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Syrian Civilians 'Killed In Air Strikes' On Rebel-Held Area Near Capital

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Syrian rebels shot down a Russian warplane on February 3 and killed its pilot on the ground after he ejected from the plane, Russia's Defense Ministry and Syrian rebels said. Video shared on social media showed what appeared to be the burning wreckage of the Russian Su-25 plane. A jihadist group called Hayat Tahrir al-Sham claimed responsibility, saying a shoulder-launched missile had been used. (Reuters/Social media)

At least 23 civilians were killed on February 5 as Syrian government forces launched air strikes against the rebel-held enclave of Eastern Ghouta near the capital Damascus, a monitor said.

Four children were among those killed, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor said.

The observatory says at least 70 have been wounded.

The activist-run Ghouta Media Center also reported that 23 were killed.

An estimated 400,000 residents live in Eastern Ghouta, besieged by Syrian government forces.

Based on reporting by AFP and AP