Syrian Rebels Surge: HTS Captures Aleppo as Assad’s Forces Falter

Rebel groups in northern Syria have gained ground against President Bashar al-Assad’s government. Videos on social media show intense fighting in several major cities, including Damascus. The group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) captured Aleppo, Syria’s commercial center.

After years of stalemate, these developments change the situation in Syria, which has faced civil war since 2011. Assad’s military primarily relied on support from Russia and Iran-backed militias. Recently, these forces have weakened due to external pressures. Hezbollah suffers setbacks from Israeli actions, and Russia shifts resources to its conflict in Ukraine.

Reports from Saturday indicated that rebels had taken Western Aleppo. Footage showed armed fighters celebrating in the city. HTS, previously pushed to rural areas, received Turkish support and launched its offensive. Analysts suggest Turkey may now support HTS’s actions due to changing regional dynamics.

The Syrian military aims to regroup for a counterattack, but analysts doubt its effectiveness. Corruption and dependency on Iran hinder the army’s ability to hold territory. Despite the loss of Aleppo, Russia continues to support Assad’s military with airstrikes.

As the situation unfolds, President Assad’s whereabouts remain unclear, and the U.S. has not publicly responded. Experts express concern over instability and the potential rise of radical groups in ungoverned areas. The need for a comprehensive solution in Syria has grown more urgent.