Failaq al-Rahman, key rebel group fighting regime forces in Eastern Ghouta suburbs, said on Sunday it had ambushed army’s elite forces for the third time in a week near the capital, leaving 16 soldiers killed, spokesman said.
The elite forces of Fourth Armoured Division have been facing fierce resistance in Ein Tarma town by rebels who oppose Russia’s ceasefire deal. 30 troops were killed on Wednesday and Thursday, said Wael Alwan, spokesman for Faylaq al-Rahman.
Parts of Eastern Ghouta are protected by a cease-fire agreement. The regime has largely targeted areas held by rebel factions not party to that agreement.
Last week, regime airstrikes on Kafr Batna and Zamalka left 8 people killed, including children, Civil Defense, local rescuing group, said. Activists said more than 15 surface-to surface missiles had pounded Ein Tarma and Zamalka.
