I spoke with Monocle 24's The Briefing at lunchtime about the Syrian airstrike on the town of Azaz that killed at least 45 people. To consider the political and military significance, I noted other events such as the insurgents' discovery of the regime's Iran-supplied drones and their capture of anti-aircraft guns and a portable air-defence system.
The take-away line? The regime, in an increasingly difficult position, is stepping up its bombardment, but the insurgents have better weapons. That brings the prospect of a more intense conflict this autumn.
Given that, we chatted about the prospect of an internationally-supported no-fly zone. We also discussed developments in Lebanon, in the context of kidnappings of opposition members by the al-Moqdad family, and the possibility of spiralling conflict.
To listen, go to the homepage of The Briefing, click Play on the 16/8 programme, and start at the 7:37 mark.