In a significant escalation of the Syrian conflict, Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) rebels launched a major attack on Aleppo, marking the most substantial challenge to President Bashar al-Assad’s regime in years. The Syrian army reported that dozens of soldiers were killed as rebels swiftly took control of large parts of the city, including Aleppo airport.
Responding to the rebel offensive, Russia’s Defense Ministry confirmed that its air force conducted strikes targeting rebel positions in Aleppo and Idlib provinces. The strikes aimed at militant concentrations, command posts, depots, and artillery positions, reportedly killing around 300 rebel fighters.
Aleppo, once firmly under government control since 2016, has witnessed renewed turmoil as rebel fighters gather in key city squares, challenging the status quo established after years of intense conflict. The Syrian military has announced plans for a counterattack, deploying forces to reinforce defense lines and protect civilians.
Amidst the chaos, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov engaged in discussions with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to address the deteriorating situation. Both parties expressed serious concerns and emphasized the need for coordinated actions to stabilize Syria.
The resurgence of rebel activity in Aleppo comes after a prolonged period of relative calm, raising questions about the future trajectory of the Syrian civil war, which has resulted in immense loss of life and displacement since its onset in 2011.
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Syrian rebels sweep into Aleppo, Russia strikes in support of Assad
cgtn.com
