At least eight people, including five children, were killed Tuesday in Russian airstrikes on a school in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-regime-widens-control-over-idlib-fuelling-exodus-monitor-269591">northwest Syria</a> sheltering displaced civilians, according to a war monitor.

The strikes targeted the village of Jubass near the town of Saraqeb in southern Idlib province, killing civilians sheltering in and near a school, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

An uptick in attacks around Saraqeb over the past 24 hours has driven thousands of people out, the Observatory added.

The heightened regime and Russian bombardments on southern Idlib since December 16 have forced tens of thousands of vulnerable people to flee their homes, according to the United Nations.

Nearly 80 civilians have been killed by airstrikes and artillery attacks over that same period, according to the Observatory, which puts the number of displaced in recent weeks at more than 40,000.&nbsp;

The UN has called for "immediate de-escalation" and warned of further mass displacement if the violence continues in Syria's last major opposition bastion.

But Russian and regime airstrikes have continued to pummel the region as Damascus loyalists advanced on the ground.&nbsp;

Since Thursday, regime forces have taken control of dozens of towns and villages in southern Idlib following battles with jihadists.

The clashes have killed 260 fighters on both sides, according to the Observatory.

Regime forces are now less than four kilometres (two miles) from the strategic city of Maaret al-Numan, the head of the Britain-based monitor, Rami Abdel Rahman said.

Civilian exodus

Fearing further advances, thousands of Maaret al-Numan's residents have fled.&nbsp;

"I did not expect to have to leave," said Abu Ahmad, poking his head out of the pick-up truck driving him and his family towards a camp for the displaced.&nbsp;

"This is my home, this is where I grew up," the father of ten said.

Idlib is dominated by the country's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.&nbsp;

It hosts some three million people including many displaced by years of violence in other parts of Syria.&nbsp;

The Damascus regime, which now controls 70 per cent of Syria, has repeatedly vowed to take back the area.

Backed by Moscow, Damascus launched a blistering offensive against Idlib in April, killing around 1,000 civilians and displacing more than 400,000 people.

Despite a ceasefire announced in August, the bombardment has continued, killing hundreds of civilians and fighters.

The latest spike in violence comes after Russia and China on Friday vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that would have extended for a year cross-border aid deliveries to four million Syrians, many of them in Idlib.&nbsp;

The move raised fears that UN-funded assistance could stop entering opposition-held parts of Syria from January unless an alternative agreement is reached.

Syria's war has killed over 370,000 people and displaced millions since beginning in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

At least eight people, including five children, were killed Tuesday in Russian airstrikes on a school in northwest Syria sheltering displaced civilians, according to a war monitor.

At least eight people, including five children, were killed Tuesday in Russian airstrikes on a school in northwest Syria sheltering displaced civilians, according to a war monitor. The strikes targeted the village of Jubass near the town of Saraqeb in southern Idlib province, killing civilians sheltering in and near a school, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. An uptick in attacks around Saraqeb over the past 24 hours has driven thousands of people out, the Observatory added. The heightened regime and Russian bombardments on southern Idlib since December 16 have forced tens of thousands of vulnerable people to flee their homes, according to the United Nations. Nearly 80 civilians have been killed by airstrikes and artillery attacks over that same period, according to the Observatory, which puts the number of displaced in recent weeks at more than 40,000. The UN has called for "immediate de-escalation" and warned of further mass displacement if the violence continues in Syria's last major opposition bastion. But Russian and regime airstrikes have continued to pummel the region as Damascus loyalists advanced on the ground. Since Thursday, regime forces have taken control of dozens of towns and villages in southern Idlib following battles with jihadists. The clashes have killed 260 fighters on both sides, according to the Observatory. Regime forces are now less than four kilometres (two miles) from the strategic city of Maaret al-Numan, the head of the Britain-based monitor, Rami Abdel Rahman said. Civilian exodus Fearing further advances, thousands of Maaret al-Numan's residents have fled. "I did not expect to have to leave," said Abu Ahmad, poking his head out of the pick-up truck driving him and his family towards a camp for the displaced. "This is my home, this is where I grew up," the father of ten said. Idlib is dominated by the country's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. It hosts some three million people including many displaced by years of violence in other parts of Syria. The Damascus regime, which now controls 70 per cent of Syria, has repeatedly vowed to take back the area. Backed by Moscow, Damascus launched a blistering offensive against Idlib in April, killing around 1,000 civilians and displacing more than 400,000 people. Despite a ceasefire announced in August, the bombardment has continued, killing hundreds of civilians and fighters. The latest spike in violence comes after Russia and China on Friday vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that would have extended for a year cross-border aid deliveries to four million Syrians, many of them in Idlib. The move raised fears that UN-funded assistance could stop entering opposition-held parts of Syria from January unless an alternative agreement is reached. Syria's war has killed over 370,000 people and displaced millions since beginning in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

Russian airstrikes kill 8 civilians in Syria's Idlib, including 5 children

In the latest update from Syria the Bashar al-Assad army is gaining considerable ground in the northern city. They have captured dozens of cities since the operation started last week. #SyrianArmy #Idlib #Syria

WION Dispatch: Syrian army gains ground in IDLIB, surrounds Turkish Army post

In the coming days, the Syrian Arab Army will likely capture the remaining towns and villages southeast of Ma’arat Al-Nu’man, as they prepare to storm the city.

Syrian Army captures strategic town in Idlib

Turkey cannot handle a fresh wave of migrants from Syria, President Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday, warning that European countries will feel the impact of such an influx if violence in Syria’s northwest is not stopped. #Turkey #RecepErdogan #Turkeymigrants #Idlib

80,000 Syrian migrants marching to Turkey, says Recep Erdogan

Regime forces have seized dozens of towns and villages in northwest Syria from jihadists following days of violent clashes, fuelling an exodus of civilians, a war monitor said Sunday.&nbsp;

The fresh advances in Idlib province bring regime loyalists closer to capturing one of the largest urban centres in Syria's last major opposition bastion, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

"This push is an attempt to get closer to Maaret al-Numan," Observatory head Rami Abdul Rahman told AFP.

Residents of the southern Idlib town flooded out of the area fearing further advances, an AFP correspondent there said.

The Observatory said more than 30,000 people had fled the flashpoint area in southern Idlib in recent days.

Abu Akram, a resident, said rescue workers and local relief groups were struggling to get families out.

"Everybody is working at full capacity but they can't handle such a large number of people," the father of five told AFP after he couldn't find a vehicle to drive his own family further north.&nbsp;

The jihadist-dominated Idlib region hosts some three million people including many displaced by years of violence in other parts of Syria.&nbsp;

The Damascus regime has repeatedly vowed to take back the area and bombardment has continued despite a ceasefire announced in August.

Heightened regime and Russian bombardment on the Maaret al-Numan region since December 16 has forced tens of thousands of vulnerable people to flee their homes, according to the United Nations.

The UN has called for "immediate de-escalation" and warned of further mass displacement if the violence continues.&nbsp;

"Nowhere is safe. If we stay inside our homes, or if we flee outside, we will die either way," said Abu Akram.

Damascus loyalists have since Thursday been locked in battles with jihadists and allied rebels, seizing a total of 25 towns and villages from their control, according to the Observatory.

Four days of fighting has killed 103 militants as well as 71 regime loyalists, bringing the total toll to more than 170 dead on both sides, added the monitor, which is based in Britain and relies on an extensive network inside Syria.&nbsp;

The Idlib region is controlled by the country's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.&nbsp;

Pro-government forces launched a blistering offensive against the region in April, killing around 1,000 civilians and displacing more than 400,000 people from their homes.

Syria's war has killed over 370,000 people and displaced millions since beginning in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

Regime forces have seized dozens of towns and villages in northwest Syria from jihadists following days of violent clashes, fuelling an exodus of civilians, a war monitor said Sunday.

Regime forces have seized dozens of towns and villages in northwest Syria from jihadists following days of violent clashes, fuelling an exodus of civilians, a war monitor said Sunday. The fresh advances in Idlib province bring regime loyalists closer to capturing one of the largest urban centres in Syria's last major opposition bastion, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. "This push is an attempt to get closer to Maaret al-Numan," Observatory head Rami Abdul Rahman told AFP. Residents of the southern Idlib town flooded out of the area fearing further advances, an AFP correspondent there said. The Observatory said more than 30,000 people had fled the flashpoint area in southern Idlib in recent days. Abu Akram, a resident, said rescue workers and local relief groups were struggling to get families out. "Everybody is working at full capacity but they can't handle such a large number of people," the father of five told AFP after he couldn't find a vehicle to drive his own family further north. The jihadist-dominated Idlib region hosts some three million people including many displaced by years of violence in other parts of Syria. The Damascus regime has repeatedly vowed to take back the area and bombardment has continued despite a ceasefire announced in August. Heightened regime and Russian bombardment on the Maaret al-Numan region since December 16 has forced tens of thousands of vulnerable people to flee their homes, according to the United Nations. The UN has called for "immediate de-escalation" and warned of further mass displacement if the violence continues. "Nowhere is safe. If we stay inside our homes, or if we flee outside, we will die either way," said Abu Akram. Damascus loyalists have since Thursday been locked in battles with jihadists and allied rebels, seizing a total of 25 towns and villages from their control, according to the Observatory. Four days of fighting has killed 103 militants as well as 71 regime loyalists, bringing the total toll to more than 170 dead on both sides, added the monitor, which is based in Britain and relies on an extensive network inside Syria. The Idlib region is controlled by the country's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Pro-government forces launched a blistering offensive against the region in April, killing around 1,000 civilians and displacing more than 400,000 people from their homes. Syria's war has killed over 370,000 people and displaced millions since beginning in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

Syria regime widens control over Idlib, fuelling exodus: Monitor

Violence In Syria's Idlib Region, Children Caught Up In The Fighting

Gravitas: Airstrikes in Syria kill 100, Children Caught up in the Fighting

Two days of clashes between regime forces and armed groups in Syria's last major opposition bastion have killed nearly 70 on both sides, undermining a months-long ceasefire agreement, a war monitor said Sunday.

The battles in the northwestern province of Idlib are "the most violent" there since a Russian-brokered ceasefire agreement went into effect in late August, said Rami Abdul Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Residents of affected villages fled north to escape the fighting, adding to the hundreds of thousands who have already flooded out of the province's violence-plagued south since fighting escalated earlier this year.

"I don't want to see my children trapped under rubble," said one of those driven from his home, Hafez, who escaped the flashpoint area along with his wife and three kids two days earlier.

On Sunday morning, clouds of smoke rose over the Maaret al-Numan region as warplanes pounded jihadists and allied rebels in positions they had recently recaptured from regime forces, said an AFP correspondent.

The Britain-based Observatory on Sunday put the death toll from fighting at 69 combatants since battles started the previous day.

At least 36 regime forces were among those killed.

'Cease-fire'

The Observatory said an attack led by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate on several regime positions had initially sparked the fighting.

Overnight, the Syrian army backed by Russian warplanes launched a counter-push to reclaim territory it had lost in the battles, the war monitor said.

Regime forces have since regained lost ground but violent clashes are ongoing, the Observatory and an AFP correspondent said.

Airstrikes on Sunday afternoon hit jihadist-run areas dozens of kilometres (miles) away from the main frontline, signalling a potential escalation, the correspondent said.&nbsp;

The Idlib region, home to around three million people including many displaced by Syria's eight-year civil war, is controlled by the country's former Al-Qaeda affiliate.

The Hayat Tahrir al-Sham jihadist alliance also controls parts of neighbouring Aleppo and Latakia provinces, with battles also currently taking place in the latter, according to the monitor. &nbsp;

The region is one of the last holdouts of opposition to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad who controls more than 70 per cent of the country, according to the Observatory.

Assad has repeatedly vowed to reclaim all of Syria, including Idlib, which he views as a "terrorist" holdout.

In August, government troops began a ground offensive that saw them retake several areas in southern Idlib, allowing them their first foothold in the region in years.

Assad, during a visit to the area in October, his first since the start of the eight-year war, said that defeating jihadists in the province was key to ending the conflict.

The other flashpoint

Between late April and the end of August, Idlib was pounded ceaselessly by Syrian soldiers backed by Russian airpower.

The Observatory estimates that nearly 1,000 civilians were killed in that period, and the UN says that more than 400,000 people were displaced.

A ceasefire announced by Russia in late August has reduced fighting, but airstrikes and clashes increased in November.&nbsp;

According to the Observatory, more than 160 civilians and more than 460 fighters, including regime forces, have been killed since the deal went into effect.

The Idlib front was the main focus of Syrian regime forces before Turkey in October launched an invasion of swaths of northeast Syria.

The operation against Kurdish forces who had controlled the region since 2012 paved the way for mass regime deployments in the area for the first time in seven years.

Syrian troops arrived in positions bordering Turkey as well as other parts of the northeast under a deal with Kurdish forces seeking protection from Ankara and its Syrian proxies.

An agreement between Russia and Ankara in October further cemented the deployment, tasking regime forces with ensuring the withdrawal of Kurdish fighters from the border region.

Turkey last month accused Russia and Damascus of failing to secure that objective, threatening further action against Kurdish groups.

The war in Syria has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it erupted in 2011. 
&nbsp;

Two days of clashes between regime forces and armed groups in Syria's last major opposition bastion have killed nearly 70 on both sides, undermining a months-long ceasefire agreement, a war monitor said Sunday.

Two days of clashes between regime forces and armed groups in Syria's last major opposition bastion have killed nearly 70 on both sides, undermining a months-long ceasefire agreement, a war monitor said Sunday. The battles in the northwestern province of Idlib are "the most violent" there since a Russian-brokered ceasefire agreement went into effect in late August, said Rami Abdul Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Residents of affected villages fled north to escape the fighting, adding to the hundreds of thousands who have already flooded out of the province's violence-plagued south since fighting escalated earlier this year. "I don't want to see my children trapped under rubble," said one of those driven from his home, Hafez, who escaped the flashpoint area along with his wife and three kids two days earlier. On Sunday morning, clouds of smoke rose over the Maaret al-Numan region as warplanes pounded jihadists and allied rebels in positions they had recently recaptured from regime forces, said an AFP correspondent. The Britain-based Observatory on Sunday put the death toll from fighting at 69 combatants since battles started the previous day. At least 36 regime forces were among those killed. 'Cease-fire' The Observatory said an attack led by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate on several regime positions had initially sparked the fighting. Overnight, the Syrian army backed by Russian warplanes launched a counter-push to reclaim territory it had lost in the battles, the war monitor said. Regime forces have since regained lost ground but violent clashes are ongoing, the Observatory and an AFP correspondent said. Airstrikes on Sunday afternoon hit jihadist-run areas dozens of kilometres (miles) away from the main frontline, signalling a potential escalation, the correspondent said. The Idlib region, home to around three million people including many displaced by Syria's eight-year civil war, is controlled by the country's former Al-Qaeda affiliate. The Hayat Tahrir al-Sham jihadist alliance also controls parts of neighbouring Aleppo and Latakia provinces, with battles also currently taking place in the latter, according to the monitor. The region is one of the last holdouts of opposition to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad who controls more than 70 per cent of the country, according to the Observatory. Assad has repeatedly vowed to reclaim all of Syria, including Idlib, which he views as a "terrorist" holdout. In August, government troops began a ground offensive that saw them retake several areas in southern Idlib, allowing them their first foothold in the region in years. Assad, during a visit to the area in October, his first since the start of the eight-year war, said that defeating jihadists in the province was key to ending the conflict. The other flashpoint Between late April and the end of August, Idlib was pounded ceaselessly by Syrian soldiers backed by Russian airpower. The Observatory estimates that nearly 1,000 civilians were killed in that period, and the UN says that more than 400,000 people were displaced. A ceasefire announced by Russia in late August has reduced fighting, but airstrikes and clashes increased in November. According to the Observatory, more than 160 civilians and more than 460 fighters, including regime forces, have been killed since the deal went into effect. The Idlib front was the main focus of Syrian regime forces before Turkey in October launched an invasion of swaths of northeast Syria. The operation against Kurdish forces who had controlled the region since 2012 paved the way for mass regime deployments in the area for the first time in seven years. Syrian troops arrived in positions bordering Turkey as well as other parts of the northeast under a deal with Kurdish forces seeking protection from Ankara and its Syrian proxies. An agreement between Russia and Ankara in October further cemented the deployment, tasking regime forces with ensuring the withdrawal of Kurdish fighters from the border region. Turkey last month accused Russia and Damascus of failing to secure that objective, threatening further action against Kurdish groups. The war in Syria has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it erupted in 2011.

Nearly 70 dead in Syria regime clashes with Idlib terrorists

The Russian military said the United States carried out airstrikes in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-strikes-stop-in-syrias-idlib-after-truce-announced-246820/amp">Syria's Idlib </a>de-escalation zone in breach of previous agreements, inflicting numerous casualties and endangering a ceasefire, Russian news agencies reported on Sunday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-announces-government-ceasefire-in-syrias-idlib-from-saturday-246696">Russia announces government ceasefire in Syria's Idlib from Saturday</a>

TASS news agency, citing the Russian defence ministry, said the United States had forewarned neither Russia nor Turkey about the strikes. It added that Russian and Syrian warplanes had not carried out raids in the region recently.

On Saturday the US Central Command, part of the Department of Defense, had said that US forces struck an al Qaeda facility north of Idlib in Syria in an attack aimed at the organisation's leadership.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said airstrikes pounded bases belonging to jihadist fighters in Syria's northwest. The UK-based monitor said the strikes, near the town of Maarat Misrin in Idlib province, killed more than 40 militants, including some commanders.

Interfax news agency cited Russian military as saying that the United States carried out airstrikes in the region between Maarat Misrin and Kafer Haya in Idlib on Saturday.

US airstrikes have hit a number of Nusra commanders in northwest Syria in recent years.

Russia's defence ministry on Friday said that Syrian government forces would carry out a unilateral ceasefire in the de-escalation zone on Saturday morning.

The Russian military said the United States carried out airstrikes in Syria's Idlib de-escalation zone in breach of previous agreements, inflicting numerous casualties and endangering a ceasefire, Russian news agencies reported on Sunday.

The Russian military said the United States carried out airstrikes in Syria's Idlib de-escalation zone in breach of previous agreements, inflicting numerous casualties and endangering a ceasefire, Russian news agencies reported on Sunday. Also read: Russia announces government ceasefire in Syria's Idlib from Saturday TASS news agency, citing the Russian defence ministry, said the United States had forewarned neither Russia nor Turkey about the strikes. It added that Russian and Syrian warplanes had not carried out raids in the region recently. On Saturday the US Central Command, part of the Department of Defense, had said that US forces struck an al Qaeda facility north of Idlib in Syria in an attack aimed at the organisation's leadership. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said airstrikes pounded bases belonging to jihadist fighters in Syria's northwest. The UK-based monitor said the strikes, near the town of Maarat Misrin in Idlib province, killed more than 40 militants, including some commanders. Interfax news agency cited Russian military as saying that the United States carried out airstrikes in the region between Maarat Misrin and Kafer Haya in Idlib on Saturday. US airstrikes have hit a number of Nusra commanders in northwest Syria in recent years. Russia's defence ministry on Friday said that Syrian government forces would carry out a unilateral ceasefire in the de-escalation zone on Saturday morning.

Russia says US strikes Syria's Idlib, puts ceasefire at risk: Reports

Air strikes on Syria's northwestern Idlib region stopped on Saturday, a war monitor said, after the government agreed to a &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-announces-government-ceasefire-in-syrias-idlib-from-saturday-246696">Russian-backed ceasefire</a> following four months of deadly bombardment.

"There are no warplanes in the sky and airstrikes have stopped," said Rami Abdul Rahman, the head of the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.&nbsp;

Clashes between regime loyalists and insurgents on the edges of the anti-government bastion have also ceased after a unilateral ceasefire by Syrian regime forces went into effect at 6:00 am (0300 GMT), he said.

Artillery and rocket attacks continued however despite the deal, he added.

Syrian regime ally Russia on Friday announced that Damascus government forces would observe a new ceasefire from Saturday morning in Idlib.

It said the truce aimed "to stabilise the situation" in Idlib, one of the last holdout of opposition to forces of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

The Syrian government agreed to the deal, state news agency SANA said.

But the army "reserves the right to respond to violations" by jihadists and allied rebel groups, it added, citing a Syrian military source.

The truce is the latest Russian-led effort to avert what the United Nations has described as one of the worst humanitarian "nightmares" in Syria's eight-year conflict.

Only a few hours before it went into effect, the Observatory reported a Russian airstrike on a health facility in Aleppo's western countryside.&nbsp;

It said the attack after midnight wounded several health workers and put the medical centre out of service.

The UN has said that 43 health facilities and 87 educational facilities have been impacted by fighting since April.

The Idlib region is home to some three million people.

Most of the province and parts of neighbouring Aleppo and Latakia provinces are controlled by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a jihadist group led by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate.&nbsp;

Russia-backed regime forces have been pressing an offensive against the region despite a deal with rebel backer Turkey in September last year to protect the area.&nbsp;

Stepped up bombardment by Damascus and Moscow since the end of April has displaced 400,000, the UN says, and killed more than 950 civilians, according to the Observatory.

The flare-up has emptied entire towns and villages in northern Hama and southern Idlib of their residents, according to the UN.&nbsp;

Almost half of the displaced are living in camps, reception centres or in the open air, it added.

Earlier this month, Damascus scrapped a similar truce agreement only three days after it went into effect, accusing rebels and jihadists of targeting a Russian airbase.

Assad, who now controls around 60 per cent of the country, has vowed to reclaim the rest, including Idlib.

The Syrian conflict has killed more than 370,000 people and driven millions from their homes since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests in 2011.

Air strikes on Syria's northwestern Idlib region stopped on Saturday, a war monitor said, after the government agreed to a Russian-backed ceasefire following four months of deadly bombardment.

Air strikes on Syria's northwestern Idlib region stopped on Saturday, a war monitor said, after the government agreed to a Russian-backed ceasefire following four months of deadly bombardment. "There are no warplanes in the sky and airstrikes have stopped," said Rami Abdul Rahman, the head of the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Clashes between regime loyalists and insurgents on the edges of the anti-government bastion have also ceased after a unilateral ceasefire by Syrian regime forces went into effect at 6:00 am (0300 GMT), he said. Artillery and rocket attacks continued however despite the deal, he added. Syrian regime ally Russia on Friday announced that Damascus government forces would observe a new ceasefire from Saturday morning in Idlib. It said the truce aimed "to stabilise the situation" in Idlib, one of the last holdout of opposition to forces of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The Syrian government agreed to the deal, state news agency SANA said. But the army "reserves the right to respond to violations" by jihadists and allied rebel groups, it added, citing a Syrian military source. The truce is the latest Russian-led effort to avert what the United Nations has described as one of the worst humanitarian "nightmares" in Syria's eight-year conflict. Only a few hours before it went into effect, the Observatory reported a Russian airstrike on a health facility in Aleppo's western countryside. It said the attack after midnight wounded several health workers and put the medical centre out of service. The UN has said that 43 health facilities and 87 educational facilities have been impacted by fighting since April. The Idlib region is home to some three million people. Most of the province and parts of neighbouring Aleppo and Latakia provinces are controlled by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a jihadist group led by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate. Russia-backed regime forces have been pressing an offensive against the region despite a deal with rebel backer Turkey in September last year to protect the area. Stepped up bombardment by Damascus and Moscow since the end of April has displaced 400,000, the UN says, and killed more than 950 civilians, according to the Observatory. The flare-up has emptied entire towns and villages in northern Hama and southern Idlib of their residents, according to the UN. Almost half of the displaced are living in camps, reception centres or in the open air, it added. Earlier this month, Damascus scrapped a similar truce agreement only three days after it went into effect, accusing rebels and jihadists of targeting a Russian airbase. Assad, who now controls around 60 per cent of the country, has vowed to reclaim the rest, including Idlib. The Syrian conflict has killed more than 370,000 people and driven millions from their homes since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests in 2011.

Air strikes stop in Syria's Idlib after truce announced

The situation in the Syrian province of Idlib is unacceptable for Ankara, which is taking measures to protect its interests, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told journalist on Friday.

Earlier today, the country’s Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that Russia had guaranteed the safety of Turkish observation posts in Idlib.

"There have been attacks on our No 9 and No 10 observation posts. After we had discussed this situation with esteemed [Russian President Vladimir] Putin, necessary warnings were given. The situation in Idlib is unacceptable for us, we are taking every measure to protect our interests," Erdogan said.

He added that a wave of refugees from Idlib, fleeing from war, had begun moving toward Turkey.

A long-discussed truce entered into force in Idlib in early August. However, Syrian leadership said it would resume its military operation in northwestern Syria if Ankara failed to implement its obligations, one of which was to ensure that terrorists retreat 20 kilometres (12 miles) away from the demilitarized zone in Idlib.

Syrian forces resumed their operation on August 5 after the militants failed to comply with the ceasefire agreement brokered by Russia and Turkey.

Damascus has been protesting Turkey's presence in Syria, calling it illegal. Turkey, on the other hand, paints it as necessary to the country’s fight against Kurdish separatists.

The situation in the Syrian province of Idlib is unacceptable for Ankara, which is taking measures to protect its interests, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told journalist on Friday.

The situation in the Syrian province of Idlib is unacceptable for Ankara, which is taking measures to protect its interests, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told journalist on Friday. Earlier today, the country’s Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that Russia had guaranteed the safety of Turkish observation posts in Idlib. "There have been attacks on our No 9 and No 10 observation posts. After we had discussed this situation with esteemed [Russian President Vladimir] Putin, necessary warnings were given. The situation in Idlib is unacceptable for us, we are taking every measure to protect our interests," Erdogan said. He added that a wave of refugees from Idlib, fleeing from war, had begun moving toward Turkey. A long-discussed truce entered into force in Idlib in early August. However, Syrian leadership said it would resume its military operation in northwestern Syria if Ankara failed to implement its obligations, one of which was to ensure that terrorists retreat 20 kilometres (12 miles) away from the demilitarized zone in Idlib. Syrian forces resumed their operation on August 5 after the militants failed to comply with the ceasefire agreement brokered by Russia and Turkey. Damascus has been protesting Turkey's presence in Syria, calling it illegal. Turkey, on the other hand, paints it as necessary to the country’s fight against Kurdish separatists.

Turkish President Erdogan calls situation in Idlib 'unacceptable'

Watch Top news of the day in WION Playlist, 26th August 2019

Watch WION Playlist, 26th August 2019

Syrian government forces backed by Russia are involved in heavy clashes in and around Syria's last rebel bastion of Idlib against armed-Assad groups. Watch the full video to know more.

Syrian airstrikes hit Turkish military convoy in Idlib

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-killed-as-syria-regime-forces-battle-jihadists-243898">Jihadists</a> and allied rebels withdrew from a key area of northwestern Syria Tuesday as President Bashar al-Assad's forces pressed an offensive against the jihadist-run Idlib region, a war monitor said.

The town of Khan Sheikhun on the region's southern edge has been a key goal for the government as it lies on the main highway through Idlib province connecting the capital Damascus with second city Aleppo.

After eight years of civil war, the Idlib region on the border with Turkey is the last major stronghold of opposition to the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-four-months-of-strikes-on-syrias-hold-out-idlib-244154"> Russia</a>-backed Damascus government.

Since January, it has been administered by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham alliance, which is led by jihadists from Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate.

The region of some three million people was supposed to be protected by a buffer zone deal signed last year by Moscow and rebel backer Ankara, but the government and Russian forces have subjected it to heavy bombardment since late April,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/clashes-kill-70-combatants-in-northwest-syria-report-242094"> killing more than 860 civilians</a>.

And in recent weeks, regime forces have inched forward, nibbling away at the southern edges of the bastion.

In the early hours of Tuesday, anti-Assad fighters pulled back from Khan Sheikun and the countryside to its south, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.&nbsp;

The withdrawal means an important Turkish observation point in the nearby town of Morek, as well as a string of surrounding villages, are effectively surrounded by government forces, Observatory chief Rami Abdel Rahman told AFP.

All roads leading out of the area are either controlled by government forces or within range of their guns, he said.

But an HTS spokesman denied its forces had withdrawn from the countryside around Morek, saying they had regrouped in the south of Khan Sheikhun after heavy bombardment. 
&nbsp; 
'Clear warning'&nbsp;

Khan Sheikhun -- which has been emptied of its residents in the face of the air strikes and shelling of recent months -- lies on the main Damascus-Aleppo highway, which has long been a key government objective.

On Monday, a Turkish military convoy of around 50 armoured vehicles crossed the border into Idlib and headed south along the highway.

The deployment drew condemnation from Damascus while Ankara alleged an airstrike had targeted its troops.

The convoy was at a standstill just north of Khan Sheikhun on Tuesday, after government forces cut the road on into the town.

An AFP correspondent said airstrikes and machine gunfire from government helicopters peppered the road leading north to the town of Maaret al-Noman on Tuesday.

Pro-government newspaper Al-Watan said Monday morning's strike targeted a rebel vehicle scouting the road in front of the Turkish convoy.

"The Syrian army in its own way sent a clear message to the Turkish regime by forcing convoys sent by Ankara to help the terrorists in Khan Sheikhun to come to a halt," it said.

It was a "clear warning against any Turkish attempt to resuscitate the terrorists".

The war in Syria has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests in 2011.

Successive rounds of UN-backed peace talks have failed to stem the bloodshed, and in recent years been overshadowed by a parallel negotiations track led by Russia and Turkey, dubbed the Astana process.

&nbsp;'Pressure Turkey'?&nbsp;

Under the September deal, Turkish troops were to monitor a planned buffer zone around Idlib after jihadists had withdrawn from it -- but the pullout failed to materialise.

Analyst Sam Heller said the government's latest advance had shown Turkish monitoring points might complicate its recapture of territory, but could not prevent it.

"It's not yet clear what Damascus and Moscow will do next," said the expert with the International Crisis Group think-tank.

It is unclear "if they will seize the opportunity to take more areas, or stop to consolidate their new positions and put some pressure on Ankara" to implement its side of the buffer zone deal, he told AFP.

Fellow analyst Samuel Ramani said the government's accusation of Turkish support for its opponents could provide a "pretext for further Syrian army incursions".

"It allows Damascus to make Turkey, not the Syrian army, appear like the chief violators of the deconfliction agreement," he told AFP.

But "for Russia, holding the Astana coalition together is a chief priority," he said.

Aid organisations have warned repeatedly that any large-scale government offensive to retake Idlib would spark one of the worst humanitarian crises of the war.

Jihadists and allied rebels withdrew from a key area of northwestern Syria Tuesday as President Bashar al-Assad's forces pressed an offensive against the jihadist-run Idlib region, a war monitor said.

Jihadists and allied rebels withdrew from a key area of northwestern Syria Tuesday as President Bashar al-Assad's forces pressed an offensive against the jihadist-run Idlib region, a war monitor said. The town of Khan Sheikhun on the region's southern edge has been a key goal for the government as it lies on the main highway through Idlib province connecting the capital Damascus with second city Aleppo. After eight years of civil war, the Idlib region on the border with Turkey is the last major stronghold of opposition to the Russia-backed Damascus government. Since January, it has been administered by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham alliance, which is led by jihadists from Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate. The region of some three million people was supposed to be protected by a buffer zone deal signed last year by Moscow and rebel backer Ankara, but the government and Russian forces have subjected it to heavy bombardment since late April, killing more than 860 civilians. And in recent weeks, regime forces have inched forward, nibbling away at the southern edges of the bastion. In the early hours of Tuesday, anti-Assad fighters pulled back from Khan Sheikun and the countryside to its south, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. The withdrawal means an important Turkish observation point in the nearby town of Morek, as well as a string of surrounding villages, are effectively surrounded by government forces, Observatory chief Rami Abdel Rahman told AFP. All roads leading out of the area are either controlled by government forces or within range of their guns, he said. But an HTS spokesman denied its forces had withdrawn from the countryside around Morek, saying they had regrouped in the south of Khan Sheikhun after heavy bombardment. 'Clear warning' Khan Sheikhun -- which has been emptied of its residents in the face of the air strikes and shelling of recent months -- lies on the main Damascus-Aleppo highway, which has long been a key government objective. On Monday, a Turkish military convoy of around 50 armoured vehicles crossed the border into Idlib and headed south along the highway. The deployment drew condemnation from Damascus while Ankara alleged an airstrike had targeted its troops. The convoy was at a standstill just north of Khan Sheikhun on Tuesday, after government forces cut the road on into the town. An AFP correspondent said airstrikes and machine gunfire from government helicopters peppered the road leading north to the town of Maaret al-Noman on Tuesday. Pro-government newspaper Al-Watan said Monday morning's strike targeted a rebel vehicle scouting the road in front of the Turkish convoy. "The Syrian army in its own way sent a clear message to the Turkish regime by forcing convoys sent by Ankara to help the terrorists in Khan Sheikhun to come to a halt," it said. It was a "clear warning against any Turkish attempt to resuscitate the terrorists". The war in Syria has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests in 2011. Successive rounds of UN-backed peace talks have failed to stem the bloodshed, and in recent years been overshadowed by a parallel negotiations track led by Russia and Turkey, dubbed the Astana process. 'Pressure Turkey'? Under the September deal, Turkish troops were to monitor a planned buffer zone around Idlib after jihadists had withdrawn from it -- but the pullout failed to materialise. Analyst Sam Heller said the government's latest advance had shown Turkish monitoring points might complicate its recapture of territory, but could not prevent it. "It's not yet clear what Damascus and Moscow will do next," said the expert with the International Crisis Group think-tank. It is unclear "if they will seize the opportunity to take more areas, or stop to consolidate their new positions and put some pressure on Ankara" to implement its side of the buffer zone deal, he told AFP. Fellow analyst Samuel Ramani said the government's accusation of Turkish support for its opponents could provide a "pretext for further Syrian army incursions". "It allows Damascus to make Turkey, not the Syrian army, appear like the chief violators of the deconfliction agreement," he told AFP. But "for Russia, holding the Astana coalition together is a chief priority," he said. Aid organisations have warned repeatedly that any large-scale government offensive to retake Idlib would spark one of the worst humanitarian crises of the war.

Anti-Assad fighters withdraw from key area of northwest Syria

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday expressed "profound worry" about the bombing of Idlib in talks with Vladimir Putin, but the Russian leader insisted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-four-months-of-strikes-on-syrias-hold-out-idlib-244154">Moscow backed Syrian military</a> actions against "terrorists" in the province.&nbsp;

Addressing Putin at a joint press conference at the Bregancon fortress on France's Mediterranean coast, Macron said it was "vital" that a ceasefire deal agreed in the Russian resort of Sochi in September last year be implemented.

"I must express our profound worry about the situation in Idlib. The population in Idlib is living under bombs, children are being killed. It's vital that the ceasefire agreed in Sochi is put into practice," he said.

The deal outlined a truce in the northwestern region where airstrikes and shelling by the government and its Russian ally has killed hundreds of people since April, many of them civilians.

The Idlib region, which is home to some three million people, was supposed to be protected from a massive regime offensive by a buffer zone deal signed between Russia and Turkey in September last year.&nbsp;

Some Turkish troops were deployed to patrol the planned buffer zone, but it was never fully implemented as jihadists refused to withdraw from the planned demilitarised cordon. Since late April, the regime and Russian forces have upped their deadly bombardment there.

But Putin said Russia, which entered the conflict in 2015 in support of the regime of President Bashar al-Assad, backed the Syrian army's operations in Idlib, which is the last major jihadist-run bastion in the war-torn country.

"We support the efforts of the Syrian army... to end these terrorist threats" in Idlib, Putin told Macron after his remarks on the ceasefire.

"We never said that in Idlib terrorists would feel comfortable," he added.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday expressed "profound worry" about the bombing of Idlib in talks with Vladimir Putin, but the Russian leader insisted Moscow backed Syrian military actions against "terrorists" in the province.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday expressed "profound worry" about the bombing of Idlib in talks with Vladimir Putin, but the Russian leader insisted Moscow backed Syrian military actions against "terrorists" in the province. Addressing Putin at a joint press conference at the Bregancon fortress on France's Mediterranean coast, Macron said it was "vital" that a ceasefire deal agreed in the Russian resort of Sochi in September last year be implemented. "I must express our profound worry about the situation in Idlib. The population in Idlib is living under bombs, children are being killed. It's vital that the ceasefire agreed in Sochi is put into practice," he said. The deal outlined a truce in the northwestern region where airstrikes and shelling by the government and its Russian ally has killed hundreds of people since April, many of them civilians. The Idlib region, which is home to some three million people, was supposed to be protected from a massive regime offensive by a buffer zone deal signed between Russia and Turkey in September last year. Some Turkish troops were deployed to patrol the planned buffer zone, but it was never fully implemented as jihadists refused to withdraw from the planned demilitarised cordon. Since late April, the regime and Russian forces have upped their deadly bombardment there. But Putin said Russia, which entered the conflict in 2015 in support of the regime of President Bashar al-Assad, backed the Syrian army's operations in Idlib, which is the last major jihadist-run bastion in the war-torn country. "We support the efforts of the Syrian army... to end these terrorist threats" in Idlib, Putin told Macron after his remarks on the ceasefire. "We never said that in Idlib terrorists would feel comfortable," he added.

Idlib ceasefire must be respected, Macron to Putin

The Syrian regime and its ally Russia have for nearly four months ramped up bombardment of the last major jihadist-run bastion in the country after eight years of brutal conflict.

The Syrian regime and its ally Russia have for nearly four months ramped up bombardment of the last major jihadist-run bastion in the country after eight years of brutal conflict. On Sunday, following fierce battles with jihadists and rebels, pro-regime forces entered the key town of Khan Sheikhun in northwestern Idlib province for the first time since they lost control of it in 2014. According to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor, the strikes pummelling Idlib have claimed more than 860 civilian lives since late April. The UN says more than 400,000 people have been displaced. Here is some background. Jihadist stronghold Strikes by the regime and Russia pick up after the powerful Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) jihadist alliance, led by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate, takes control of the area on January 2019. A major escalation begins in late April after clashes and strikes since February had already killed more than 200 civilians, according to the UN. Bordering rebel backer Turkey, the region under HTS control covers nearly all of Idlib province and parts of neighbouring Aleppo, Hama and Latakia provinces. It hosts some three million people. Escalation On April 26, Russia and the regime's other main ally Iran pledge along with Turkey to cooperate to "ultimately eliminate" HTS. After Russian raids on April 26-27 kill around 15 civilians, the UN warns Moscow to abide by its commitment to "avoid large-scale military offensives" on the region. Russia denies targeting civilians. 'Humanitarian disaster' By early May the strikes have forced 150,000 people to flee and knocked 12 hospitals and 10 schools out of action, the UN says. Britain, France, the United States, and eight other countries at the UN Security Council warned on May 10 of a "potential humanitarian catastrophe". On May 17, Amnesty International accuses the regime and Russia of a "deliberate and systematic assault" on hospitals. Banned weapons The US says on May 22 there are indications the Syrian government used chemical weapons in Idlib. France says it has similar information. Neither offered proof. On June 3, Human Rights Watch accuses the regime and Russia of using "internationally banned" weapons in attacks on civilians. They include cluster munitions and large air-dropped "barrel bombs", it says. No, let up After days of deadly violence, a new flare-up starts on June 15 when at least 45 people, including 10 civilians are killed in airstrikes and clashes. Five days later regime bombardment kills another 20 civilians. Strikes on July 21 killed 18 civilians including seven children, among them a young citizen journalist Anas al-Dyab, who was a member of the White Helmets rescue group and also contributed to AFP. The following day, regime and Russian airstrikes kill 50 people, many at a vegetable market in Maaret al-Numan. Inching closer The regime resumes military operations against the region on August 5, scrapping a ceasefire that had held for four days. The Syrian army accuses jihadists of launching rockets on the Hmeimim airbase west of the bastion, causing "great human and material losses" nearby. On August 11 the regime seizes the town of Al-Habeet on the edge of Idlib, after clashes that left more than 130 fighters dead. On August 14, jihadists down a regime plane and capture the pilot, a first since the escalation in April, according to the Observatory. At the same time, regime forces wage fierce battles with jihadists and rebels to try to take back the town of Khan Sheikhun. On August 18 they enter the town and set their sights on a highway that connects government-held Damascus with the northern city of Aleppo, which the regime retook from rebels in December 2016. A day later Damascus condemns the deployment of a Turkish military convoy towards Khan Sheikhun.

Russia, Syria ramp up bombing campaign on Idlib

Pro-regime forces were locked in heavy fighting with insurgents Sunday near a jihadist-run town in northwestern Syria, leaving dozens of combatants dead, a war monitor said.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../clashes-kill-70-combatants-in-northwest-syria- report-242094"> "fierce clashes"</a> between loyalist forces, jihadists and allied rebels were taking place one kilometre (0.6 miles) west of Khan Sheikhun in Idlib province.

The latest fighting broke out overnight Saturday to Sunday and has already<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../syria-at-least-17-killed-in-airstrikes-in-idlib- 243724"> killed</a> at least 45 jihadists and allied rebels as well as 17 members of the pro-regime forces, the Britain-based monitor said.

The town of Khan Sheikhun lies on a key highway coveted by the regime.

The road runs through <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../syria-regime-gains-ground-in-deadly-idlib-push -monitor-242164">Idlib</a>, connecting government-held Damascus with the northern city of Aleppo, which was retaken by loyalists from rebels in December 2016.

Pro-regime forces are deployed around three kilometres from the road and have been advancing over the past few days in a bid to encircle Khan Sheikhun from the north and the west and seize the highway.

On Sunday they retook the village of Tel al-Nar and nearby farmland northwest of Khan Sheikhun "and were moving close to the highway," Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman said.

But their advance from the east was being slowed down due to "a ferocious resistance" from jihadists and allied rebels.

Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) controls most of Idlib province as well as parts of the neighbouring provinces of Hama, Aleppo and Latakia.

A buffer zone deal brokered by Russia and Turkey last year was supposed to protect the Idlib region's three million inhabitants from an all-out regime offensive, but it was never fully implemented.

Regime and Russian airstrikes and shelling since late April have killed more than 860 civilians, according to the Observatory, which relies on sources inside Syria for its information.&nbsp;

On Sunday air strikes by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../syrian-army-takes-strategic-town-from-rebels-in -new-advance-242227">Syrian regime</a> and its ally Russia killed two people, including a child, in the south of Idlib, the Observatory said.

More than 1,400 insurgents and over 1,200 pro-regime forces have been killed since April, according to the monitor.

The violence has displaced more than 400,000 people, the United Nations says.

Khan Sheikhun was hit by a chemical attack that killed more than 80 people in April 2017, attributed to the Syrian regime by the UN and international experts.&nbsp;

In response, US President Donald Trump ordered strikes on the regime's key Shayrat airbase.&nbsp;

Now almost emptied of inhabitants, Khan Sheikhun sheltered almost 100,000 people before the start of the current military escalation, the majority displaced from Hama province.

"Many of these people have been displaced up to five times," the UN's regional spokesman for the Syria crisis, David Swanson, told AFP on Saturday.

Pro-regime forces were locked in heavy fighting with insurgents Sunday near a jihadist-run town in northwestern Syria, leaving dozens of combatants dead, a war monitor said.

Pro-regime forces were locked in heavy fighting with insurgents Sunday near a jihadist-run town in northwestern Syria, leaving dozens of combatants dead, a war monitor said. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said "fierce clashes" between loyalist forces, jihadists and allied rebels were taking place one kilometre (0.6 miles) west of Khan Sheikhun in Idlib province. The latest fighting broke out overnight Saturday to Sunday and has already killed at least 45 jihadists and allied rebels as well as 17 members of the pro-regime forces, the Britain-based monitor said. The town of Khan Sheikhun lies on a key highway coveted by the regime. The road runs through Idlib, connecting government-held Damascus with the northern city of Aleppo, which was retaken by loyalists from rebels in December 2016. Pro-regime forces are deployed around three kilometres from the road and have been advancing over the past few days in a bid to encircle Khan Sheikhun from the north and the west and seize the highway. On Sunday they retook the village of Tel al-Nar and nearby farmland northwest of Khan Sheikhun "and were moving close to the highway," Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman said. But their advance from the east was being slowed down due to "a ferocious resistance" from jihadists and allied rebels. Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) controls most of Idlib province as well as parts of the neighbouring provinces of Hama, Aleppo and Latakia. A buffer zone deal brokered by Russia and Turkey last year was supposed to protect the Idlib region's three million inhabitants from an all-out regime offensive, but it was never fully implemented. Regime and Russian airstrikes and shelling since late April have killed more than 860 civilians, according to the Observatory, which relies on sources inside Syria for its information. On Sunday air strikes by the Syrian regime and its ally Russia killed two people, including a child, in the south of Idlib, the Observatory said. More than 1,400 insurgents and over 1,200 pro-regime forces have been killed since April, according to the monitor. The violence has displaced more than 400,000 people, the United Nations says. Khan Sheikhun was hit by a chemical attack that killed more than 80 people in April 2017, attributed to the Syrian regime by the UN and international experts. In response, US President Donald Trump ordered strikes on the regime's key Shayrat airbase. Now almost emptied of inhabitants, Khan Sheikhun sheltered almost 100,000 people before the start of the current military escalation, the majority displaced from Hama province. "Many of these people have been displaced up to five times," the UN's regional spokesman for the Syria crisis, David Swanson, told AFP on Saturday.

'Dozens killed' as Syria regime forces battle jihadists

France&nbsp;called on Friday for an&nbsp;immediate&nbsp;end&nbsp;to&nbsp;fighting&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Syrian&nbsp;city&nbsp;of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-regime-gains-ground-in-deadly-idlib-push-monitor-242164">&nbsp;Idlib</a>, and the French foreign ministry added that it condemned in particular air strikes on refugee camps.

Over the past week, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/clashes-kill-70-combatants-in-northwest-syria-report-242094">Syrian&nbsp;army</a> has advanced towards the town of Khan Sheikhoun in&nbsp;Idlib&nbsp;in a pincer movement that could encircle the southern part of the rebel enclave.

The United Nations and aid agencies have warned of a new humanitarian catastrophe in northwest Syria.&nbsp;Syrian&nbsp;President Bashar al-Assad has managed to retake most of the country, crushing rebel enclaves in all the major cities and driving them from the south.

France called on Friday for an immediate end to fighting in the Syrian city of Idlib, and the French foreign ministry added that it condemned in particular air strikes on refugee camps.

France called on Friday for an immediate end to fighting in the Syrian city of Idlib, and the French foreign ministry added that it condemned in particular air strikes on refugee camps. Over the past week, the Syrian army has advanced towards the town of Khan Sheikhoun in Idlib in a pincer movement that could encircle the southern part of the rebel enclave. The United Nations and aid agencies have warned of a new humanitarian catastrophe in northwest Syria. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has managed to retake most of the country, crushing rebel enclaves in all the major cities and driving them from the south.

France calls for immediate end to fighting in Syrian city of Idlib

Syrian government airstrikes on a town in the country’s northwest killed at least 11 people. The airstrikes on the town of Ariha came as the government continued its deadly air campaign against the last rebel-held region in Syria.

Airstrike claims 11 lives in Syria

At least 12 civilians have been killed and scores have been injured in Syrian government airstrikes on a residential area in the northwestern province of Idlib. Watch this video to know more.

Syria: Airstrikes hit Idlib village market, 12 killed

Airstrikes and intense shelling continued to pound in Syria, as per reports 10 civilians have been killed by the Syrian government air raids. Watch this video to know more.

Violence in Syria's IDLIB continues

Fighting in IDLIB province intensifies

In Syria’s last rebel-held bastion, hospitals and crops are being deliberately hit amid a united nations security council standstill.. are Syrian civilians being left alone yet another time..?

The West Asia Post: Hospitals, crops are war targets

US President Donald Trump on Sunday told <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-says-onus-is-on-turkey-to-rein-in-militants-in-syrias-idlib-223225">Syria and Russia</a> to stop "bombing the hell" out of Syria's last jihadist stronghold Idlib.

"Hearing word that Russia, Syria and, to a lesser extent, Iran, are bombing the hell out of Idlib Province in Syria, and indiscriminately killing many innocent civilians. The World is watching this butchery. What is the purpose, what will it get you? STOP!" he said on Twitter shortly before he was to depart for a state visit to Britain.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Hearing word that Russia, Syria and, to a lesser extent, Iran, are bombing the hell out of Idlib Province in Syria, and indiscriminately killing many innocent civilians. The World is watching this butchery. What is the purpose, what will it get you? STOP!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1135332642851893250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

His comments came after Syrian NGOs on Friday decried international inaction in the face of mounting violence in the northwestern region.

As well as killing dozens of civilians, the recent bombardments by Syrian and Russian forces in northwest Syria have pushed 300,000 people towards Turkey's border, the NGOs said at a press conference in Istanbul.&nbsp;

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Friday that almost 950 people had been killed in the latest clashes in Idlib.&nbsp;

A September deal was supposed to avert a full-out regime offensive on the province and adjacent areas held by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.

But the jihadists have refused to leave the area, and the deal is on the verge of collapse as Syrian and Russian forces allied to Syria's President Bashar al-Assad ramp up air strikes and rocket fire.

Watch: Israel and Syria exchange fire amid soaring regional tensions

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-and-syria-exchange-fire-amid-soaring-regional-tensions-222197/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Iranian fighters and Hezbollah paramilitary forces are also stationed in Syria to back the Assad regime.

The worsening unrest in Idlib comes with tensions soaring between Iran and the United States.

The stand-off has been simmering since the US last year withdrew from the 2015 nuclear treaty Iran reached with major world powers.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday told Syria and Russia to stop "bombing the hell" out of Syria's last jihadist stronghold Idlib. "Hearing word that Russia, Syria and, to a lesser extent, Iran, are bombing the hell out of Idlib Province in Syria, and indiscriminately killing many innocent civilians.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday told Syria and Russia to stop "bombing the hell" out of Syria's last jihadist stronghold Idlib. "Hearing word that Russia, Syria and, to a lesser extent, Iran, are bombing the hell out of Idlib Province in Syria, and indiscriminately killing many innocent civilians. The World is watching this butchery. What is the purpose, what will it get you? STOP!" he said on Twitter shortly before he was to depart for a state visit to Britain. Hearing word that Russia, Syria and, to a lesser extent, Iran, are bombing the hell out of Idlib Province in Syria, and indiscriminately killing many innocent civilians. The World is watching this butchery. What is the purpose, what will it get you? STOP! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 2, 2019 × His comments came after Syrian NGOs on Friday decried international inaction in the face of mounting violence in the northwestern region. As well as killing dozens of civilians, the recent bombardments by Syrian and Russian forces in northwest Syria have pushed 300,000 people towards Turkey's border, the NGOs said at a press conference in Istanbul. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Friday that almost 950 people had been killed in the latest clashes in Idlib. A September deal was supposed to avert a full-out regime offensive on the province and adjacent areas held by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. But the jihadists have refused to leave the area, and the deal is on the verge of collapse as Syrian and Russian forces allied to Syria's President Bashar al-Assad ramp up air strikes and rocket fire. Watch: Israel and Syria exchange fire amid soaring regional tensions × Iranian fighters and Hezbollah paramilitary forces are also stationed in Syria to back the Assad regime. The worsening unrest in Idlib comes with tensions soaring between Iran and the United States. The stand-off has been simmering since the US last year withdrew from the 2015 nuclear treaty Iran reached with major world powers.

'STOP!' bombing, killing in Syria's Idlib: US President Donald Trump

Russia on Monday insisted&nbsp;that their military was targeting ''terrorists'' in Syria's Idlib after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stop-bombing-killing-in-syrias-idlib-us-president-donald-trump-223729">Trump asked them to stop ''this butchery.''</a>

"Terrorist fire in Idlib is of course unacceptable," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. "Measures are being taken to neutralise such firing positions."

Russia said that jihadists are targeting civilians and Moscow's troops in Idlib.

The jihadists have refused to leave the area, and a September deal, which was supposed to avert a full-out regime offensive on the province and adjacent areas held by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate Hayat Tahrir al-Sham is on the verge of collapse as Syrian and Russian forces allied to Syria's President Bashar al-Assad ramp up air strikes and rocket fire.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel strikes Syria after rockets fired at Golan

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-strikes-syria-after-rockets-fired-at-golan-223578/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Trump on Sunday asked Syria and Russia to stop "bombing the hell" out of Syria's last jihadist stronghold Idlib.

"Hearing word that Russia, Syria and, to a lesser extent, Iran, are bombing the hell out of Idlib Province in Syria, and indiscriminately killing many innocent civilians. The World is watching this butchery. What is the purpose, what will it get you? STOP!" Trump tweeted.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Friday that almost 950 people had been killed in the latest clashes in Idlib.

(With inputs from AFP)&nbsp;

Russia on Monday insisted that their military was targeting ''terrorists'' in Syria's Idlib after Trump asked them to stop ''this butchery.'' "Terrorist fire in Idlib is of course unacceptable," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Russia on Monday insisted that their military was targeting ''terrorists'' in Syria's Idlib after Trump asked them to stop ''this butchery.'' "Terrorist fire in Idlib is of course unacceptable," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. "Measures are being taken to neutralise such firing positions." Russia said that jihadists are targeting civilians and Moscow's troops in Idlib. The jihadists have refused to leave the area, and a September deal, which was supposed to avert a full-out regime offensive on the province and adjacent areas held by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate Hayat Tahrir al-Sham is on the verge of collapse as Syrian and Russian forces allied to Syria's President Bashar al-Assad ramp up air strikes and rocket fire. Watch: Israel strikes Syria after rockets fired at Golan Trump on Sunday asked Syria and Russia to stop "bombing the hell" out of Syria's last jihadist stronghold Idlib. "Hearing word that Russia, Syria and, to a lesser extent, Iran, are bombing the hell out of Idlib Province in Syria, and indiscriminately killing many innocent civilians. The World is watching this butchery. What is the purpose, what will it get you? STOP!" Trump tweeted. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Friday that almost 950 people had been killed in the latest clashes in Idlib. (With inputs from AFP)

After Trump tweets, Russia says military targeting 'terrorists' in Syria's Idlib

The Russian army has said President Bashar al-Assad's Syrian forces had ceased fire "unilaterally" in northwestern Idlib province, where the UN fears a "humanitarian catastrophe".

Russian army says Syrian forces have called ceasefire in Idlib

Britain on Friday challenged Russia and Syria to provide assurances to the UN Security Council that attacks on hospitals and schools in northwest Syria will stop.

The council was meeting in an emergency session to discuss the surge of fighting in the Idlib region that has raised the alarm of an imminent all-out assault which could lead to a humanitarian catastrophe.

At least 18 hospitals and clinics have been destroyed or damaged by air strikes and shelling over recent weeks, several of which were on UN "no target" lists that detail exact locations of the health facilities to the warring sides, the UN aid chief told the council.&nbsp;

"Russia and Syria are the only countries that fly planes in the area," British Ambassador Karen Pierce told the council. "I think we need answers today."

"If the answer is the Russian and Syrian air forces, I call on both ambassadors here today to give us the assurance that the attacks will stop."

Russia rejected accusations that hospitals and other civilian infrastructure were being targeted and stressed that military operations were aimed at wiping out terrorists.

"We categorically reject accusations of violations of international humanitarian law," Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia told the council.

"Not the Syrian army, or the Syrian air force, or Russia are conducting hostilities against civilians or civilian infrastructure."

"Our goal is the terrorists," he said.

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate which is on the UN terror list, controls most of Idlib province as well as parts of neighbouring Aleppo, Hama and Latakia provinces.

More than 180,000 people have been displaced by the latest violence in three weeks, UN aid chief Mark Lowcock said, and up to 160 people have been killed.

The region was to have been spared from a major offensive under a de-escalation agreement between Russia, Iran and Turkey, which has ties to the rebels.

The war in Syria, now in its ninth year, has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

Britain on Friday challenged Russia and Syria to provide assurances to the UN Security Council that attacks on hospitals and schools in northwest Syria will stop.

Britain on Friday challenged Russia and Syria to provide assurances to the UN Security Council that attacks on hospitals and schools in northwest Syria will stop. The council was meeting in an emergency session to discuss the surge of fighting in the Idlib region that has raised the alarm of an imminent all-out assault which could lead to a humanitarian catastrophe. At least 18 hospitals and clinics have been destroyed or damaged by air strikes and shelling over recent weeks, several of which were on UN "no target" lists that detail exact locations of the health facilities to the warring sides, the UN aid chief told the council. "Russia and Syria are the only countries that fly planes in the area," British Ambassador Karen Pierce told the council. "I think we need answers today." "If the answer is the Russian and Syrian air forces, I call on both ambassadors here today to give us the assurance that the attacks will stop." Russia rejected accusations that hospitals and other civilian infrastructure were being targeted and stressed that military operations were aimed at wiping out terrorists. "We categorically reject accusations of violations of international humanitarian law," Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia told the council. "Not the Syrian army, or the Syrian air force, or Russia are conducting hostilities against civilians or civilian infrastructure." "Our goal is the terrorists," he said. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate which is on the UN terror list, controls most of Idlib province as well as parts of neighbouring Aleppo, Hama and Latakia provinces. More than 180,000 people have been displaced by the latest violence in three weeks, UN aid chief Mark Lowcock said, and up to 160 people have been killed. The region was to have been spared from a major offensive under a de-escalation agreement between Russia, Iran and Turkey, which has ties to the rebels. The war in Syria, now in its ninth year, has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

Britain at UN presses Russia to answer for Idlib hospital attacks

The head of Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate in a video released Sunday urged supporters to "take up weapons" to defend his group's bastion of Idlib against increased bombardment.

The Damascus regime and its Russian ally have in recent weeks upped shelling and air strikes on the northwestern region held by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, despite a Russian-Turkish buffer zone deal intended to protect it.

"We call for anybody able to take up weapons... to head to the battlefield," HTS chief Abu Mohammad al-Jolani said.

The spike in violence against the Idlib region since late April signalled "the death of all previous agreements and conferences", he said during an interview with a local media activist in a countryside setting.

It shows that "only jihadists and military might can be relied on", said Jolani, wearing a camouflage uniform and sitting cross-legged in the grass.

The activist said the interview was recorded in the northern Hama countryside, although it was not immediately possible to verify this.

It appeared to have been made in recent days after a regime advance.

Idlib, a region of some three million people, is supposed to be protected from a massive regime assault by a September buffer zone deal signed by Russia and rebel backer Turkey.

But that agreement was never fully implemented after jihadists refused to withdraw from the planned buffer area.

Damascus and its allies have increased their deadly bombardment of the southern part of the jihadist bastion in recent weeks, killing dozens of civilians and causing tens of thousands more to flee.

They have taken control of several towns from the jihadists in recent days.

The uptick in air strikes and shelling has displaced 180,000 people between April 29 and May 9, the United Nations says.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based monitor, says around 120 civilians have been killed in the bombardment.

Damascus has not announced a wide offensive, but instead regularly announces targeting "terrorist" -- meaning jihadist or rebel -- positions.

Analysts believe the offensive will be limited.

The regime and Russia have accused the jihadists of targeting the main Russian airbase of Hmeimim to the west of Idlib.

"It's the right of the revolutionaries to bombard this base which causes the death of... women and children," Jolani said.

"If the Russian leadership wants the bombardment on Hmeimim to stop, it simply needs to stop supporting the regime and killing the Syrian people and civilians," he added.

Russia intervened in the war in 2015 and has since helped the government to regain large parts of the country.

The civil war in Syria has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests in 2011.

The head of Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate in a video released Sunday urged supporters to "take up weapons" to defend his group's bastion of Idlib against increased bombardment.

The head of Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate in a video released Sunday urged supporters to "take up weapons" to defend his group's bastion of Idlib against increased bombardment. The Damascus regime and its Russian ally have in recent weeks upped shelling and air strikes on the northwestern region held by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, despite a Russian-Turkish buffer zone deal intended to protect it. "We call for anybody able to take up weapons... to head to the battlefield," HTS chief Abu Mohammad al-Jolani said. The spike in violence against the Idlib region since late April signalled "the death of all previous agreements and conferences", he said during an interview with a local media activist in a countryside setting. It shows that "only jihadists and military might can be relied on", said Jolani, wearing a camouflage uniform and sitting cross-legged in the grass. The activist said the interview was recorded in the northern Hama countryside, although it was not immediately possible to verify this. It appeared to have been made in recent days after a regime advance. Idlib, a region of some three million people, is supposed to be protected from a massive regime assault by a September buffer zone deal signed by Russia and rebel backer Turkey. But that agreement was never fully implemented after jihadists refused to withdraw from the planned buffer area. Damascus and its allies have increased their deadly bombardment of the southern part of the jihadist bastion in recent weeks, killing dozens of civilians and causing tens of thousands more to flee. They have taken control of several towns from the jihadists in recent days. The uptick in air strikes and shelling has displaced 180,000 people between April 29 and May 9, the United Nations says. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based monitor, says around 120 civilians have been killed in the bombardment. Damascus has not announced a wide offensive, but instead regularly announces targeting "terrorist" -- meaning jihadist or rebel -- positions. Analysts believe the offensive will be limited. The regime and Russia have accused the jihadists of targeting the main Russian airbase of Hmeimim to the west of Idlib. "It's the right of the revolutionaries to bombard this base which causes the death of... women and children," Jolani said. "If the Russian leadership wants the bombardment on Hmeimim to stop, it simply needs to stop supporting the regime and killing the Syrian people and civilians," he added. Russia intervened in the war in 2015 and has since helped the government to regain large parts of the country. The civil war in Syria has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests in 2011.

Jihadist chief Jolani calls for arming to defend Syria's Idlib: Video

A Russian-backed Syrian government offensive in the rebel-held northwest has killed dozens of people and forced more than 150,000 to flee, the biggest <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/escalation-in-syrias-idlib-rattles-months-old-truce-216774">escalation in the war </a>between President Bashar al-Assad and his enemies since last summer.

Government barrel-bombing and Russian air strikes have been accompanied by limited ground assaults, straining a Russian-Turkish deal that spared the region from an offensive in September and generating new concerns for its 3 million people.

Watch- <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-clashes-erupt-in-syria-as-un-calls-the-situation-alarming-217104">Gravitas: Clashes Erupt In Syria As UN Calls The Situation 'Alarming'</a>

WHO CONTROLS IDLIB?

The northwest - Idlib province and a belt of territory around it - is mostly held by the jihadist Tahrir al-Sham, the latest incarnation of the former Nusra Front, which was part of al Qaeda until 2016.

The group tightened its grip earlier this year in a campaign against other rebels. Some of these still have a presence as part of the "National Front for Liberation", backed by Turkey.

Foreign jihadists have a significant presence, many of them members of the Huras al-Din group.

The Turkish military has established about a dozen military positions in the area under its agreements with Russia.

WHY HAS THE CONFLICT ESCALATED AGAIN?

The Russian-Turkish deal created a demilitarised zone from which jihadists were required to withdraw, effectively putting the onus on Turkey to tackle the problem while leaving the northwest within a sphere of Turkish influence.

But Russia's patience has been wearing thin over what it views as Turkey's failure to curb Tahrir al-Sham. Damascus, determined to recover "every inch" of Syria, has also publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the status quo.

The government accuses the Nusra Front of igniting the violence through attacks on its areas. The rebels accuse the government and "Russian occupiers" of trying to invade.

WHERE IS THE ATTACK FOCUSED, WHAT ARE ITS AIMS?

Most of the bombardment has been in the southern part of the rebel territory including areas in the demilitarised zone.

The full scope of the attack is not yet clear, though Russian President Vladimir Putin recently said a full-scale assault in Idlib was unpractical for now.

Rebel sources believe the government's aim is to seize two highways to Aleppo that run to the south of Idlib city through rebel-held areas. Russia and Turkey had previously agreed these roads should be opened.

Russia's motives in the northwest include securing its Latakia air base from rebel attacks.

WHAT IS THE CIVILIAN IMPACT?

The UN&nbsp;Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) says more than 152,000 people fled between April 29 and May 5, doubling the number of displaced in the northwest since February.

Air strikes have struck 12 health facilities, killed more than 80 civilians and wounded more than 300, OCHA said. Shelling, air strikes and fighting in more than 50 villages have destroyed at least 10 schools and teaching is suspended.

The UN&nbsp;regional humanitarian coordinator has said the barrel bombing is the worst for at least 15 months. Barrel bombs are containers filled with explosives dropped from helicopters.

COULD TURKEY BE DRAWN IN?

Turkey's response to the latest escalation has been muted, even when shelling from government-held territory struck a Turkish military position on Saturday.

Turkey has recently focused on rolling back Kurdish militia in other parts of northern Syria, notably the area near Tel Rifaat north of Aleppo. Turkey and Russia are in talks over the status of this area.

Turkey, Russia and Iran reaffirmed their commitment to the September agreement on the eve of the latest escalation.

In a joint statement after an April 25-26 meeting, they expressed concern about Tahrir al-Sham's efforts to increase its control and "reaffirmed the determination to continue cooperation" to eliminate jihadists including the Nusra Front.

Turkey's concerns would grow if the attack widened to the point of threatening another major influx of Syrian refugees. It already hosts 3.6 million.

HOW DO THE FORCES STACK UP?

The Syrian army can draw on the overwhelming fire power provided by the Russian air force and Iran-backed militias that have enabled it to defeat rebels across western Syria. The rebels do not have significant anti-aircraft defences.

Tahrir al-Sham has said it will confront any ground assault by "the Russian occupiers" with "steel and fire". The rebel arsenal includes guided anti-armour missiles, ground-to-ground rockets and jihadist suicide bombers.

In a video address this week, a Tahrir al-Sham spokesman said that rebels driven from other parts of Syria - Ghouta, Deraa and Homs - stood ready to defend the territory.

A Russian-backed Syrian government offensive in the rebel-held northwest has killed dozens of people and forced more than 150,000 to flee, the biggest escalation in the war between President Bashar al-Assad and his enemies since last summer.

A Russian-backed Syrian government offensive in the rebel-held northwest has killed dozens of people and forced more than 150,000 to flee, the biggest escalation in the war between President Bashar al-Assad and his enemies since last summer. Government barrel-bombing and Russian air strikes have been accompanied by limited ground assaults, straining a Russian-Turkish deal that spared the region from an offensive in September and generating new concerns for its 3 million people. Watch- Gravitas: Clashes Erupt In Syria As UN Calls The Situation 'Alarming' WHO CONTROLS IDLIB? The northwest - Idlib province and a belt of territory around it - is mostly held by the jihadist Tahrir al-Sham, the latest incarnation of the former Nusra Front, which was part of al Qaeda until 2016. The group tightened its grip earlier this year in a campaign against other rebels. Some of these still have a presence as part of the "National Front for Liberation", backed by Turkey. Foreign jihadists have a significant presence, many of them members of the Huras al-Din group. The Turkish military has established about a dozen military positions in the area under its agreements with Russia. WHY HAS THE CONFLICT ESCALATED AGAIN? The Russian-Turkish deal created a demilitarised zone from which jihadists were required to withdraw, effectively putting the onus on Turkey to tackle the problem while leaving the northwest within a sphere of Turkish influence. But Russia's patience has been wearing thin over what it views as Turkey's failure to curb Tahrir al-Sham. Damascus, determined to recover "every inch" of Syria, has also publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the status quo. The government accuses the Nusra Front of igniting the violence through attacks on its areas. The rebels accuse the government and "Russian occupiers" of trying to invade. WHERE IS THE ATTACK FOCUSED, WHAT ARE ITS AIMS? Most of the bombardment has been in the southern part of the rebel territory including areas in the demilitarised zone. The full scope of the attack is not yet clear, though Russian President Vladimir Putin recently said a full-scale assault in Idlib was unpractical for now. Rebel sources believe the government's aim is to seize two highways to Aleppo that run to the south of Idlib city through rebel-held areas. Russia and Turkey had previously agreed these roads should be opened. Russia's motives in the northwest include securing its Latakia air base from rebel attacks. WHAT IS THE CIVILIAN IMPACT? The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) says more than 152,000 people fled between April 29 and May 5, doubling the number of displaced in the northwest since February. Air strikes have struck 12 health facilities, killed more than 80 civilians and wounded more than 300, OCHA said. Shelling, air strikes and fighting in more than 50 villages have destroyed at least 10 schools and teaching is suspended. The UN regional humanitarian coordinator has said the barrel bombing is the worst for at least 15 months. Barrel bombs are containers filled with explosives dropped from helicopters. COULD TURKEY BE DRAWN IN? Turkey's response to the latest escalation has been muted, even when shelling from government-held territory struck a Turkish military position on Saturday. Turkey has recently focused on rolling back Kurdish militia in other parts of northern Syria, notably the area near Tel Rifaat north of Aleppo. Turkey and Russia are in talks over the status of this area. Turkey, Russia and Iran reaffirmed their commitment to the September agreement on the eve of the latest escalation. In a joint statement after an April 25-26 meeting, they expressed concern about Tahrir al-Sham's efforts to increase its control and "reaffirmed the determination to continue cooperation" to eliminate jihadists including the Nusra Front. Turkey's concerns would grow if the attack widened to the point of threatening another major influx of Syrian refugees. It already hosts 3.6 million. HOW DO THE FORCES STACK UP? The Syrian army can draw on the overwhelming fire power provided by the Russian air force and Iran-backed militias that have enabled it to defeat rebels across western Syria. The rebels do not have significant anti-aircraft defences. Tahrir al-Sham has said it will confront any ground assault by "the Russian occupiers" with "steel and fire". The rebel arsenal includes guided anti-armour missiles, ground-to-ground rockets and jihadist suicide bombers. In a video address this week, a Tahrir al-Sham spokesman said that rebels driven from other parts of Syria - Ghouta, Deraa and Homs - stood ready to defend the territory.

Explainer: Why the war in Syria's Idlib escalated again

At least nine civilians, including two children, were killed Saturday in air strikes by Syria's government and its ally Russia in the northwest of the country, a war monitor said.

Syria's military and Russia carried out more than 100 air raids in Idlib, Hama and Aleppo provinces, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said in a statement.

The Observatory said dozens of barrel bombs were dropped by Syrian military helicopters.&nbsp;

Three women and one member of the White Helmets -- a team of first responders working in some rebel-held areas -- were also among the nine dead, the war monitor said.

All nine civilians were killed in Idlib and Hama, it said.

The first responder was killed after arriving at the site of raids to treat people wounded in southern Idlib, the head of the White Helmets Raed Saleh said on Twitter.

An AFP photographer saw clouds of black smoke above two villages in southern Idlib after the air raids.

Syrian state news agency SANA said the country's military had opened fire on "terrorist groups".

Much of Idlib and parts of Aleppo and Hama are controlled by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Al-Qaeda's former Syria branch.

The regime has intensified air strikes against these areas in recent months, despite a September deal between governmentally Russia and rebel backer Turkey that is meant to protect Idlib from a massive regime offensive.

Syria's multi-fronted civil war has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it began in 2011 with anti-regime protests that sparked a devastating crackdown.

At least nine civilians, including two children, were killed Saturday in air strikes by Syria's government and its ally Russia in the northwest of the country, a war monitor said.

At least nine civilians, including two children, were killed Saturday in air strikes by Syria's government and its ally Russia in the northwest of the country, a war monitor said. Syria's military and Russia carried out more than 100 air raids in Idlib, Hama and Aleppo provinces, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said in a statement. The Observatory said dozens of barrel bombs were dropped by Syrian military helicopters. Three women and one member of the White Helmets -- a team of first responders working in some rebel-held areas -- were also among the nine dead, the war monitor said. All nine civilians were killed in Idlib and Hama, it said. The first responder was killed after arriving at the site of raids to treat people wounded in southern Idlib, the head of the White Helmets Raed Saleh said on Twitter. An AFP photographer saw clouds of black smoke above two villages in southern Idlib after the air raids. Syrian state news agency SANA said the country's military had opened fire on "terrorist groups". Much of Idlib and parts of Aleppo and Hama are controlled by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Al-Qaeda's former Syria branch. The regime has intensified air strikes against these areas in recent months, despite a September deal between governmentally Russia and rebel backer Turkey that is meant to protect Idlib from a massive regime offensive. Syria's multi-fronted civil war has killed more than 370,000 people and displaced millions since it began in 2011 with anti-regime protests that sparked a devastating crackdown.

Nine killed by regime, Russian strikes in Syria's Idlib: War monitor

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday he did not rule out Syrian forces, backed by Russian air power, launching a full-scale assault on militants in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/army-shelling-kills-22-civilians-in-syrias-idlib-monitor-207943">Syria's Idlib province</a>, but that such an operation was unpractical for now.

Russia, one of the Syrian government’s staunchest allies, and Turkey brokered a deal in September to create a demilitarised zone in the northwest <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/istanbul-summit-france-will-ensure-ceasefire-in-idlib-remains-russia-to-discuss-return-of-refugees-to-syria-172313">Idlib</a> region that would be free of all heavy weapons and jihadist fighters.

The deal helped avert a government assault on the region, the last major bastion of opponents of President Bashar al-Assad.

But Moscow has since complained about escalating violence in the area and said that militants who used to belong to the Nusra Front group are in control of large swaths of territory.

Speaking in Beijing, Putin said that Moscow and Damascus would continue what he called the fight against terrorism and that any militants who tried to break out of Idlib, something he said happened from time to time, were bombed.

But Putin said the presence of civilians in parts of Idlib where militants were also active meant the time was not yet ripe for full-scale military operations.

"I don't rule it (a full-scale assault) out, but right now we and our Syrian friends consider that to be inadvisable given this humanitarian element," Putin told reporters.

Moscow is keen to help Assad retake territory, including eventually Idlib province, but Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has argued against a Russian-backed offensive in a region that borders his own country.

Ankara is concerned about potential refugee flows from Idlib in the event of a military operation, and wants to retain its influence there.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday he did not rule out Syrian forces, backed by Russian air power, launching a full-scale assault on militants in Syria's Idlib province, but that such an operation was unpractical for now.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday he did not rule out Syrian forces, backed by Russian air power, launching a full-scale assault on militants in Syria's Idlib province, but that such an operation was unpractical for now. Russia, one of the Syrian government’s staunchest allies, and Turkey brokered a deal in September to create a demilitarised zone in the northwest Idlib region that would be free of all heavy weapons and jihadist fighters. The deal helped avert a government assault on the region, the last major bastion of opponents of President Bashar al-Assad. But Moscow has since complained about escalating violence in the area and said that militants who used to belong to the Nusra Front group are in control of large swaths of territory. Speaking in Beijing, Putin said that Moscow and Damascus would continue what he called the fight against terrorism and that any militants who tried to break out of Idlib, something he said happened from time to time, were bombed. But Putin said the presence of civilians in parts of Idlib where militants were also active meant the time was not yet ripe for full-scale military operations. "I don't rule it (a full-scale assault) out, but right now we and our Syrian friends consider that to be inadvisable given this humanitarian element," Putin told reporters. Moscow is keen to help Assad retake territory, including eventually Idlib province, but Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has argued against a Russian-backed offensive in a region that borders his own country. Ankara is concerned about potential refugee flows from Idlib in the event of a military operation, and wants to retain its influence there.

Russia and Syria are not planning assault on Idlib for now: Vladimir Putin

Heavy bombardment by the Syrian army of the jihadist-controlled Idlib region has killed 22 civilians, a monitor said Thursday, the latest violence to threaten a seven-month-old truce.

The ceasefire was brokered by the main foreign backers of the warring parties in September to head off a government offensive that prompted UN warnings of humanitarian disaster for the region's three million residents.

But since the region was overrun by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham alliance led by former Al-Qaeda fighters in January, the fragile truce has come under mounting assault.

Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem accused Turkey, which signed the September deal on behalf of the rebels, of failing to honour its commitments and warned that his government's patience was running out.

The UN humanitarian affairs office said the escalating violence threatened aid deliveries to some 2.7 million people in need.

In the latest flare-up, army artillery and rocket fire on the Idlib towns of Kafrnabel and Maaret al-Noman killed 13 people on Thursday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

It came after the shelling of adjacent jihadist-held areas of Hama and Aleppo provinces killed nine people late on Wednesday, the Britain-based watchdog said.

The UN humanitarian office said that the escalating violence had already killed 90 civilians in the Idlib region in March, nearly half of them children.

More than 86,500 people fled their homes in February and March as a result of the escalation, it added.&nbsp;

The UN expressed concern over "increased shelling along front lines, an intensification of air strikes and a growing number of attacks involving improvised explosive devices in urban areas."&nbsp;

The Syrian foreign minister said his government was growing impatient to recapture Idlib, the last region outside its control apart from the Kurdish-held north and northeast where Washington retains a troop presence.

Muallem said Turkey had failed to ensure the withdrawal of jihadist forces from a planned buffer zone along the front line as stipulated by the truce agreed in the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi.

"It is known that Turkey is responsible for a delay in implementing" the deal, he said at a joint press conference with his Venezuelan counterpart Jorge Arreaza.&nbsp;

"Honestly, we are still waiting for the Sochi deal to be implemented but our patience has its limits and we must liberate this land.

"We are losing patience," he warned.

More than half of the population of the Idlib region have already fled government offensives on other rebel-held regions of Syria.

Many live in tent cities where they are dependent on humanitarian aid and deeply vulnerable to a resurgence of all-out conflict.

At least 370,000 people have died in Syria since the civil war erupted in 2011.

Heavy bombardment by the Syrian army of the jihadist-controlled Idlib region has killed 22 civilians, a monitor said Thursday, the latest violence to threaten a seven-month-old truce.

Heavy bombardment by the Syrian army of the jihadist-controlled Idlib region has killed 22 civilians, a monitor said Thursday, the latest violence to threaten a seven-month-old truce. The ceasefire was brokered by the main foreign backers of the warring parties in September to head off a government offensive that prompted UN warnings of humanitarian disaster for the region's three million residents. But since the region was overrun by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham alliance led by former Al-Qaeda fighters in January, the fragile truce has come under mounting assault. Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem accused Turkey, which signed the September deal on behalf of the rebels, of failing to honour its commitments and warned that his government's patience was running out. The UN humanitarian affairs office said the escalating violence threatened aid deliveries to some 2.7 million people in need. In the latest flare-up, army artillery and rocket fire on the Idlib towns of Kafrnabel and Maaret al-Noman killed 13 people on Thursday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. It came after the shelling of adjacent jihadist-held areas of Hama and Aleppo provinces killed nine people late on Wednesday, the Britain-based watchdog said. The UN humanitarian office said that the escalating violence had already killed 90 civilians in the Idlib region in March, nearly half of them children. More than 86,500 people fled their homes in February and March as a result of the escalation, it added. The UN expressed concern over "increased shelling along front lines, an intensification of air strikes and a growing number of attacks involving improvised explosive devices in urban areas." The Syrian foreign minister said his government was growing impatient to recapture Idlib, the last region outside its control apart from the Kurdish-held north and northeast where Washington retains a troop presence. Muallem said Turkey had failed to ensure the withdrawal of jihadist forces from a planned buffer zone along the front line as stipulated by the truce agreed in the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi. "It is known that Turkey is responsible for a delay in implementing" the deal, he said at a joint press conference with his Venezuelan counterpart Jorge Arreaza. "Honestly, we are still waiting for the Sochi deal to be implemented but our patience has its limits and we must liberate this land. "We are losing patience," he warned. More than half of the population of the Idlib region have already fled government offensives on other rebel-held regions of Syria. Many live in tent cities where they are dependent on humanitarian aid and deeply vulnerable to a resurgence of all-out conflict. At least 370,000 people have died in Syria since the civil war erupted in 2011.

Army shelling kills 22 civilians in Syria's Idlib: Monitor

idlib

Idlib, News on Idlib, stories on Idlib, articles on Idlib, Idlib stories at Wion, Idlib news, Idlib latest news