Syria conflict: 'Massive rebel assault' to take Aleppo

Syrian rebels have begun a massive assault aimed at taking full control of the northern city of Aleppo.  

Reports say rebels fired hundreds of rockets and missiles into government-held areas in a multi-district attack.  

Analysts say the fall of Syria's second city would be a major setback for President Bashar al-Assad.  

Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says four civilians have been killed and more than 70 wounded in the rebel offensive, while five rebel fighters have been killed in clashes with government forces in western Aleppo.  

A statement by the rebel groups said their goal is to liberate the city of Aleppo and ensure it is ruled by Sharia principles.

BBC