Reprieve for UN observers

The UN Security Council has unanimously approved a resolution extending the 300-strong observer force in Syria for 30 days, leaving open the possibility of an extension if the Syrian regime stops using heavy weapons.

The resolution gives a possible lifeline to the unarmed observers who were sent to Syria three months ago to monitor a cease-fire and the implementation of international envoy Kofi Annan’s six-point peace plan.

The mandate of the observer force had been set to expire yesterday.

Russia’s ambassador to the UN had said he would veto the original British-drafted resolution on the mission and support a rival Pakistani text that would have extended the mission for 45 days. But after closed-door consultations, all 15 council members reached agreement on a revised British text.

EDITH LEDERER