Syrian Rebels Seize Large Parts of Aleppo Amid Intense Fighting
Syrian rebels, led by the Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have captured most of Aleppo in a dramatic offensive that poses the biggest threat to President Bashar al-Assad’s authority in years. This unexpected move forced Syrian government forces to retreat strategically as they prepare a counteroffensive to reclaim the city.
Rebels Enter Aleppo, Breaking Years of Stalemate
The Syrian military confirmed on Saturday that opposition forces had gained control of significant portions of Aleppo, marking the first major breach since the city was fully retaken by Assad’s forces eight years ago. The military described the insurgents as “terrorists” and stated that their entry into Aleppo had forced the army to redeploy to fortify defense lines and prepare for a counterattack.
Government forces assured that airstrikes and bombardments had slowed the rebels’ progress, preventing them from establishing firm positions. They promised to “expel the insurgents and restore full control over Aleppo and its countryside.”
Broader Regional Impact
This offensive reignites conflict in northwestern Syria, a region that has seen relative calm since 2020. The fighting comes amid broader regional tensions, including wars in Gaza and Lebanon. Syrian and Russian warplanes have reportedly targeted rebel positions in Aleppo’s suburbs, while opposition sources claim the offensive stems from escalating attacks on civilians in Idlib by Syrian and Russian forces.
Turkey, a known supporter of the rebels, is believed to have approved the operation, according to opposition sources. However, Ankara has publicly expressed concern over increasing instability and warned that such actions undermine de-escalation agreements.
Civilian Casualties and Infrastructure Collapse
The Syrian Civil Defense, operating in rebel-held areas, reported airstrikes on residential neighborhoods, a gas station, and a school in Idlib, resulting in four civilian deaths and several injuries. State media noted that four civilians were killed in Aleppo when HTS shelled a student residence.
The humanitarian impact is severe, with reports of Aleppo’s streets deserted and public institutions shut down. Civilians have largely stayed indoors, fearing the crossfire.
Swift Rebel Advances
Rebel forces quickly advanced through Aleppo’s neighborhoods, capturing police buildings, key streets, and public spaces with minimal resistance. Images shared online showed fighters celebrating with the rebel flag and defacing posters of Assad.
In addition to Aleppo, rebels have reportedly seized the city of Maarrat al-Nu’man in Idlib, effectively bringing the entire province under their control. The town of Saraqib, strategically located southwest of Aleppo, has also fallen to opposition forces.
Death Toll and Regional Reactions
According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, recent clashes have claimed 311 lives, including 183 rebel fighters, 100 government troops, and 28 civilians. Aleppo’s governor and top security officials have reportedly withdrawn from the city center.
Russia has pledged additional military aid to Damascus within 72 hours to support the counteroffensive. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov called the rebel attack a violation of Syria’s sovereignty and reaffirmed Russia’s support for restoring constitutional order.
Iran’s Role and Accusations
The offensive occurs as Iran faces regional setbacks amid the broader Middle East turmoil. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi accused the U.S. and Israel of backing the rebels’ actions, while opposition sources suggest the lack of Iranian manpower in Aleppo contributed to the rebels’ rapid advance.
Conclusion
The resurgence of fighting in Aleppo underscores the fragility of Syria’s stability and the complexities of a conflict shaped by international alliances and regional tensions. With government forces vowing to retake Aleppo, the coming days are likely to bring further bloodshed and uncertainty for the region’s civilians.
Rebel forces claim control of Syria’s city of Aleppo • FRANCE 24 English
