Malaysia to close Syria embassy

Malaysia's government says it is shutting its embassy in Syria and evacuating more than 130 students and diplomats because of the escalating civil war.

Foreign Minister Anifah Aman says the Malaysian ambassador to Damascus and four other embassy officials will be temporarily withdrawn after 128 students are brought back to Kuala Lumpur. Officials are also urging other Malaysians in Syria to leave immediately. A ministry statement late Saturday said 10 Malaysian expatriates are registered with the embassy.  (AP)