Syrian tanks have entered the northern city of Hama and have killed at least 100 civilians in clashes between government troops and protesters.

The tanks entered Hama on Sunday 31 July, and local reports claim that the army has signalled it will not accept large-scale unrest during the holy month of Ramadan, which begins on 1 August.

Three civilians were also killed in Harak, southern Deraa region, on Sunday and six casualties were reported in the eastern city of Deir al-Zour, according to reports from within Syria. This followed the death of three people in Deir al-Zour on Saturday, who were shot by security forces for throwing stones at a military convoy, claim local reports.

Activists in Syria say that more than 1,500 civilians and 350 security personnel have been killed in Syria since the pro-democracy protests began in Mid-March.