THE UNITED Nations has warned that there could be a “bloodbath” as Syrian government and Russian forces prepare to assault the last major rebel stronghold, in Idlib province, putting millions at risk as airstrikes kill 40 including many children.
Syrian troops, including the elite Tiger Force, are reported to be gathering on the outskirts of the province.
Shelling has been reported to the South, East and West of Idlib.
Syrian regime helicopters have been dropping leaflets over towns urging locals not to resist, and claiming that the war is “close to an end”.
Last month Syria President Bashar al-Assad vowed to recapture the territory, after the Syrian army made gains in other parts of the country, saying: “Idlib is our goal.”
UFS