Journalists reported killed in Syria – live updates

Claim of 500 defectors joining Free Syrian Army
Last day of Mubarak’s trial in Egypt
Nine reported dead in Yemen election violence

8.55am: Two foreign journalists have been killed in Homs today, according to an unconfirmed report from al-Jazeera citing activists in the city.

It says one American and one French journalist were with activists in a building which was shelled this morning. A photographer was reportely injured.

8.51am: (all times GMT) Welcome to Middle East Live. Here is a roundup of the situation this morning:

Syria

• The US says it “may have to consider additional measures” regarding Syria, though it does not want to take actions that would “contribute to the further militarisation” of the country. Activists said more than 100 people were killed in Syria yesterday.

• A video has been posted on the internet in support of claims that 500 government troops have defected to the Free Syrian Army.

Yemen

• Nine people are reported killed during yesterday’s single-candidate presidential election in Yemen. Turnout was low in the south of the country where separatist sentiment is strong.

Egypt

• Today is the last day of ex-president Mubarak’s trial in Egypt, though no verdict is expected until later.

from Brian Whitaker, Haroon Siddique

via http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/middle-east-live/2012/feb/22/syria-yemen