Syrian state television says President Bashar al-Assad has replaced his defense minister, as Damascus comes under increasing pressure from its Arab neighbors over the country's deadly crackdown against an opposition uprising.

The state television report said Mr. Assad appointed the Syrian army chief of staff, General Dawoud Rajha, as the new defense minister Monday, replacing General Ali Habib. It is the most significant change to the Syrian government since nationwide protests against Mr. Assad's autocratic rule began in March.

Bahrain and Kuwait said Monday they have joined Saudi Arabia in recalling their ambassadors from Damascus for consultations on Syria's use of force against the protesters. Saudi King Abdullah announced the recall of his envoy on Sunday and demanded a stop to what he called Mr. Assad's “killing machine.”

Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed al-Sabah said top diplomats of the six nation Gulf Cooperation Council will meet soon to discuss the situation in Syria.

The ambassador recalls follow the bloodiest week of the five-month uprising. Rights activists say Syrian troops backed by tanks have killed hundreds of people in the central town of Hama, the eastern town of Deir el-Zour and other areas in recent days.

In Cairo, the head of the influential Sunni Islam institution Al-Azhar said Monday the Syrian government must end the bloodshed immediately — calling it a tragedy that has gone too far. Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb also called on Syrian leaders to respond to the “legitimate demands” of the people.

Arab League Secretary-General Nabil al-Arabi said the 22-nation bloc is not expected to take any drastic measures against Syria, but will engage in what he called “step-by-step persuasion” to resolve the crisis through negotiations.

Syrian activists and residents said government artillery fire resumed Monday in Deir el-Zour, where security forces backed by armored vehicles have been carrying out an assault since Sunday. Syria's government denied any assault was underway in the town.

On Sunday, President Assad defended his violent crackdown on dissidents, saying it is a national duty to deal with what he called “outlaws” who cut off roads and, in his words, “terrorize” people. Speaking during talks with Lebanon's visiting foreign minister, Mr. Assad also said Syria is on a path to reform.