Jihadist Groups Launch Deadly Offensive Against Syrian Regime, Control Parts of Aleppo
Jihadist Groups Launch Offensive in Syria
On Wednesday, jihadist groups initiated an offensive against the Syrian regime. The fighting has been the deadliest since 2020. By Friday, the rebels gained control of parts of Aleppo.
Major powers are now reacting. Sean Savett, spokesperson for the National Security Council (NSA), stated that Syria’s reliance on Russia and Iran, along with its refusal to advance the UN peace process since 2015, has contributed to the current situation. He clarified that the United States is not involved in this offensive, which is led by Hay’at Tahir al-Sham (HTS).
HTS, previously known as the Nusra Front, is on the terrorist list of the USA, Russia, and Turkey.
Background on the Syrian Civil War
Last week, jihadists and allied rebels entered Aleppo for the first time since 2016. The fighting has resulted in the highest number of casualties since Russia and Turkey agreed to a ceasefire in Idlib in 2020. Russia, Iran, and the Lebanese Hezbollah have supported Assad’s regime since the civil war began in 2012. Peaceful protests against Assad in 2011 led to severe crackdowns, resulting in ongoing conflict.
Current Situation in Aleppo
The rebels appear to have faced little resistance when entering parts of Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city. However, with few independent journalists on the ground, information remains uncertain. The Syrian government claims there have been skirmishes in the countryside around Aleppo and Idlib, accusing the rebels of spreading misinformation.
Some reports indicate that the rebels might advance toward Damascus, but this has not been confirmed. Eyewitnesses shared that residents are fleeing from the outskirts of Aleppo due to rocket attacks.
Casualty Reports
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports that over 300 people, including civilians, have died since the uprising began on Wednesday. Russian defense officials confirmed that their air force has targeted Syrian rebels in support of the Assad regime.
International Reactions
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has communicated with his Turkish counterpart, discussing the dire developments in Syria. Both sides expressed serious concerns about the situation. Sources indicate that Russia has promised additional military support to Damascus.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi plans to visit Damascus soon. Iran and Russia continue to support Assad’s regime. The offensive in Syria coincided with a ceasefire that began between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.