Rebel factions in Syria have reportedly seized control of approximately half of Aleppo, the nation’s second-largest city. This assertion comes from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a UK-based monitoring organization. Since the commencement of the offensive on Wednesday, it has been stated that 277 individuals have lost their lives, including over 20 civilians. This offensive is notable as it marks the most extensive challenge to President Bashar al-Assad’s government in several years and represents the first significant rebel presence in Aleppo since 2016.
Observations from SOHR indicate that the rebels encountered minimal resistance during their takeover, with SOHR director Rami Abdel Rahman stating that “there has been no fighting, not a single shot was fired, as regime forces withdrew.” While rebel successes have been reported, government forces have claimed to have reclaimed certain positions in areas around Aleppo and Idlib after the initial offensive launched by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) faction and its allies.
Video footage related to the conflict shows rebel fighters moving through the city, and there are reports that Aleppo’s airport and surrounding roads have been closed due to the ongoing conflict. The civil war, which began in 2011, has led to a catastrophic loss of life, with estimates suggesting that more than half a million individuals have died. Amidst such turmoil, various armed factions, including jihadist groups, have exploited instability for territorial gains.
Amid developments in the region, Syrian and Russian air forces executed 23 airstrikes near Idlib on Friday. Reports indicated that these strikes resulted in civilian casualties, including fatalities and injuries. Russian military sources claimed they targeted extremist forces, while Kremlin representatives voiced support for restoring order in Syria.
The recent rebel advances in Aleppo present a significant challenge to both the Syrian government and its ally, Russia. As a response to these evolving situations, a rebel-affiliated channel announced, “Our forces have begun entering the city of Aleppo.” Accounts from local residents further highlight the tension, with civilians expressing fear of renewed conflict and potential displacement.
Concerns for civilian safety are growing, with the UN’s deputy regional humanitarian coordinator for Syria raising alarms over escalating hostilities resulting in civilian casualties, including children. The fighting in Idlib has diminished since a 2020 ceasefire, yet the recent resurgence of hostilities indicates a volatile and unpredictable situation. The offensive occurred while the Syrian government is also preoccupied with ongoing conflicts, including increased Israeli military actions against Iran-backed entities in Syria.
Summary: Syrian rebels have taken control of significant portions of Aleppo, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing civil war. Minimal resistance from government forces has led to civilian casualties and rising concerns about the humanitarian impact of renewed violence. The situation underscores the complexities of the Syrian conflict as various factions vie for control amid ongoing regional tensions.
Despite the dire circumstances, there remains hope that diplomatic efforts could lead to a de-escalation of violence. As global attention continues to focus on Syria, there may be renewed calls for humanitarian aid and a peaceful resolution to the conflict, aiming to protect civilians and promote stability in the region.