Syrian opposition leaders strike unity deal

Activist preacher Moaz al-Khatib is the only candidate to head a new Syrian opposition umbrella group which factions trying to bring down president Bashar al Assad agreed to form yesterday, a delegate involved in choosing the leader said.

Opposition leaders struck a deal yesterday under intense international pressure to form a new coalition.

“At least for the president there is only one candidate — Moaz al-Khatib,” said one opposition source taking part in closed-door discussions.