(CNN) -- Intense fighting between Syrian rebels and government forces erupted Monday in the Damascus neighborhood of al-Mazzeh, the site of embassies, security buildings and the homes of some members of the president's inner circle, opposition activists said.At least 18 members of the security forces were injured, according to the opposition Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The clashes were the fiercest so far in the Syrian capital, and the closest to its security centers since the start of the Syrian uprising last year, the group said.
A spokesman for the Free Syrian Army confirmed the rebels' involvement in the clashes. The Syrian government has not released an official statement.
The fighting in Damascus came as rebels made apparent gains against President Bashar al-Assad's forces elsewhere in the country. Read More
