Blast targets Damascus court

According to Syrian state television, a so-called "terrorist" bomb exploded outside the country's highest court in Damascus on Thursday.

There were reports of a loud explosion, followed by a thick cloud of black smoke that rose over the Syrian capital.

The court building appeared intact as firefighters doused nearby cars - and as ambulances arrived at the scene.

It was unclear whether anyone was hurt or killed in the blast.

The blast went off in a car park beside the courthouse, and it reportedly damaged at least 20 cars.

An uprising against President Bashar al-Assad that began with peaceful street protests 16 months ago quickly devolved into a bloody conflict, after his forces continually attacked demonstrators.

Rebel fighters are increasingly targeting symbols of a state they see as brutal, oppressive and autocratic.

Travis Brecher, Reuters