Syrians protests to continue during Ramadan

Syrian troops stormed the restive city of Hama on Sunday, the day before the start of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. Tanks have now been shelling the city for three days. A human rights organisation reported 136 people were killed across the country on Sunday. Syrian protestors have vowed to demonstrate every night during Ramadan.

Italy recalled its ambassador to Syria to protest what it termed the "horrible repression" of protestors, but other European countries have not yet followed suit. However, the EU added Syrian defence minister Ali Habib and other security officials to a list of people targeted by asset freezes and travel bans.

On Thursday the UN Security Council issued a statement condemning the use of force against Syrian protestors, but China and Russia prevented any further measures from passing. (Condensed from Al Jazeera English)