A Syrian opposition website reports that Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad mid-month ordered a halt to training in military units following widespread digestive disorders among the troops, particularly among new recruits.
Military sources rejected claims that foreign intelligence forces were involved in the outbreak of the epidemic.
One soldier reported on harsh conditions in military courses – including only one shower allowed every two weeks, an allocation of half a liter of water per day, and minimal food.
The website reported that th Syrian military numbers 600,000 troops and that its budget is 35% of the country's budget, which is about $6 billion excluding arms deals.
Source: Nidaasyria.org, June 27, 2010
