The recent military gains by the armed opposition highlight the ongoing volatility in the Syrian conflict, particularly in the northwestern regions where control is frequently contested.
The operation underscores the strategic importance of the Aleppo countryside, both for the regime and opposition forces, as it serves as a critical buffer zone and a potential gateway to the city of Aleppo itself.
The involvement of multiple factions, including Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham, indicates a complex landscape of alliances and rivalries among opposition groups, which could influence future military operations.
The ongoing clashes may lead to further escalations in military engagements between the opposition and regime forces, particularly if the opposition continues to gain territory.
Increased airstrikes by Russian and Syrian forces could result in higher civilian casualties and displacement in the affected areas, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.
The situation may prompt international responses, particularly from countries involved in the Syrian conflict, as the balance of power shifts in favor of the opposition.
The armed opposition in northwestern Syria has successfully taken control of military sites and several towns in the western Aleppo countryside following intense battles with Syrian regime forces. The operation, named 'Battle to Deter Aggression,' resulted in the capture of the 46th Regiment, the largest military site of the regime in the area, along with 17 villages and towns including Qubtan al-Jabal and Ainjara.
During the operation, the opposition forces reportedly killed over 40 regime soldiers and captured multiple military assets, including tanks and a missile depot. This advance positions the opposition approximately 10 kilometers from the city of Aleppo, raising concerns about potential escalations in the ongoing conflict.
In response to the opposition's advances, Russian and Syrian regime aircraft have conducted airstrikes on the newly captured areas, while artillery shelling has intensified in the region. The clashes mark a significant shift in the dynamics of control in the Aleppo countryside, which had seen a period of relative calm interrupted by sporadic shelling.
