Russia launches first air strikes against Assad enemies in Syria

Russia has launched its first air strikes in Syria against opponents of President Bashar al-Assad.

The strikes reportedly hit rebel-controlled areas of Homs and Hama provinces, causing casualties.

The US says it was informed an hour before they took place.

Russian defence officials say aircraft carried out about 20 missions targeting Islamic State, but US officials said that so far they did not appear to be targeting IS-held territory.

              Russian Su-24 fighter-bomber aircraft are said to have been involved in the strikes