Syrian human rights groups are claiming at least 45 civilians have been killed in government attacks in the northern province of Idlib. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says more than half the victims’ bodies were found with their hands tied behind their backs. Syrian opposition activists are holding new protests today to condemn the regime of Bashar al-Assad and call for greater international aid. Speaking for U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, a U.N. spokesperson condemned the Syrian crackdown.

Martin Nesirky: “Well over 8,000 people are dead as a result of the government’s decision to choose violent repression over peaceful political dialogue and genuine change. It is urgent to break the cycle of violence, stop military operations against civilians and prevent a further militarization of the conflict in Syria. The status quo in Syria is indefensible.”