The UN said it is using newly opened land routes to expand food deliveries to areas around the Syrian city of Raqqa, where US-backed forces are battling Islamic State militants in their self-declared capital.

At least 13 people have been killed in a string of bomb attacks inside government territory in Syria, according to state media.

Tens of thousands of Syrian government supporters poured into the streets today to protest against an Arab League vote to suspend the country’s membership, as Turkey sent planes to evacuate diplomatic staff and their families after a night of attacks on embassies.

Syrian security forces have opened fire on protesters in the capital and other major cities, killing at least eight people as tens of thousands gathered for huge anti-government rallies, witnesses said.

Syria’s Cabinet resigned en masse today hoping to help quell the wave of protests that is now threatening President Bashar Assad’s 11-year rule.