The UN Security Council has condemned the Syrian government for a deadly crackdown on protesters. The council statement “condemns the widespread violations of human rights and the use of force against civilians by the Syrian authorities”. The statement was adopted over the fears of some members that any action could lead to Libya-style intervention. It comes as the Syrian army attacks Hama, a centre of opposition protest, with reports of much loss of life. Dozens of people are believed to have been killed in the action against Hama, with residents saying tanks have now shot their way into Assi (Orontes) Square, in the centre of the city of 800,000 people. Human rights groups say at least 140 people have been killed in the Syrian unrest since Sunday, mainly in Hama, adding to a civilian death toll believed to be more than 1,600 since March.