Syria’s Assad claims war advantage
Craig TaylorSyria’s President Assad claims his government has gained the upper hand in the civil war which has raged for more than three years. BBC News – Middle East
Middle East
Iran anger over US visa refusal
Iran insists it will not replace its new envoy to the UN after the US refuses a visa to the diplomat over alleged links to the 1979 hostage crisis. BBC News – Middle East
US Congress passes ban on Iran envoy
The US Congress passes a bill that would bar Iran’s pick for UN envoy from entering the country, as the White House signals opposition to the choice. BBC News – Middle East
Car bombings ‘kill 25’ in Homs
Two car bombs kill at least 25 people in Homs, Syrian state media say, hours after government forces reportedly capture a key town. BBC News – Middle East
UN warns of effects of Syria drought
The UN warns that a drought in Syria could lead to a record low wheat harvest at a time when food aid has been cut due to a lack of funds. BBC News – Middle East
Deadly clash in Syrian refugee camp
At least one person is reported killed and dozens hurt in a riot at Jordan’s Zaatari camp, home to some 106,000 refugees from Syria’s war. BBC News – Middle East