Pro-Assad rally marks revolt anniversary

Flag-waving supporters of President Bashar al-Assad took to the streets of Syrian cities on Thursday.

The orchestrated show of loyalty comes on the first anniversary of an increasingly bloody uprising against his rule.

State television showed thousands of people rallying in central Damascus, bearing national flags and portraits of the president.

Rallies were also reported in Syria's second city Aleppo, and a number a smaller towns across the nation.

The celebrations come as the Syrian army continues its offensive against rebels and civilians, regaining Homs and sending tanks into the southern flashpoint town of Deraa.

The country is also facing increasing international isolation, while the latest UN figures suggest over 8,000 people have been killed in the past year.

On Wednesday, Saudi Arabia and Italy announced they were withdrawing their ambassadors from the capital.

Travis Brecher, Reuters