Syrian opposition fighters stand in front of University of Aleppo, after rebels opposed to Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad said they had reached the heart of Aleppo, Syria November 30, 2024. REUTERS/Mahmoud Hasano
Rebel Advance in Aleppo Challenges Assad’s Rule
The Syrian army faced a significant setback on Saturday as rebels launched a surprise offensive in Aleppo, marking the boldest assault in years. Led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the attack forced Syrian forces to redeploy and raised questions about the stability of President Bashar al-Assad’s control.
Rebel Offensive Breaks Years of Stalemate
Aleppo, firmly under government control since 2016, witnessed renewed fighting as rebels swept into the city. The Syrian military acknowledged losing large parts of Aleppo to the insurgents, who also claimed control of Aleppo airport and other key positions.
Ali Jumaa, a rebel fighter and Aleppo native displaced during the 2016 battle, expressed his emotions:
“Thank God we just returned. It is an indescribable feeling.”
Images from Aleppo showed rebel fighters in central areas, including Saadallah al-Jabiri Square, where they posed near a toppled statue of Bassil al-Assad, the late brother of President Assad.
Government Response: Airstrikes and Redeployment
In response, the Syrian army launched airstrikes targeting rebel convoys and gatherings. Residents reported casualties from strikes, including one in Aleppo’s Basel Square. The military command described the redeployment as necessary to “strengthen defence lines” and protect civilians.
Regional and Geopolitical Implications
The resurgence of fighting in Aleppo coincides with broader unrest in the Middle East, including conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. The battle for Aleppo highlights the region’s intricate geopolitics:
- Assad’s Allies: Russia and Iran back the Syrian government. Russia has promised additional military aid to Damascus, expected to arrive within 72 hours.
- Rebels’ Supporters: Turkey supports some opposition groups and has troops stationed in Syria’s northwest. Ankara reportedly blocked some rebel operations to avoid escalating tensions.
The conflict also comes amid accusations by Iran that the attacks are part of an Israeli-U.S. strategy to destabilize the region.
Kurdish Forces Expand Control
Amid the chaos, Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG), which lead the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), expanded their influence in Aleppo as government forces retreated. A senior YPG source confirmed their increased foothold in the city.
HTS Gains Ground in Idlib
In addition to Aleppo, rebels captured the city of Maraat al-Numan in Idlib province, gaining control over the entire area. HTS leaders stated the offensive was a response to recent Russian and Syrian airstrikes on civilians in Idlib.
Mustafa Abdul Jaber, a commander in the Jaish al-Izza rebel brigade, credited the swift rebel advances to a lack of Iranian-backed reinforcements in Aleppo province.
Regional Diplomacy and Ceasefire Efforts
In the wake of the offensive, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan discussed joint measures to stabilize Syria. Iranian officials suggested the attacks were orchestrated by Israel and the U.S., further complicating the regional dynamics.
Meanwhile, civilians in rebel-held areas continue to face airstrikes. The Syrian Civil Defense reported casualties from government and Russian air raids on residential neighborhoods in Idlib.
Renewed Conflict’s Broader Impact
The resurgence of intense fighting in Aleppo signals a potential revival of Syria’s long-dormant conflict. With Assad’s forces on the defensive and rebel groups gaining momentum, the battle for Aleppo may mark a turning point in the 12-year civil war.
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