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Syrian civilians, one draped in the revolutionary flag, walk through the ruins of a destroyed home in Aleppo, Syria, Thursday, Jan. 3, 2013. The area is immersed in a Syrian civil war that the United Nations estimates has killed more than 60,000 people since the revolt against President Bashar al-Assad began in March, 2011.Andoni Lubaki/The Associated Press

A summary of what you need to know today, compiled by The Globe's news desk on March 18, 2013.

Syrian opposition to establish rival government

Syria's main opposition coalition is beginning a push today to form an interim government to provide services to people living in parts of the country now controlled by rebels, The Associated Press reports. Twelve candidates have been nominated for prime minister, including Osama Kadi, the coalition's economic adviser, who is from London, Ont.

Ottawa challenges assisted suicide ruling

The federal government's appeal of a landmark B.C. court ruling on assisted suicide begins today at the B.C. Court of Appeal. Ottawa is seeking to overturn a ruling that made it possible for terminally ill people to end their lives with the help of doctors.

Investigations into Quebec jail break

Investigations are beginning into two prisoners' daring helicopter escape from a Quebec jail in St-Jérôme, Que., yesterday. Four suspects have been arrested and are to appear in court today to face charges.

Hadfield to answer reporters' questions

Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield is give his first news conference since becoming commander of the International Space Station last week. The veteran astronaut tweets often about his five-month mission, which began in December.

Retired soldier to be sentenced in deadly accident

Retired warrant officer Paul Ravensdale is to be sentenced today by a military judge in the death of a soldier killed in a training accident in Afghanistan. Mr. Ravensdale was found guilty last month of four charges in the death of Corporal Josh Baker.

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