Syrian rebels say battles continue around Deraa

Gunfire echoes on the streets of Deraa, Syria.

Footage uploaded to a social networking site reportedly shows anti-government protesters facing off against armed security forces.

It also shows hundreds gathered and chanting slogans against the Syrian army in other parts of the country.

Rebels say the government has intensified its push to root out resistance in cities around the nation.

Reuters could not independently verify the videos or claims of renewed fighting.

Meanwhile in Homs, Syria's state news agency says cleanup efforts have begun after weeks of bloody bombardment.

Video shows men and women huddled in underground bunkers, while men use backhoes to clear away rubble.

President Bashar al-Assad is accused of killing thousands of opposition supporters in a year-long crackdown on protesters.

Assad's refusing to cede office, instead planning for multi-party elections under a new constitution within three months.

Jessica Gray, Reuters