Since violence first erupted in Syria last spring, the city of Homs has been a flashpoint between government forces and pro-democracy demonstrators. More recently, military defectors have taken up armed resistance against snipers who patrol the streets. Entire neighborhoods have shut down. Business has ground to a halt. 

Worldview first spoke with Hanna, a local dentist originally from Homs, back in April. Earlier this week, her second cousin — a 68-year-old U.S. citizen — was gunned down after leaving his mosque in Homs. Hanna believes he’s the first American citizen to die in the Syrian uprising. She gives her perspective on the deteriorating political climate in Syria.

Note: Hanna is using a pseudonym here to protect family back in Syria.