The conflict in Aleppo represents a significant turning point in the Syrian civil war, as it marks the first major rebel offensive in the city since they were ousted in 2016.
The involvement of Russian airstrikes indicates a renewed commitment to support the Assad regime, potentially escalating tensions with other regional players such as Turkey and Israel.
If the current trend continues, we may see a prolonged conflict in Aleppo, with further civilian casualties and displacement.
The potential for increased Iranian and Hezbollah involvement could lead to a wider regional conflict, drawing in other nations and complicating the situation further.
The Syrian army, supported by the Russian Aerospace Force, has launched a significant offensive against jihadist rebels in Aleppo, marking a critical escalation in the ongoing conflict. According to reports from the Russian Defense Ministry and local sources, the rebels, primarily from the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham organization, have made substantial territorial gains, controlling large parts of Aleppo and forcing the Syrian army to redeploy its forces. The situation has led to a mass exodus of civilians from Aleppo to rural areas of Idlib, with tens of thousands fleeing amid fears of intensified violence.
The Syrian army has publicly acknowledged the heavy toll of the rebel attacks, confirming that dozens of its soldiers have been killed. This acknowledgment highlights the severity of the situation, as the rebels have managed to penetrate deep into government-controlled areas, prompting a reorganization of Syrian military defenses. The army's statement indicates that while the rebels have gained ground, they have not yet established permanent positions due to ongoing bombardments from government forces.
In a broader context, the conflict has drawn international attention, with Israeli intelligence monitoring developments closely. Concerns are rising over the potential for Hezbollah and Iranian forces to bolster the Assad regime in response to the rebel advances. The situation remains fluid, with the possibility of further escalations as various factions vie for control in the region.
