Beirut (AsiaNews) - The "need to open a dialogue" to end the conflict in Syria "becomes more and more clear." The statement made today by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavorov could open a window in the bloody civil war that has gone on for two almost years. Lavrov 's declaration came after a meeting with the Secretary General of the Arab League Nabil al-Arabi and represents a potentially important step from one of the most important allies of the Bashar al-Assad regime. Curbing optimism somewhat is Lavrov's statement means there will be a change in the attitude hitherto held by Russia, in its support for the Syrian president's position, who still refuses the conditions laid down by the opposition, who agree to peace negotiations only if he leaves power.
Also on the diplomatic front, the Prime Minister of Qatar, one of the main rebellion supporters, has issued a statement challenging the EU's decision to extend the arms embargo against Syria by three months. Jassim Al Thani has said he was "astonished" by the decision. "The rebels - he added - just want to defend themselves. At this time the decision is wrong, it will only prolong the war."
The UN is instead pushing for dialogue to end the conflict on the back of a humanitarian situation that it defined yesterday as "a tragedy that is unfolding before our eyes." In a briefing Valerie Amos, head of the United Nations agency for emergency and rescue operations, said that at the end of last year four million Syrians were in need of help, but the situation has been worsened by bombings, inflation, lack of food and medicine.
Added to this already desperate situation are reports by the World Health Organization of 2,500 cases of typhoid in the northern province of Deir az-Zor, currently in the hands of the rebels. They say the outbreak has been caused by people drinking the polluted water of the Euphrates River. An energy black out which has closed down the pumps used to draw water from safe sources.
On the ground, yesterday's successful launch of two or three mortar rounds targeting the presidential palace in Tishreen, is seen as significant. Even if they appear to have caused no damage to persons or property, the explosions send a clear signal to members of the regime that no place is safe for them. (PD)