Syrian city of Deraa hit by deadly clashes

At least 19 protesters have been killed during anti-government rallies in the southern Syrian city of Deraa after the security forces opened fire on crowds chanting pro-democracy slogans.



Residents near the Al Omari mosque said they had seen at least 13 bodies in that area and more wounded.



However, officials said only a member of the security forces and an ambulance worker had been killed.



Deraa has been a focus of unrest since anti-government protests erupted across Syria in mid-March.



The protests have posed an unprecedented challenge to President Bashar al-Assad's 11-year rule.



Thousands are reported to have staged rallies following Friday prayers in Deraa.