Syrian Rebels Retreating From Besieged District

Syrian rebels say they are making a "tactical retreat" from the besieged district of Baba Amr in Homs because of worsening humanitarian conditions.

A statement by the Baba Amr rebels brigade says the decision was made to spare some 4,000 civilian residents who insisted on staying in their homes.

In the statement issued Thursday, the rebels warn government troops against carrying out "revenge" attacks targeting civilians. It said any such action will "cost the regime dearly."

Burhan Ghalioun, head of the opposition Syrian National Council, told a news conference in Paris that rebels have relocated from some areas but said the resistance in Baba Amr "is still strong."

The government vowed Wednesday to "cleanse" Baba Amr from "gunmen."