BEIRUT - Syrian tanks have sealed off the entrances to a restive northern town ahead of what activists say will be an all-out assault in the area near the Turkish border. The military operation in the mostly deserted town of Jisr Al Shughour follows government claims that more than 120 officers and security personnel were killed by “armed groups” operating in the area. Syrian state television said on Saturday that army units have arrested several leaders of the alleged armed groups in Jisr Al Shughour. Syrian authorities are determined to crush an uprising against President Bashar Assad that started in mid-March. Human rights groups say more than 1,300 people have died in the government crackdown. Activists said 36 people were killed Friday when security forces opened fire during protests across the country.
