In Syria, army defectors have attacked government military bases near Damascus and France has recalled its ambassador, citing security concerns. The attack, by the Free Syrian Army, was "the first such reported assault on a major security facility," reports The Guardian. BBC News notes that there were no reported casualties in the attack:

Parts of the notorious Air Force Intelligence building in Harasta were reported to have been destroyed, but there were no reports of casualties. .... The attack came ahead of an Arab League emergency meeting in Morocco to discuss ways of ending the bloodshed. The meeting is expected to ratify last week's vote to suspend Syria and also debate possible further measures against Damascus.

The United States had previously recalled its ambassador in late October, citing threats against his personal safety. And this week has seen the "deadliest day" for violence since the anti-government protests began in March.

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Erik Hayden