The latest conflict in Syria began on the morning of November 27 when opposition groups launched a major attack in the western countryside of Aleppo province. This attack marks one of the largest clashes between the Syrian government and opposition groups in eight years. Following the attack, the opposition forces captured several villages and towns in the western part of Aleppo, and later claimed control of much of the city.
In addition to this, the opposition also seized the strategically important town of Serakib in Idlib, with the aim of cutting off government supply lines. Currently, the opposition controls more than 70 regions in Aleppo and Idlib.
The attack was carried out by opposition groups led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which was previously linked to al-Qaeda but severed ties in 2015 to form its own independent entity in Idlib. HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani has increased the group’s military strength and regional influence in recent years. In the latest assault, it was noted that HTS had better training and more advanced weaponry, including night-vision scopes and drones.
Challenges faced by Russia in Ukraine and Iran in other regionals have created an opportunity for HTS to launch the attack
The assault on Aleppo came after increased pressure from government forces on opposition-held regions and was influenced by external factors. International experts suggest that the challenges faced by Russia in Ukraine and Iran’s involvement in other regional issues have created an opportunity for HTS to launch the attack.
Aleppo holds historical and strategic significance. After the outbreak of the civil war in 2011, the capture of Aleppo’s eastern districts by government forces in 2016 marked a turning point in the conflict. If the opposition succeeds in retaking the city, it could significantly change the course of the war.
Turkey, one of the main supporters of the opposition groups in Syria, continues to back them despite labeling HTS as a terrorist group since 2018. Turkey has been cautious in its diplomatic statements, emphasizing the importance of maintaining stability in Idlib and surrounding areas.
SYRIA: Attack on Aleppo as serving the plans of Israel and its supporters
The Syrian government has described the opposition’s attack on Aleppo as serving the plans of Israel and its supporters, and has called for Russian support. Russia, in turn, condemned the violation of Syrian sovereignty and urged the Assad government to restore order. Russian airstrikes have reportedly targeted Aleppo in response.
Iran reaffirmed its support for the Syrian government, describing the militants’ activities as part of an “American-Zionist conspiracy,” and announced that it would continue to support Assad alongside Russia.
The recent fighting has severely impacted Aleppo’s civilian population. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, more than 255 people have been killed, including 144 opposition fighters, 87 Syrian soldiers, and 24 civilians. Around 14,000 people have been displaced. A rocket attack on a student dormitory at Aleppo University killed four students and injured two others.
These developments could have a significant impact on the future of Syria’s civil war and the shifting power dynamics in the region. (ekonomim)
