The rebels' capture of Aleppo represents a significant shift in the Syrian conflict, highlighting the ongoing volatility in the region.
The offensive underscores the complex relationships between various factions, including Turkish-backed rebels, Iranian forces, and the Assad regime.
Humanitarian crises continue to escalate as violence disrupts civilian life and displaces thousands.
If the rebels maintain control of Aleppo, it could lead to a shift in the balance of power in northern Syria.
Increased military support from Turkey for the rebels may further complicate the situation for the Assad regime and its allies.
Continued Russian airstrikes may not be sufficient to reverse the gains made by the rebels in Aleppo.
Syrian Rebels Capture Aleppo: A New Offensive Unfolds
In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict in Syria, Syrian rebels have officially captured Aleppo, the country's second-largest city, after a rapid offensive that began on November 27, 2024. This marks the first time since 2016 that rebel forces have gained control of the city, which had been under the regime of President Bashar al-Assad and his allies, including Russia and Iran, for several years. The coalition of rebels, primarily led by the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), launched a surprise attack on government-held areas, quickly advancing through the city and surrounding regions.
The offensive has resulted in the rebels taking control of significant portions of Aleppo, with reports indicating that they now control approximately half of the city. This rapid advance was facilitated by a perceived weakness in the Syrian regime's defenses, particularly following recent losses suffered by Iranian-backed forces due to Israeli attacks in the region. The rebels' success has been attributed to months of preparation and a strategic decision to act during a period of perceived vulnerability for the Assad regime.
The Regional Implications of the Offensive
The timing of the rebels' offensive coincided with a ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel, suggesting a calculated move to exploit the shifting dynamics in the region. Analysts have noted that the rebels viewed this moment as an opportunity to strike while Iranian influence appeared diminished and Turkish support for their operations was solidified. Darin Khalifa, a researcher at the International Crisis Group, emphasized that the rebels defined their actions as a defensive measure against escalating attacks from the Syrian regime and its allies.
As the situation unfolds, the Kremlin has expressed hope for a swift restoration of order in Aleppo, while Iranian officials have condemned the offensive as a conspiracy orchestrated by the United States and Israel. Turkey, which has historically supported the rebel factions, has called for an end to the attacks on Idlib, highlighting the complex interplay of regional powers in the ongoing conflict.
Humanitarian Concerns Amidst Renewed Violence
The renewed fighting has raised significant humanitarian concerns, with reports indicating that over 270 people have died, including civilians, since the offensive began. The United Nations has expressed alarm over the escalating violence, which has displaced thousands of people, particularly in the northwest regions of Syria. The Syrian army has reportedly been ordered to withdraw from key areas of Aleppo, while Russian airstrikes have targeted rebel positions in an attempt to regain control.
As the conflict continues to evolve, the situation in Aleppo serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace in Syria and the potential for further escalation. Observers are closely monitoring the developments, particularly the response of Turkey and the implications for Iranian and Russian involvement in the region.
