Insurgents seize control of Aleppo after years of calm

In November 2024, insurgents fighting against the regime of Bashar al-Assad have launched a significant assault on Syria's second city, Aleppo. This marks the first time since 2016 that opposition forces have attacked this strategically important location. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a leading jihadist group, is reportedly spearheading the offensive, aiming to reclaim control from government troops. Due to escalating violence, residents in western Aleppo have started to flee their neighborhoods as artillery exchanges and missile strikes intensify, with horrific reports indicating at least 27 civilian deaths, including eight children, due to the recent clashes. The Syrian army has issued statements claiming to have engaged insurgents in the surrounding regions of Aleppo and Idlib and asserting the destruction of several military assets. Although they seem currently unable to repel the assault effectively, the army has intensified further airstrikes in a bid to reclaim control over the contested areas. Noteworthy locations like the town of Saraqab, an area crucial for supply lines to Aleppo, have also witnessed fighting, adding another layer of complexity to the conflict. These recent advancements by the rebels come after a prolonged period of simmering violence in northwestern Syria, with the current intensity being the most significant seen since 2020. The conflict in Syria began when protests against Bashar al-Assad's rule erupted in 2011, leading to a civil war that has drawn in various international actors. Government forces had largely stabilized their control over Aleppo after a particularly grueling battle in 2016, which was aided by substantial backing from Russia and Iran. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitri Peskov condemned the recent insurgent actions, labeling them a violation of Syrian sovereignty. He urged the Syrian government to swiftly take action to restore order and re-establish what Russia perceives as constitutional authority in the conflicting region. The United Nations has voiced concerns over the rising civilian toll, emphasizing that protection of civilians and infrastructure is critical under international humanitarian law. The situation remains volatile, with both sides poised for continued engagements in a conflict that has profoundly affected the population of Syria.