UN monitors leave as violence escalates in Syria

Violence increases in and near Damascus in what activists say is the heaviest fighting in Syria’s capital this month.  It coincides with the pullout of UN monitors because of deteriorating conditions and the failure to renew their mandate.  The government of President Bashar al-Assad is determined to quell rebel troops that began around 18 months ago.  The US and Britain warn Syria against using chemical weapons to try to regain control.  The UN Security Council set a ministerial meeting in New York for August 30, the day the last UN observers are due to leave Syria.  The UN has said international efforts to significantly reduce violence and curb Syria’s use of heavy weapons have failed.  

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