Syria is embroiled in a renewed conflict as Islamist rebels, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), make significant territorial gains. Supported by Turkey, these rebels have taken control of key areas including Aleppo. President Bashar al-Assad's regime is under considerable strain, relying heavily on allies such as Iran and Russia for military support. Iranian-backed Iraqi militias have also entered the fray, bolstering Assad's forces against the advancing jihadists.
Despite this support, the Assad regime faces a formidable challenge as Russian airstrikes aim to halt the rebel advance, leading to high civilian casualties. The situation is dire, with reports of over 440 deaths in recent clashes, including more than 60 civilians. Kurdish forces find themselves besieged, caught between the advancing rebels and pro-Turkish groups, prompting efforts to evacuate Kurdish civilians.
Amid the chaos, calls for de-escalation have emerged from the international community, including the US, Germany, France, and the UK. However, the complex web of alliances and the involvement of various international actors continue to fuel the instability. As the conflict intensifies, Syria risks descending into further chaos, threatening regional stability.
