Syrian rebels storm Aleppo in a surprise offensive, marking the first major attack on the city since 2016 and potentially reshaping the Syrian conflict.
At a Glance
- Rebel forces, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), launch a major offensive on Aleppo
- Thousands of insurgents capture over 50 towns and villages, advancing towards the city
- The assault involves car bombs, drones, and heavy weapons, resulting in numerous casualties
- Fighting displaces thousands of families and disrupts aid services
- International stakeholders, including Russia and Iran, express concerns over the escalation
Rebels Launch Surprise Assault on Aleppo
In a shocking turn of events, Syrian rebel forces have launched a surprise assault on Aleppo, marking the first major attack on the city by opposition forces since 2016. The offensive, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has seen thousands of insurgents advance toward Syria’s second-largest city, capturing over 50 towns and villages along the way. This bold move represents the largest advance by opposition factions in recent times, potentially reshaping the landscape of the ongoing Syrian conflict.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported the use of car bombs in the assault, while Turkey’s Anadolu Agency confirmed the rebels’ entry into the city center. This development has caught many off guard, including government forces who were reportedly unprepared for such a large-scale offensive. The fighting has quickly become the most intense in northwestern Syria since 2020, with both sides suffering significant casualties.
HISTORIC footage of Syrian rebels entering Aleppo today. pic.twitter.com/N39RSruU3F
— Clash Report (@clashreport) November 29, 2024
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
As the battle for Aleppo intensifies, the humanitarian situation in the region continues to deteriorate. Thousands of families have been displaced by the fighting, and aid services have been severely disrupted. The violence has resulted in at least 255 deaths, mostly fighters, with 24 civilian casualties reported, primarily from Russian airstrikes. Public transportation routes in Aleppo have been altered to avoid clashes, further complicating daily life for residents caught in the crossfire.
The Idlib region, which remains the last major opposition stronghold, houses over four million people, many of whom are displaced and living in poor conditions. Opposition fighters claim their offensive will allow displaced people to return, but the reality on the ground paints a grim picture of escalating violence and humanitarian challenges.
International Reactions and Implications
The sudden escalation in Aleppo has drawn significant international attention, with key stakeholders weighing in. Iran’s foreign minister blamed the offensive on a “US-Zionist plan,” while Russia expressed hope for a quick restoration of order. A Kremlin spokesman stated that they support the Syrian government’s efforts to “restore order” and sovereignty in Aleppo.
Notably, Hezbollah, a key ally of the Syrian government, is currently engaged in a conflict with Israel, potentially affecting their involvement in Syria. This development could have significant implications for the balance of power in the region and the ongoing peace efforts in Syria. The Syrian government has accused the insurgents of violating a 2019 de-escalation agreement, further complicating the diplomatic landscape.
A Fragile Ceasefire and Ongoing Violations
Despite reports of a ceasefire agreement, both sides have allegedly breached the truce. The Idlib region has been under a Turkey and Russia-brokered truce since 2020, which has been repeatedly violated. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported 23 air strikes by Syrian and Russian planes on Aleppo and its surrounding countryside, highlighting the fragility of any peace agreements in the region.
