An advance team of Arab League officials has arrived in Syria to prepare for monitors who will oversee a peace plan sponsored by the regional organisation.
But, more deaths were reported just hours before the team arrived.
Witnesses say Syrian soldiers started to attack homes in Deir Az Zor and there have been reports that tank units were trying to take control of parts of the city. Gunfire has also been reported in the city of Homs.
Tarek Bazley reports.
