Fierce Fighting in Aleppo: Four Civilians Killed in Attack on University Area

Four Civilians Killed in Aleppo Attack

According to Syria’s state news agency Sana, four civilians died in an attack on the university area in Aleppo. The report states, “Terrorist groups fired upon student housing in Aleppo.” The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) confirmed that artillery was used against the student residences. SOHR claims the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allied Turkish-backed factions were responsible. The attack caused material damage and panic among students.

Continued Fighting

The assault occurred a day after hundreds were killed in clashes in Idlib, where opposition fighters launched a major offensive against government-held areas. SOHR reported that over 50 villages in Aleppo and Idlib regions are now under HTS control. In total, 242 people have died in the fighting, mostly combatants.

Displacement and Violence

Fighting has forced 14,000 people to flee, with the most intense battles reported near Saraqeb. This area is crucial; if rebels gain control, they could manage the main route between Aleppo and Damascus.

Air Strikes Intensify

HTS controls large areas in northwest Syria. In response to the attacks, President Bashar al-Assad’s forces have used artillery and conducted air strikes. Over 60 air strikes have reportedly taken place against insurgents around Idlib and Aleppo since Wednesday. SOHR states at least 24 people have died from recent Russian air strikes.

History of the Conflict

The conflict in Syria began in March 2011 with peaceful protests against Assad. Government crackdowns escalated into a civil war, with various rebel groups fighting against the regime. The war has claimed around 618,000 lives, including nearly 165,000 civilians, as reported by SOHR. Millions have been displaced, with millions more needing humanitarian assistance.

Terror Designation

HTS is classified as a terrorist organization by the United States and Turkey. The group, once known as Nusra Front, has ties to al-Qaeda and competes with more moderate rebels supported by Turkey. These Turkish-backed groups control significant areas of Syrian territory along the border with Turkey.