Saudi King Condemns Syrian Violence

(Newser) – With tanks continuing an onslaught against Syria’s uprising, Saudi Arabia’s king voiced harsh criticism of the crackdown and withdrew his ambassador to the country. “What is happening in Syria is not acceptable for Saudi Arabia,” King Abdullah said in a televised statement, calling on authorities to stop “the killing machine and end the bloodshed.” “Syria should think wisely before it's too late and issue and enact reforms that are not merely promises but actual reforms.”

Kuwait and Bahrain soon followed suit, recalling their own ambassadors, the New York Times reports. “No one can accept the bloodshed in Syria,” said Kuwait’s foreign minister. “The military option must be halted.” Despite the growing opposition from Gulf states, tanks and troops have continued their attack on dissenters, Reuters reports; at least 65 have been killed in Deir al-Zor since yesterday, said a resident. “Armored vehicles are shelling the al-Hawiqa district heavily with their guns. Private hospitals are closed and people are afraid to send the wounded to state facilities because they are infested with secret police."