The UN-Arab League joint
special envoy to Syria, Kofi
Annan has announced he is
leaving his post.
In a news conference, he said
the Syrian people "desperately
need action" but criticised the
UN Security Council for "finger-
pointing and name-calling".
Mr Annan authored a six-point
peace plan for Syria which was
intended to bring an end to the
fighting.
But the plan was never fully
adhered to by either side and
the violence has continued to
escalate.
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-
moon said it was "with deep
regret" that he announced Mr
Annan would not renew his
mandate when it expires at the
end of August.