in just over two weeks, the volunteer White Helmets rescue group said Sunday that nearly 180 people have been killed in Syria's Eastern Ghouta. The number includes 51 children. The deaths come as the government steps up its air raids on the country's remaining rebel-held areas.
The death count was announced as more regime strikes were reported over the weekend. Activists have posted videos online of rescuers pulling children from the rubble of targeted buildings.
The start of the year has been marked by death and destruction in Eastern Ghouta. The area is an enclave the outskirts of the capital Damasus.