Summarizing the latest updates in the rapidly changing Syria story.

From Bloomberg

U.S. ACTIONS:

Fifth destroyer heads to eastern Mediterranean

U.S. makes case at UN Security Council meeting held at Russia’s request; members decline to comment as they leave

President Obama speaks with Germany’s Merkel; leaders agree Syrian use of gas was “severe breach of international law,” Merkel spokesman says

State Dept spokeswoman Marie Harf tells reporters consultation “incredibly important,” yet “we make our own decisions in our own timeline”

Obama administration on track to release public intelligence report this week, White House spokesman Josh Earnest says

White House to hold unclassified briefing for lawmakers this evening as members of Congress insist they must approve action

Speaking on condition of anonymity, 3 U.S. officials say intercepted Syrian communications provide no ironclad evidence that Assad or members of his inner circle ordered the attack



SYRIAN ACTIONS:

Syrians Move Weapons Ahead of Possible Attack: Reuters Link

Assad tells Syrians he will defend them against “threats of direct aggression” in comments reported on state television



INTERNATIONAL ACTIONS:

Putin, Merkel back efforts to find diplomatic solution

U.K. releases assessment showing it’s “highly likely” that Syrian govt was behind mass killing of civilians; govt says exceptional measures possible without UN backing

Fabius says France preparing Syria response with partners

UN inspectors to leave Syria by early Aug. 31, report to UN Secretary-General

Harper says Canada has no plans for military mission



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