Syrian Opposition Gains Ground Amidst Ongoing Conflict
The Syrian opposition factions have reported significant advances in the northern regions of the country, particularly around Aleppo. They announced complete control over the Nayrab military airport and the military infantry school in the northern Aleppo countryside. This marks a notable shift in the conflict, as the opposition has managed to gain control over key strategic locations, including seven areas in the Hama countryside. The military operations department of the opposition stated that their campaign, named 'Deterrence of Aggression,' has successfully extended their control over Idlib province and parts of Aleppo.
Despite these claims, the Syrian Ministry of Defense has denied the opposition's advances, asserting that their forces are mobilizing to encircle what they refer to as 'terrorists.' The ministry reported that recent operations, in coordination with Russian forces, have resulted in the deaths of over 400 individuals labeled as terrorists, including foreign fighters. The Syrian government continues to dismiss the opposition's claims as propaganda.
Airstrikes and Civilian Casualties
The conflict has escalated with airstrikes conducted by Russian and Syrian warplanes, which have reportedly resulted in civilian casualties in northwest Syria. The Civil Defense group, known as the 'White Helmets,' reported that airstrikes targeted multiple health facilities in Idlib, leading to the deaths of at least 25 individuals, including patients in hospitals. This increase in violence highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region, as civilians continue to bear the brunt of the conflict.
In a related development, the head of the Popular Mobilization Authority in Iraq, Faleh al-Fayyadh, has categorically denied reports of Iraqi fighters entering Syria to support Syrian forces. This statement comes amid claims from various sources that hundreds of fighters crossed the border to assist in the conflict against the opposition factions. Al-Fayyadh emphasized that the Popular Mobilization Forces operate solely within Iraq, countering narratives of their involvement in the Syrian conflict.
