Both Gov’t And Lebel Forces Accused Of Atrocities In Longstanding Syrian Conflict

In this Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2012 file photo, Rebels clean their weapons and check ammunition at their base on the outskirts of Aleppo, Syria. Through mid-2012, rebel power grew and Assad’s army ramped up its response. Relentless government shelling leveled neighborhoods and killed hundreds. Regular reports emerged of mass killings by the regime or thugs loyal to it, pushing more Syrians toward armed struggle. The government, which considers the opposition terrorist gangs backed by foreign powers, denied any role, and does not respond to requests for comment on its military. The rebels, too, were accused of atrocities.

In this Thursday, Nov. 15, 2012 file photo, Syrian rebels rest during clashes with Syrian troops on Aleppo.

In this Saturday, Nov. 17, 2012 file photo, a Syrian fighter fires his weapon during clashes with army forces on the outskirts of Idlib, Syria. <AP Photo/Khalil Hamra, File>