Syria's first lady on Gaza

Syria's first lady about the suffering in Gaza; Israel's military denies targeting civilians.

President Bashar al-Assad of Syria on the Gaza conflict

President Bashar al-Assad of Syria has warned that Israel's campaign against Gaza will fuel extremism and terrorism in the Arab and Muslim world.

"The effect of war is more dangerous than war... sowing seeds of extremism and terror around the region," Mr Assad said in an exclusive BBC interview.

He also said a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza could only be achieved if conditions set by both sides were met.

Officials say the fighting has killed nearly 1,000 Gazans and 13 Israelis.

Earlier, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon pledged to redouble his efforts to secure a durable and sustainable ceasefire. More