In Syria, government forces continue to shell the city of Homs despite a temporary deal to grant aid workers access to wounded civilians. Officials with the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Syrian Red Crescent are waiting to enter the city after both the Syrian government and rebel groups agreed to suspend clashes. A Red Cross spokesperson had announced the deal on Wednesday.

Hicham Hassan: “We have received an official agreement from the Syrian government to enter some districts of the city of Homs and the old city. We have also had assurances and guarantees from the Syrian opposition, and this is what we want to carry out now alongside the Syrian Red Crescent so we can enter and evacuate victims who are wounded or ill, as well as the elderly, women and children, while taking in food supplies that are needed today in the city of Homs.”