Russia extremely involved in the Syrian conflict

Denial is not just a river in Egypt-- apparently it runs right down the middle of Russia's policies in Syria; no group is safe in Syria, particularly the wealthy; Lebanon editorial critical of Saad Hariri mysteriously disappears; and trouble's a-brewing in Mauritania.

Some Syrians are glad Russia has their back. Others are scared to death.

Blogs Al Jazeera [2]

Hijab: Russia in denial over Syria

It doesn’t seem Russia plans to change its position on Syria, which supports in the strongest terms President Bashar Al Assad and his inner circle’s rule. Russia, though in denial, is extremely involved in the Syrian conflict.

Syria Comment [3]

Syria Disintegrating

The poor are plundering the rich. The rich are fleeing in every greater numbers in order not to become targets of the poor. Everyone has a price-tag on his head

Qifa Nabki [4]

NOW Lebanon Editorial Critical of Saad Hariri Mysteriously Disappears…

Maybe this was just a technical error, but if the article was in fact taken down because of pressure from Hariri, then this is a big slap in the face to many of the decent reporters who work for the site.

The Moore Next Door [5]

Mechanizations in Mauritania: Reports

After a month with President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz in hospital in France, members of Mauritania’s ruling party, opposition and military appear to be growing impatient.