What is happening in Syria? Why have the postponed wars flared up since 2020?
Sources report that militants in the last area outside government control in northern Syria launched a significant military operation against the Syrian army on Wednesday. They gained control of several regions, marking the first major progress in years.
A source from a coalition of armed groups led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham stated the attack occurred in at least ten areas held by Syrian government forces in Aleppo governorate. This advancement is the first since March 2020, when Russia and Turkey brokered a ceasefire, ending military conflicts in northwestern Syria.
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham is classified as a terrorist organization by the United States. It has faced ongoing attacks from Syrian and Russian forces.
Latest updates indicate that militants have moved to within 10 kilometers of Aleppo city and close to the towns of Nubul and al-Zahra, where Hezbollah, backed by Iran, has a considerable presence. The militants also targeted al-Nayrab airport, where armed groups allied with Tehran are stationed.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports that over 130 fighters from both sides have died in the recent clashes. The militants claimed their actions were in response to increased air attacks against civilians by Russian and Syrian forces near Idlib.
– How has the international community responded to the recent military operations in northern Syria?
Interview with Rami abdel Rahman, director of the syrian Observatory for Human Rights
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us, Mr. Rahman. Can you provide insight into the recent military operation launched by militants in northern Syria?
Rami Abdel Rahman: Thank you for having me. this operation marks a significant progress in the ongoing conflict. Militants led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham have made substantial gains, capturing territory from Syrian government forces in the Aleppo governorate. This is the first major offensive as the ceasefire brokered by Russia and Turkey in March 2020.
News Directory 3: What can you tell us about the scale of this operation and itS implications?
Rami Abdel Rahman: The attack targeted at least ten areas held by the Syrian government, showcasing both strategic planning and execution. The militants have advanced to within 10 kilometers of Aleppo city and are also closing in on towns like Nubul and al-Zahra, which raises concerns, especially given Hezbollah’s presence ther.
news Directory 3: You mentioned the potential external support for the militants. Can you elaborate on that?
Rami Abdel Rahman: Yes, I believe there’s reason to consider external influences. The timing of this escalation coincides with a ceasefire in Lebanon. Eastern European officers reportedly trained Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in drone operations before this uptick in conflict.Thes elements suggest a coordinated effort that may involve backing from countries such as the United States.
News directory 3: How have the Syrian and Russian forces responded to these developments?
Rami Abdel Rahman: The Syrian army has retaliated, conducting bombings in and around Idlib, particularly targeting areas like Jericho and Sarmada. It’s important to note that the recent clashes have led to significant casualties on both sides—over 130 fighters have died. Civilians are also affected, with many families fleeing toward the Turkish border to escape the violence.
News Directory 3: given the complexity of the situation, what do you think could happen in light of the incoming US administration?
Rami Abdel Rahman: this conflict’s dynamics are shifting, particularly if Turkey is involved, as it may seek to pressure the Syrian government for negotiations. The influence of the new US administration could also play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the region. Everyone is watching to see how these developments unfold, as control and power dynamics in northern Syria are once again in flux.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Mr. Rahman, for your insights on this pressing issue.
Rami Abdel Rahman: Thank you for having me.
A military source confirmed that the army retaliated by bombing areas surrounding Idlib, including the towns of Jericho and Sarmada. Many families have fled toward safer areas along the Turkish border.
Rami Abdel Rahman, director of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, emphasized the timing of the militants’ advance. He noted that this escalation might have been prepared with external support, possibly from countries like the United States. He observed the coincidence between a ceasefire in Lebanon and the new conflict in Idlib.
Rahman stated that Eastern European officers had trained Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in drone operations before the escalation. He suggested that if Turkey is involved, it may be trying to exert pressure on the Syrian government to enter negotiations.
As tensions rise, all eyes are on potential changes in control in the region, with many anticipating the influence of the incoming US administration.