Hasaka, Syria (AINA) -- Up to twenty people were killed by a car bomb that exploded near the Edward Iwas school on Monday, in the Al Mahatta area of Hasaka. Four Assyrians were among those killed. One Assyrian was injured.

The deceased Assyrians were all from one family and have been identified as Ragheda Tani (40), Miriam Tani (45), Amal Tani (37) and Heart Tani (18).

Assyrians in Syria have been come under attack since the civil war began. ISIS and other Muslim groups have targeted Assyrians and driven them from their homes and villages.

On February 23 ISIS attacked the 35 Assyrian villages on the Khabur river in the Hasaka province. ISIS captured 253 in the initial attack and drove 3,000 Assyrians from their villages. Most have not returned. ISIS subsequently released 48 of the hostages but is still holding 205.

On August 6 the town of Qaryatain, Syria fell to ISIS, who captured up to 250 Assyrians. 15 were subsequently released.

For more information see Attacks on Assyrians in Syria By ISIS and Other Muslim Groups.