Syrian rebels claim shooting down Iranian plane over Damascus

According to an unconfirmed report on Al-Arabiya TV Thursday, the Syrian Free Army rebels used anti-aircraft missiles to shoot down over Damascus airport a plane coming in from Iran loaded with weapons for the Syrian Army. The rebels said the plane managed to land before bursting into flames. DEBKAfile: The rebels have obtained SU-23 automatic anti-air guns which are old but still effective. If their claim is confirmed, it will be first time they have managed to hit the Iranian airlift which keeps the Syrian Army supplied with military equipment and ordnance.