Syrian rebels consider uneasy alliance with al-Qaeda

08/17/12: The Hill reports Syrian rebels engaged in brutal fighting against government troops near the city of Aleppo could turn to al-Qaeda for support if Western powers do not take military action against President Bashar al-Assad.  “We don't want al-Qaeda here, but if nobody else helps us, we will make an alliance with them,” rebel commander Abu Ammar said Thursday.  “And you can bet if al-Qaeda comes [to Aleppo] the city will become their base within three months.”  The US has so far refused to arm the rebels directly, amid concerns that heavy weapons funneled into Syria could later be turned against American or allied troops by al-Qaeda fighters.