Queues at polling stations despite heavy security and mortar fire

Stage-managed balloting fails to convince poll is more than a charade as war continues

Forces loyal to Assad enter compound in military vehicles after year-long siege

Assad expected to win by landslide in June vote

Capital of Syrian revolt to be declared a ‘secure city’ as army moves in

Attack a blow to Assad’s government as troops prepare to regain control of Homs

Damascus condemns ‘blatant aggression’, says jet was over Syrian territory

Attack took place near a field hospital close to border with Turkey

Joint OPCW and UN mission overseeing operation believes it can be done quicker

Al Qaeda-linked Abdullah Azzam Brigades, claim responsibility for double attack

Russia says three day ceasefire agreed to allow humanitarian aid into besieged city

Deputy foreign minitser says Damascus battling security and logistical issues

Move seen as attempt to reassert authority over fragmented fighters in Syria’s civil war

UN mediator frustrated by failure to get agreement on aid convoy for Homs

Aid waiting outside rebel-held Syrian city as peace talks in Geneva stall

Face-to-face meetings between opposing sides will continue, Brahimi says

Syrian government side rejects demand to sign up to transitional government statement

Russia’s foreign minister says rival sides have promised to start direct talks on Friday

US and UN welcome move by Syrian National Coalition to take part in Geneva peace talks

Head of al-Qaeda rebel group calls for ceasefire between opposition factions