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Syrian rebels are under pressure to accept the UN-backed peace plan, after Damascus rubber-stamped the deal. It includes appeals for a ceasefire - but no calls for President Assad to step down - something the opposition and Washington have been calling for. The US is pushing for the rebels to unite, with some factions rallying behind the Syrian National Council at a conference in Turkey. RT talks to journalist and author Afshin Rattansi, who's long been covering events in the region.

[23 March 2012] Syria crisis: global and domestic transformations - Middle East Today - Presstv - English As security in Syria deteriorates with fears of more bombings, continuous fighting between the national army and rebel forces, the United Nations special envoy continues his efforts to create an agreement with the consensus of all parties. Where can these efforts reach in light of the Syrian opposition\'s refusal of political solution? Some groups have even called for military intervention. Will there be Arab and western efforts to exert more political and even military pressure on Assad? Will the West leave the resolution to countries like Russia and China in order to avoid a possible Cold War?

[05 May 2012] Syria and Annan plan - Middle East Today - English .With the wave of bombings still engulfing Syria, many fear that the job of UN observers to the country will not be as effective as it should. The UN peace keeping chief has accused both the government and armed groups in Syria of violation the UN-Arab League peace plan. In this edition of the show we ask: Was Kofi Annan\'s plan dead upon arrival?