Naval attack on Latakia

In what represents a significant escalation in firepower, the Syrian government has deployed the navy to attack the port town of Latakia. Residents and human rights groups are reporting that 27 people have been killed as forces attacked by land and sea. The land assault began on Saturday and on Sunday Syrian naval forces fired shells on the city. Journalists have not been able to independently verify the reports because of restrictions on international journalists reporting in Syria.

Local sources say that the attack on Latakia continues today while at the same time Syrian troops and tanks are entering several towns in Homs province. Latakia has been home to large anti-government protests with one resident suggesting that around 20,000 people have been rallying daily.