The liberation of Aleppo signifies a potential shift in power dynamics within Syria, challenging the Assad regime's narrative of control and dominance.
The event highlights the fragility of the Iranian influence in Syria, as the regime's reliance on Iranian support has been questioned due to recent setbacks.
The complexities of governance in Aleppo post-liberation pose significant challenges, including the need for effective security, basic services, and political representation.
The liberation of Aleppo may lead to increased regional cooperation aimed at stabilizing Syria and countering Iranian influence.
The situation could prompt a reevaluation of international strategies regarding Syria, particularly concerning humanitarian aid and political engagement.
If governance challenges are addressed effectively, Aleppo could become a model for rebuilding and political representation in liberated areas.
On November 29, 2024, Aleppo, Syria's largest city and economic capital, was liberated from the control of the regime led by President Bashar al-Assad. This significant event marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing Syrian conflict, as Aleppo has been a focal point of contention since the Assad family seized power in 1970. The liberation is seen as a necessary step to restore balance in the Syrian political landscape, especially as Assad's regime has recently regained some regional support, leading to concerns about its ability to govern effectively. The liberation of Aleppo, which houses a quarter of Syria's population and a third of its economy, complicates Assad's narrative of control and opens the door for a more serious political solution to the conflict.
The military operations leading to Aleppo's liberation were well-planned, capitalizing on a moment of weakness for Assad's forces, particularly following defeats suffered by Iranian and Hezbollah militias. The rebels' strong motivation to achieve victory after a prolonged period of setbacks played a crucial role in their success. The regime's complacency, stemming from a false sense of security since a 2020 de-escalation agreement, allowed the rebels to execute their strategy effectively. The element of surprise was also a key factor, as the regime did not anticipate an offensive targeting Aleppo.
