>r p a fierce gu or out nep out near a h international reporters are staying. reberebels say they re making r gains, a a reuters ease report says forces were seen advancing. gadhafi s government says the rebellion is failing. a government. embattled bashar al assad is giving an interview to state-run television this hour to talk about his country s future. among other things, he is expected to discuss reforms and political and economic pressure from the west. al assad faces growing calls to end his brutal five-month crackdown on opposition protesters. the families of two american hikers sentenced to prison in iran are holding out hope for leniency. iran has handed down eight-year sentencing for josh fattal and shane bower. they were accused of spying. in a statement their fame say, quote, we appeal to the authorities in iran to show compassion and allow them to return home to our families without delay. prosecute rors are asking the woman to meet with them tomorrow.