Islamist rebels, previously confined in a mountainous region of the Syrian deserts, have now taken over central Aleppo, removing symbols of President Bashar al-Assad’s rule. This surprise offensive by insurgents has significantly shifted the power balance in Aleppo, posing a major challenge to Assad’s control in years.
Fighters from the militant Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) have captured large parts of the city, forcing Syrian army forces to retreat. Videos and images shared by a reporter from opposition television channel Aleppo Today showed militants in empty central squares, with one man expressing gratitude for being freed from prison. There were scenes of a statue being torn down and celebratory gunfire echoing through the streets.
The offensive led by HTS also resulted in the seizure of a vital military base to the south and control of Saraqib, a strategic location on the road to Damascus. Turkish-backed Syrian rebels launched their own operation against Kurdish militants and government forces in an attempt to take over a military airport to the east of Aleppo.
The sudden insurgent victory in Aleppo indicates a significant change in control of major urban areas in Syria and challenges the authority of President Assad. The fall of Aleppo to the Syrian government in 2016 marked a turning point in the civil war that followed the uprising against Assad in 2011.
The militants’ ability to hold onto the territory they have captured raises questions about their governance and long-term prospects. While they have demonstrated some ability to rule in Idlib province, concerns remain about their treatment of dissent and reliance on international aid.
Analysts suggest that the insurgents’ ability to maintain their gains will depend on the response from Damascus and its allies. The situation in Aleppo could potentially spark uprisings in other parts of Syria, although the militants may focus on expanding the battlefield rather than establishing a conventional governing authority in the immediate future.
Overall, the unexpected offensive in Aleppo has raised concerns about the future of the region and the ongoing conflict in Syria. The shifting dynamics on the ground indicate a complex and volatile situation that could have far-reaching consequences for the country and its people.
