‘Friends of Syria’ to meet in Rome – report

Citing "diplomatic sources", the news agency ANSA said the meeting, which would come at a time of heightened tension in the war-torn country, would probably occur "at the level of foreign affairs ministers". It did not give further details.

The Italian government did not confirm the report.

The 11 countries that make up the Friends of Syria grouping include the United States and France, which are both mulling military action against the Syrian regime. Britain, Turkey and Qatar are also members.

Italy insists that any military intervention in Syria must be sanctioned by the United Nations.

Italians have also protested against military action in the past few days.