Syrian Attacks Against Civilians Continue, Says Opposition

Syrian authorities showed no signs of ceasing attacks against civilians Thursday, opposition activists said, despite a new pact brokered by Arab nations designed to end the bloodshed.

At least 25 people were killed nationwide, 22 of them in the flashpoint city of Homs, according to the Local Coordination Committees, which is an umbrella group demanding the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad.

It is also unclear if Assad is willing to engage in dialogue with opponents. The Syrian government insists it is committed to reform and blames armed terrorists for the unrest that has swept the nation since March.

The two biggest cities in Syria, Damascus and Aleppo, have seen massive pro-Assad rallies in recent weeks. Observers say Assad still enjoys considerable popular support, especially among the business elite and religious and ethnic minority groups.

The opposition has called for mass mobilization throughout Syria on Friday, the traditional day for demonstrations, which typically follow Muslim midday prayers.

Check some photos of the demonstration.