It is the first clear condemnation issued by the Security Council, which includes longstanding allies of Syria such as Russia.

The statement was adopted over the fears of some members that any action could lead to Libya-style intervention.

It comes as the Syrian army attacks Hama, a centre of opposition protest, with reports of much loss of life.

Dozens of people are believed to have been killed in the action against Hama, with residents saying tanks have shot their way into Assi (Orontes) Square, in the centre of the city of 800,000 people.

Human rights groups say at least 140 people have been killed in the Syrian unrest since Sunday, mainly in Hama, adding to a civilian death toll believed to be more than 1,600 since March.

Protesters have vowed to rally every evening during the holy month of Ramadan, after nightly prayers.

Late on August 3, there were reports of large demonstrations in several Syrian cities.

Activists said that 50,000 people demonstrated in the eastern city of Deir al-Zour, 20,000 in Duma, north of Damascus, and 40,000 in Homs.

At least four people were killed when troops fired on protesters in Damascus, near the southern city of Deraa, and in the central town of Palmyra.

On August 4, Syria's Sana news agency said that President Bashar al-Assad had issued a decree authorising a multi-party system, apparently ending decades of monopoly on power by the Baath party.