Syrian opposition rejects Annan plan if Assad stays

According to diplomatic sources at the United Nations, Annan's proposal, aimed at ending the 16-month conflict in Syria, does not stipulate Assad's resignation, although it does say the unity government could not include figures who jeopardise stability.

"The proposal is still murky to us but I can tell you that if it does not clearly state that Assad must step down, it will be unacceptable to us," said Samir Nashar, an executive member of the international Syrian National Council.