Despite the crackdown, the protest movement does not appear to be losing steam. Many people were also surprised to learn that thousands of women blockaded the Tartous-Banias highway to demand the release of their husbands, who had been arrested.
After making vague promises about reform and staging pro-regime demonstrations, Syrian authorities appear to have opted for repression.
About 150-200 people were reportedly arrested in Baida, “dozens” more were detained in Banias, a town now surrounded by tanks and police.
Syrian security forces are also receiving aid and advice from Iranian officials, who earned their “expertise” in crushing the green wave movement at home.
Iranian authorities are providing Damascus with material support as well as technical assistance to monitor online communication from opposition groups to organise protests, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing US administration sources. (PD)