In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the already volatile Syrian conflict, Hay’et Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) rebels have seized control of significant portions of Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city, following a swift and unexpected offensive this week. The rebels’ advance, marked by a surprising level of coordination and force, has captured international attention and raised serious concerns about the potential for further escalation.
The scale of the HTS victory is undeniable. Reports indicate that the rebels have secured substantial areas within Aleppo, culminating in the capture of the city’s international airport – a strategically vital asset. This seizure represents a major blow to the Syrian government’s forces, who had previously held firm control over Aleppo since the Syrian opposition was driven out in 2016. The rebels’ ambitions appear far from satisfied; reports suggest a southward push towards Hama, a significant city further inland, is underway. This audacious move underscores the rebels’ determination and strategic capabilities.
The Syrian armed opposition has publicly stated its intention to leverage these gains to create expanded safe zones within Idlib province. This declaration aims to facilitate the return of displaced civilians to recently liberated territories. However, this objective faces considerable challenges, given the ongoing conflict and the significant destruction wrought by years of war.
The Syrian government, backed by its key allies – Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah – has responded with fierce aerial bombardment. Russian and Syrian government airstrikes pounded central Aleppo on Saturday, marking the first such attacks on the city since 2016. This retaliatory action highlights the seriousness with which the Assad regime views the HTS offensive and its potential ramifications. The intensity of the airstrikes serves as a clear warning to the rebels, emphasizing the government’s resolve to reclaim lost ground. The withdrawal of Assad’s forces from Aleppo, a city previously considered firmly under their control, is indicative of the rapid and substantial gains made by the HTS rebels in this decisive offensive.
The situation remains highly volatile and unpredictable. The consequences of this major shift in the Syrian conflict are still unfolding, with implications extending far beyond Syria’s borders. International observers are closely monitoring the situation, anxiously awaiting further developments and assessing the potential for regional instability and humanitarian crises.
