friday and told that "an attack on Ford is an attack on the United States", and said that the US had asked for compensation for the incident.
Mr Ford was pelted with stones and tomatoes by a mob loyal to President Bashar al-Assad ahead of a meeting with an opposition figure in Damascus.
Correspondents say the demonstrations in Syria, which began peacefully six months ago, are becoming increasingly violent as protesters grow frustrated at the lack of any tangible reform.
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