Syria's Assad to address nation 'very soon'

DAMASCUS: President Bashar al-Assad, who is facing unprecedented domestic pressure as protests and clashes erupt across Syria, will address the nation "very soon," his adviser told AFP on Sunday.

"President Assad will address his people very soon to explain the situation and clarify and elaborate on the reforms that have already been decided," Buthaina Shaaban told AFP.

More than 30 people have been confirmed killed in a spiral of violence that has gripped Syria since protests broke out on March 15, with demonstrators demanding major reforms.