Just viewed Assad's rare speech to the Syrian Parliament 11am, Doha time (Al Jazeera) today. He appears to be defiant, perhaps in denial, still sticking to his story about terrorist elements in the country, ignoring the fact that nobody believes him and showing it - international govts had expelled Syrian diplomats from their embassies. He adamantly does not accept responsibility for the massare at Houla, notwithstanding there was info that those involved were pro-govt forces.

Having said all that, it is also true that the Opposition is very splintered and not sufficiently united - "Syrian opposition leader resigns, says group divided The head of the Syrian National Council, Burhan Ghalioun, stepped down on Thursday, saying the opposition group was splintered between Islamist and secular activists and had failed to live up to the sacrifices of the Syrian people."

This is a deadlock that does not lead to any resolution while the Syrian people continue to suffer needlessly.

From earlier news, viewed that the Syrian crisis is escalating beyond the point of no return. The Arab League's Foreign Ministers' meeting in Doha yesterday mentioned that this is the turning point.

We are hoping and praying for the best. Whatever happens, God's will be done.