United Nations special envoy Lakhdar Brahimi is due to arrive in Syria in the coming days for talks with both President Bashar al-Assad and with the rebel opposition. Brahimi’s visit comes amidst ongoing violence that has pushed the death toll in the Syria conflict well past 20,000. At the United Nations, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon renewed calls on both sides to halt the fighting.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon: “First and foremost, the violence must stop, by both sides, regardless of what their political grievances or problems may be. That is not acceptable at all. Then, those countries who may have influence over two parties should exercise (that) and should be united in their influence. Then, thirdly, they should immediately begin the political dialogue to have a political resolution reflecting the genuine aspirations of the Syrian people.”