Arab League sanctions on Syria 'a tough step'

The Arab League has approved sanctions against Syria, including an asset freeze and an embargo on investments.

The move comes after months of anti-government protests in which the UN estimates about 3,500 people have died.

League foreign ministers adopted the unprecedented sanctions at a meeting in Cairo by a vote of 19 to three.

The BBC's Jon Leyne said the sanctions were a "tough step" against President Assad's government, which would have a significant economic impact.