Syrian security forces have reportedly opened fire on pro-democracy protesters in the seaside town of Latakia.

Activists say Syrian tanks and armored personal carriers rolled into the port city early Saturday amid heavy gunfire. There are reports of mass anti-government demonstrations taking place in the city.

On Friday, witnesses said Syrian security forces shot and killed at least 19 people across the country, as forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad intensify their violent suppression of opposition protests, despite growing international condemnation.

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on Friday urged countries giving Syria economic and political support to “get on the right side of history.” She also called on countries to stop buying Syrian oil and gas.

Clinton says she is continuing diplomatic talks aimed at putting political pressure on Mr. Assad's government. She again insisted the Syrian president has “lost the legitimacy to lead,” but still stopped short of calling for Mr. Assad to step down, saying that calls for his removal should be part of an international effort.

Meanwhile, Turkish President Abdullah Gul called on Mr. Assad to implement reforms before it is too “late.” Turkish media reports relayed Mr. Gul's comments on Friday.

The Syrian government has defended its crackdown, saying it is combating armed gangs and terrorists.

The United Nations Security Council plans to meet next Thursday to consider further action against the Syrian government. Earlier this month, the Security Council issued a statement condemning Syria for attacks on civilians and widespread human rights violations.

U.S. officials have estimated that more than 2,000 people have been killed in the months-long effort to suppress dissent in the country.

Details of events in Syria are difficult to independently verify because the government allows very few foreign news reporters into the country and restricts their movements.