Russian, Syrian jets intensify bombing of rebel-held Idlib region

AMMAN - Russian and Syrian jets struck the rebel-held city of Idlib on Dec 1 in the second day of intensive bombing in northern Syria aimed at pushing back insurgents who had swept through to the city of Aleppo, Syrian army sources said.

Residents said one of the raids hit a crowded residential area in the centre of Idlib, which is the largest city in a rebel enclave near the Turkish border, where around four million people live in makeshift tents and dwellings.

At least four people were killed and dozens injured, according to rescuers at the scene.

The Syrian army and its ally Russia said they targeted the hideouts of insurgent groups and denied attacking civilians.