Aleppo, a city once at the heart of Syria's civil war, has again become a focal point of conflict. For the first time since 2016, Russian jets have bombed the city, targeting areas controlled by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a Syrian al-Qaeda affiliate, and its allies. HTS has launched a swift offensive from Idlib, rapidly gaining control of significant portions of Aleppo, including government centers and prisons.
The rebels' surprise attack has forced thousands to flee their homes, seeking refuge in rural regions or other cities. Despite the rebels' advances, Syrian government forces have shown minimal resistance, with reports indicating no substantial battles in some areas. Russian airstrikes, however, have resulted in civilian casualties, as confirmed by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and various news agencies.
The situation is further complicated by the involvement of Turkish-backed rebels and the broader geopolitical context. Russia, while reducing its military presence in Syria due to its focus on Ukraine, continues to support the Syrian government. Meanwhile, increased Israeli strikes on Iranian forces in Syria add another layer of complexity to the region's unrest.
The battle for Aleppo represents one of the most intense episodes in the ongoing Syrian civil war, with millions of Syrians displaced and seeking asylum abroad. The international community watches closely as the conflict unfolds, with no clear political resolution in sight. As the city endures renewed violence, the humanitarian crisis deepens, underscoring the urgent need for peace and stability in the region.
