Former UN envoy says US 'moving' towards Syria action

The United Nations has called an end to its observer mission in Syria, days before its mandate was due to expire.

Former US Ambassador to the UN Zalmay Khalilzad says the US must be involved with the political developments there and should support the formation of a presidential envoy for Syria.

Speaking to the BBC's Katty Kay, Mr Khalilzad added that he would support efforts by the West to arm Syrian rebels - a safer alternative, he suggests, than allowing extremists to step into the role - and says the US is "moving in that direction".