NEW : Activist group says at least 12 dead on Friday . The death toll from the violence has risen to 13 as of Saturday morning, according to a statement released by the group. Activist reports clashes between military defectors and security . Obama administration officials testify before a House panel .
NEW : Activist group says at least 12 dead on Friday . The death total in Syria includes at least 187 children , the United Nations says . Activist reports clashes between military defectors and security . Obama administration officials testify before a House panel .