Syrian rebels have launched a surprise offensive in Aleppo, successfully capturing key areas after nearly a decade of control by Assad’s forces. The assault is attributed to a reduction in Iran-backed troop presence due to recent conflicts. Civilian casualties have raised international concern as the situation deteriorates, with U.N. officials emphasizing the need for humanitarian protections amid the violence.
In an unexpected offensive, Syrian rebels, led by the Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have reportedly captured key areas in Aleppo, nearly a decade after being expelled from the city. The assault began on Wednesday, targeting several towns and villages under government control, attributed to a decrease in manpower among Iran-backed forces amid recent regional conflicts. By late Friday, rebel sources indicated that they were advancing through various neighborhoods of Aleppo, posing a significant challenge to President Bashar al-Assad’s forces.
This attack marks the most substantial military engagement in Aleppo since March 2020, following a de-escalation agreement between Russia and Turkey. Despite rebel claims of success, the Syrian military remains adamant about repelling the offensive, asserting that they are inflicting heavy losses on the insurgents. The situation has resulted in grave concerns over civilian casualties, with reports indicating the deaths of at least 27 civilians, including children.
Simultaneously, the international community, represented by officials such as U.N. Deputy Regional Humanitarian Coordinator David Carden, has voiced alarm at the human toll of the ongoing violence. Carden emphasized that civilians must be protected in accordance with International Humanitarian Law. Meanwhile, as hostilities escalate, the Kremlin has condemned the rebel advances, labeling them a violation of Syrian sovereignty, and advocated for swift action to restore order.
The ongoing Syrian civil war, which erupted in March 2011, has seen significant shifts in power dynamics, especially in cities like Aleppo, which was once a rebel stronghold. By late 2016, the Assad regime had regained control over Aleppo through a strategic offensive characterized by relentless bombardments and sieges. Recently, events have been catalyzed by decreased support for Assad from Iranian forces due to serious losses against Israeli military operations. This has provided an opportunity for the remaining rebels to make significant advances, supported potentially by tacit Turkish approval, although Turkey has publicly expressed concerns about potential instability in the region.
The recent rebel offensive in Aleppo represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing Syrian conflict, underlining the fragility of the current military balance. Despite claims of success, the Syrian government maintains that it is countering the offensive effectively. The humanitarian implications of this resurgence in hostilities are dire, with civilian casualties rising and international calls for protection underscoring the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis in Syria.
Original Source: www.usatoday.com
