Rebel forces in Syria have reportedly gained control of approximately half of Aleppo, the country’s second-largest city, as stated by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR). This significant offensive marks the largest challenge to the Syrian government led by President Bashar al-Assad in recent years, occurring after the rebels were expelled from Aleppo in 2016. The recent surge in fighting has already resulted in the deaths of at least 277 individuals, including over 20 civilians, since the offensive began on Wednesday.
According to SOHR, the rebel forces captured substantial areas of Aleppo with minimal resistance, as government troops retreated. On the other hand, Syrian military sources reported that government forces had regained some territories in surrounding towns. Video footage from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an Islamist militant group involved in the offensive, shows rebel fighters maneuvering within Aleppo city limits.
The ongoing civil war in Syria, which ignited after a government crackdown on pro-democracy protests in 2011, has claimed the lives of more than half a million people. Various armed factions, including jihadist groups, have exploited the chaos to control significant territories. Although the Syrian government, bolstered by Russian support, has reclaimed many areas over the years, Idlib remains the last opposition stronghold, predominantly held by HTS with some Turkish-backed rebel factions operating in the region.
Russian air strikes targeted areas near Idlib on Friday, with reports of four civilian casualties and numerous injuries. These strikes were characterized by Russian officials as targeting “extremist forces.” The Kremlin expressed its intent to support the Syrian government in restoring stability.
In light of the recent developments, residents of Aleppo have voiced their anxiety over the prospect of renewed hostilities, fearing displacement once again. The UN’s deputy regional humanitarian co-ordinator for Syria has also expressed serious concerns about the escalating violence’s impact on civilians, particularly the tragic loss of many innocent lives.
This situation illustrates the ongoing struggles faced by civilians in conflict areas and underscores the importance of a peaceful resolution to the Syrian crisis. International diplomatic efforts continue to be crucial in addressing the plight of the Syrian people and re-establishing a lasting peace in the region.
In summary, the rebels’ offensive in Aleppo represents a significant shift in the Syrian landscape, posing a considerable challenge to the Assad regime and its allies. As this conflict continues to unfold, the focus remains on minimizing civilian suffering and finding pathways toward a resolution.