Syrian rebels launch surprise assault on Aleppo, marking the first attack on the city since 2016 and potentially altering the balance of power in the region.
At a Glance
- Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) leads the largest rebel advance in recent times
- Thousands of insurgents capture over 50 towns and villages
- Fighting displaces families and disrupts aid services
- 255 deaths reported, mostly fighters, with 24 civilian casualties
- Russia and Iran express support for Syrian government
Rebels Storm Aleppo: A Major Shift in Syria’s Civil War
In a sudden and dramatic turn of events, Syrian rebels have launched a surprise offensive on Aleppo, marking their first attack on the city since 2016. The sudden attack, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has shocked the region and could potentially alter the balance of power in Syria’s ongoing civil war. The offensive, involving thousands of insurgents, has resulted in the capture of over 50 towns and villages, as well as military vehicles and heavy weapons.
It also comes at a time of major political uncertainty, with the incoming Trump administration in the United States set to change the dynamics of global conflict. Who knows how he’ll respond?
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports that the rebels employed car bombs in their assault, while Turkey’s Anadolu Agency confirmed the insurgents’ entry into Aleppo’s city center. This development represents the most intense fighting in northwestern Syria since 2020, catching government forces off guard and resulting in dozens of casualties on both sides.
HISTORIC footage of Syrian rebels entering Aleppo today. pic.twitter.com/N39RSruU3F
— Clash Report (@clashreport) November 29, 2024
Impact on Civilians and Regional Stability
The sudden eruption of violence has had immediate and severe consequences for the civilian population. Thousands of families have been displaced, and aid services have been disrupted, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. Syrian state media reported that projectiles from insurgents killed four people, including two students, at Aleppo’s university, underscoring the dangers faced by civilians caught in the crossfire.
“There are fierce battles and clashes west of Aleppo, but they have not reached the city,” a Syrian government security official said.
The fighting has also had broader regional implications. Hezbollah, a key ally of the Syrian government, is currently engaged in a conflict with Israel, potentially limiting their involvement in Syria. This power vacuum may have contributed to the rebels’ ability to launch such a large-scale offensive.
International Reactions and Ceasefire Attempts
The international community has been quick to respond to the escalating situation. Iran’s foreign minister blamed the offensive on a “US-Zionist plan,” while Russia expressed hope for a quick restoration of order. The Kremlin spokesman stated their support for the Syrian government to “restore order and sovereignty in Aleppo.”
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said described the incident as an “infringement on the sovereignty of Syria.”
Despite attempts at de-escalation, including a ceasefire agreement, both sides have reportedly breached the truce. The Syrian government accuses insurgents of violating a 2019 de-escalation agreement, further complicating efforts to bring stability to the region.
This latest offensive is a stark reminder that Syria’s civil war, which began in 2011, is far from over. The conflict has seen the government battling various insurgent groups, resulting in widespread destruction and displacement. Idlib remains the last major opposition stronghold, housing over four million people, many of whom are living in poor conditions after being displaced from other parts of the country.
