Syrian government forces advance on largest remaining rebel-held area

Syrian forces and allies are advancing on the largest remaining rebel-held area in the north of the country, forcing thousands of civilians to flee towards the border with Turkey in freezing temperatures.

The offensive on Idlib - a large province in north-west Syria packed with civilians and dominated by al-Qaida-linked militants - was expected after the defeat of the so-called 'Islamic State' group late last year.