The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said more than 280 civilians have been killed since the Turkey-led offensive against the Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG) in Afrin began on January 20.
"There was fierce fighting throughout the night on the northern outskirts of the city as the Turkish forces and their Syrian allies tried to break into the city," the Observatory said.
Ankara has repeatedly said it takes the "utmost care" to avoid civilian casualties, AFP reported.
More than 200,000 civilians have escaped their homes in the Kurdish-majority city of Afrin in less than three days, the Observatory said.
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