Syria’s strife continues

The brutality in Syria continues. On Monday, Syrian forces shelled the city of Homs and repelled dissident troops from some Damascus suburbs, killing 28 civilians.

President Bashar Assad’s government is doing its utmost to crush the 10-month-old rebellion that has killed more than 5,400 people.

Meanwhile, international movements to end the violence and broker a settlement in Syria continue. The United Nations meets today to craft a resolution promoting an Arab League peace plan.

The plan calls for Mr. Assad to cede power to his vice president and allow a so-called unity government to be formed.

It will not happen. The regime has rejected the plan.

Russia protects Damascus by blocking any plan that might allow a foreign military role in Syria. Moscow has offered to mediate talks between the regime and opposition leaders.

Since most journalists have been banned from Syria, news is spotty. But the world is aware that the civil war shaking the country will determine whether Syrians remain under dictatorial rule or achieve a measure of freedom.