During that visit, the UN chief took time out to once again tell Syria to stop the violence against civillians. In a phone call with President Bashar al-Assad, Ban urged him to take the situation seriously. The Arab League and Saudi Arabia have also denounced the violence, with the Saudis recalling their ambassador in protest. This as fresh gunfire was reported Monday morning, suggesting the crackdown continues. Activists say at least 66 civilians were killed Sunday in attacks on anti-government protesters in two cities.