The top U.N. human rights official is calling on the international community to take immediate measures to protect civilians in Syria, saying the death toll in seven months of anti-government protests has risen above 3,000.

U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay said Friday those killed in the Syrian government's crackdown included at least 187 children. Pillay added that 100 people have died the last 10 days alone.

Pillay warned that Syria's ruthless repression and killings could drive the country into full-blown civil war. She did not clarify what actions she believed the international community should take.

Syria has used military force to crush months of opposition protests calling for the ouster of Syrian President Bashar. Earlier this month, activists said security forces arrested up to 3,000 people in a series of raids to track down dissident soldiers.