The head of the Arab League delegation in Syria has said the situation in the flashpoint city of Homs was "reassuring so far".

Sudanese General Mustafa Dabi, who is leading the 150-strong delegation to the country, said, "yesterday was quiet and there were no clashes. We did not see tanks but we did see some armoured vehicles. But remember this was only the first day and it will need investigation. We have 20 people who will be there for a long time."

Activists and human rights groups have voiced their concerns that the Sudanese general is an appropriate choice.

They claim his own defiance of war crimes tribunal relating to Darfur means he may not display balanced judgement.

But the Arab League has said it is confident Lt Gen Dabi's experience will enable him to assess the situation in Syria properly, SkyNews reported.