NBC News — Syrian activists are marking the one year anniversary against embattled President Bashar Al-Assad. The celebrations come as government forces continue their brutal crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrators. Despite several major setbacks, rebels say they still believe they will succeed.

Government forces have regained control of Homs after a month long bombardment of the city. The United Nations says some 8000 civilians have died in Syria's crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrators, activists claim that number is much higher.