Syrian rebels launch largest offensive since 2020
In a significant escalation of the Syrian conflict, rebel forces led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham launched a major offensive in northwestern Syria, marking the largest military operation since March 2020. The insurgents advanced into multiple towns and villages across Aleppo province, capturing territory and military vehicles from government forces.
UN Deputy Regional Humanitarian Coordinator David Carden reported that the three-day surge in violence claimed 27 civilian lives, including eight children, prompting deep concern from international observers. The offensive breached the Russia-Turkey brokered ceasefire agreement of 2020, which had previously maintained relative stability in the region.
In response to the rebel advance, Russian and Syrian warplanes conducted airstrikes near the Turkish border, attempting to halt the insurgent gains. The Syrian military claims to have inflicted heavy casualties on the rebels in both Aleppo and Idlib countryside, though rebel forces maintain control of their newly captured positions.
The rebels justified their campaign as a response to increased Russian and Syrian airstrikes against civilians in southern Idlib and as a preemptive measure against potential Syrian army operations. They reported that over 80 civilians had been killed this year in drone strikes on rebel-held areas.
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, designated as a terrorist organization by the United States and Turkey, maintains significant influence in the region, competing with Turkish-backed rebel groups for control of territory along the Turkish border. The Syrian government maintains its position that the offensive targets al Qaeda-inspired militants, denying accusations of civilian targeting.
Turkey, which supports some rebel factions in the northwest, has yet to comment on the situation. The violence threatens to unravel the delicate balance established by the 2020 ceasefire agreement, raising concerns about a potential broader regional destabilization and further civilian casualties.
