Another day, another report of bloodshed in Syria. As the violence of the Assad regime entrenches, there is a danger it is losing its shock factor, becoming part of the background hum of global affairs. But the international community must not become desensitised.

The brutality is both appalling, and it is escalating. There are reportedly some 30 more dead since Saturday, after the government turned its gun boats on the port city of Latakia. While the options may be limited, that is no excuse for inaction. Foreign powers from Russia to Britain to Saudi Arabia must keep up the pressure. We must use every lever we have – including targeted sanctions – to make President Assad stop.