Mid East turmoil spreads to Syria as Assad faces unprecedented challenges

The turmoil in the Middle East has spread to Syria which has seen unprecedented challenges to the ten year rule of President Assad.

Over the last week anti-government demonstrations have been gaining momentum amid reports that dozens of peaceful protesters have been killed by the country's security forces.

There have been clashes today in a number of places including the capital and in the southern city of Deraa.

Tonight the foreign office said it was deeply concerned by the latest developments.

Jeremy Bowen reports.