Syrian troops in the city of Hama have advanced deeper in to the city taking up new positions. The move comes a day after 24 people were killed by Syrian forces on the first day of Ramadan.

The troop presence is thought to be a preventive measure to stop protests during Ramadan. During the month large crowds of Muslims gather for prayer, the government fears these could turn in to large protests.

Since protests began in March against President Bashar Assad's regime, 1700 civilians have been killed activists say.

The Syrian government disputes the number and blames foreign conspirators for the turmoil.

Directed by Joseph Kahn
Written by Joseph Kahn, Mark Palermo
Cast Josh Hutcherson, Dane Cook, Jesse Heiman
Produced by Ricahrd Weager, Mary Ann Tanedo, Bob Abramoff

The 25th anniversary of the Festival Nuits D’Afrique is turning out to be one of the most party oriented ones that I have ever witness. Over the years, I have attended and taken part in some of the festivals; they were all entertaining and fun, but the 2011 edition of the festival stands out as a marriage of new musical ideas from all the bands that I have seen so far.

News read by Tommy Marshall and produced by Sofia Gay.

Stories written by Chris Hanna, Jacqueline Di Bartolomeo and Sofia Gay.