Davids Diary: Syria violence spikes, violence speaks for itself
This is the first of many diary entries to come from my time in Syria covering the uprising violence and Bashar Al-Assad’s attempt to regain control of enemy territory.
Last week, I finally arrived in Damascus whereas I was almost immediately taken into a new safe-place by a few civilians I had made friendly nature with before arriving. My communication lines were unavailable due to low batteries, so I was unable to cover my latest piece while here in the city.
I managed to flee to Damascus before the big-attack that killed some 200 people just a weeks ago. Thankfully, I wasn’t harmed in the situation however I’ve witnessed more death in these two weeks than I have ever seen in my life.
I was forced to leave my work clothes back in the other city, as I was instructed it’d be best and more safe for me to dress as a Syrian resident rather than an outsider; and I did.
Tonight — however I leave for Beirut Lebanon an area mainly rebels continue to control to get a better angle of the violence rather than stuck in a secluded area unable to snap photographs of what is happening.
No worries friends, I remain safe. I managed to get my own set of ‘rebels’ that offered to shield my travels throughout Syria using their firepower. I’m also equipped with bulletproof vests and smoke grenades. (How cool I feel having those).
Date of next entry: Monday 23 July 2012.
Related articles
- Daily News reporter David Ross vanishes in Syria (bazaardaily.com)
- Turkey Appeals To Russia As Syrian Violence Spikes (voanews.com)
- Russia defends veto as violence escalates in Syria (itv.com)
- West’s claims that Russia’s responsible for Syria violence unacceptable – official (english.ruvr.ru)
- PA fears for Palestinians caught in Syria violence – Jerusalem Post (jpost.com)
I’m so happy your okay. I can’t believe you actually took this job though, this is so dangerous. I hope you make it out alive not many have.
I have so much respect for David. So brave for doing his job even though it is so dangerous. Kudos to you young man, not many 20 year old’s would even DARE step foot on Syrian soil.