Thousands of Syrians have fled into Turkey fearing a military attack, officials have said, as the country prepares for the possibility of more violent anti-government protests
Government troops have massed outside the town of Jisr al-Shughour, the scene of recent demonstrations, residents have said, adding that the settlement was now largely deserted.
There are now fears violence could intensify after Friday prayers.
The latest reports of a government crackdown intensified international concerns over Syria's handling of the protests.
Britain, France, Germany and Portugal have asked the UN Security Council to condemn President Assad, although veto-wielding Russia has said it would oppose such a move.
Foreign ministry spokesman Alexander Lukashevich said the Damascus government must be allowed time to implement promised reforms.
He said: "We do not believe the Syrian issue is a subject for consideration by the Security Council, let alone the adoption of some kind of resolution.
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http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/Syria-Thousands-Flee-Over-The-Border-Into-Turkey-Fearing-A-Military-Attack-In-Jisr-Al-Shughour/Article/201106216009213?lpos=World_News_First_Home_Article_Teaser_Region_1&lid=ARTICLE_16009213_Syria%3A_Thousands_Flee_Over_The_Border_Into_Turkey%2C_Fearing_A_Military_Attack_In_Jisr_Al-Shughour
Government troops have massed outside the town of Jisr al-Shughour, the scene of recent demonstrations, residents have said, adding that the settlement was now largely deserted.
There are now fears violence could intensify after Friday prayers.
The latest reports of a government crackdown intensified international concerns over Syria's handling of the protests.
Britain, France, Germany and Portugal have asked the UN Security Council to condemn President Assad, although veto-wielding Russia has said it would oppose such a move.
Foreign ministry spokesman Alexander Lukashevich said the Damascus government must be allowed time to implement promised reforms.
He said: "We do not believe the Syrian issue is a subject for consideration by the Security Council, let alone the adoption of some kind of resolution.
Read More
http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/Syria-Thousands-Flee-Over-The-Border-Into-Turkey-Fearing-A-Military-Attack-In-Jisr-Al-Shughour/Article/201106216009213?lpos=World_News_First_Home_Article_Teaser_Region_1&lid=ARTICLE_16009213_Syria%3A_Thousands_Flee_Over_The_Border_Into_Turkey%2C_Fearing_A_Military_Attack_In_Jisr_Al-Shughour
