Syria Fires on Protesters, Slays 7 as Holiday Begins

Syrian security forces killed seven people today as they opened fire to disperse thousands of protesters rallying against the regime on the first day of a Muslim holiday that marks the end of Ramadan. Activists say security forces fired at protesters in the southern province of Daraa, in the central city of Homs, and in Damascus and its suburbs following morning prayers on the start of Eid al-Fitr, a three-day holiday.

Six protesters were killed in Daraa, including a 13-year-old boy, and one in Homs. Amateur videos posted by activists online showed fired-up protesters calling for the downfall of the regime and execution of the president. Some called for international protection of Syrian civilians. Banners read "Eid is when the regime goes" and "We are being killed every day." (More Syria stories.)