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Source: http://www.washingtoninstitute.org/templateC06.php?CID=1610
Syria Teeters on the Edge
(Washington Institute for Near East Policy) David Schenker and Andrew J. Tabler - Reports surfaced this week that the shabbiha (literally "ghosts") - armed plainclothes Alawite regime supporters - have been deployed against protesters. These groups have also reportedly been used to enforce discipline among the ranks of Syria's military and security services. Washington will undoubtedly be hesitant to cast its lot with Syria's historically divided opposition. Nevertheless, it will be important for the administration to be on record regarding the consequences for the regime should the atrocities continue.