Syrian Rebels Take Aleppo, Dealing Embarrassing Blow to Assad Regime
Aleppo, Syria – In a stunning turn of events, Syrian rebels have retaken control of Aleppo, Syria’s largest city, after a swift and unexpected offensive. The recapture of this major city, once a key battleground in the brutal decade-long civil war, marks a significant setback for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and exposes the vulnerability of his regime.
The rebels, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group formerly affiliated with al-Qaeda, launched their surprise attack on November 27 and swiftly overwhelmed the weakened government forces, who retreated rapidly from the city. By November 29, Aleppo was firmly in rebel hands.
"We were very surprised at how quickly they fled, how they abandoned us," said Aleppo resident Ahmad Tutenji, describing the unsettling speed of the government’s withdrawal.
This unexpected victory highlights the increasingly precarious situation facing the Syrian government. While Assad has regained control of much of the country since 2020, aided by Russian airstrikes and Iranian backing, his allies are increasingly preoccupied with their own regional crises.
Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, the brutal conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, and escalating tensions between Iran and Western powers have stretched the resources of Assad’s allies thin. Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group also allied with Assad, appears to be particularly preoccupied with the escalating conflict in Gaza, leaving the defense perimeter around Aleppo vulnerable.
"The development of this situation will have major impacts on civilians, regional and international security," United Nations Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen warned.
The capture of Aleppo by rebels is a stark reminder of the enduring fragility of the Syrian situation. While it is unclear if this represents a turning point in the conflict, it undoubtedly represents a major embarrassment for Assad and a substantial challenge to his grip on power.
Fierce fighting is already ongoing in Idlib province, the last major rebel stronghold, as Syrian government forces and Russian warplanes retaliate with airstrikes. "Reuters" reported that local rescuers in Idlib confirmed at least seven civilian deaths and dozens injured.
The Syrian government and Russia deny targeting civilians, but the airstrikes have impacted densely populated areas, including a Franciscan monastery in Aleppo, according to Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani.
"The only language the terrorists know is that of strength, and we will use this language to suppress them," Assad proclaimed.
While the rebels celebrate their victory and advance towards Khansir, a strategic town aimed at cutting off Aleppo’s government supply routes, the future of the Syrian civil war remains uncertain. The capture of Aleppo serves as a stark reminder of the conflict’s chaotic and unpredictable nature.
For the millions of Syrian refugees displaced by the ongoing war, the latest developments offer little hope for a swift resolution to the decade-long conflict.
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2024-12-02 04:35:00
## Aleppo Retaken: A Turning Point in Syria’s Endless War?
**World Today News Exclusive Interview with Dr. Layla Hakim,Middle East Security Expert**
**World Today News (WTN):** Dr. Hakim, the recapture of Aleppo by syrian rebels is a monumental growth. what are the immediate implications of this victory?
**dr. Layla Hakim:** This is undoubtedly a major blow to the Assad regime, both symbolically and strategically. Aleppo has been a major prize for both sides, its loss representing a critically important loss of prestige and control for Assad.The speed and apparent ease with which the rebels retook the city suggests a weakening of government forces, potentially paving the way for further rebel advances.
**WTN:** Some analysts are predicting this could be a turning point in the Syrian Civil War. Do you agree?
**Dr. Hakim:** It’s certainly possible. The momentum has undeniably shifted in favor of the rebels. However, it’s crucial to remember that this war is incredibly complex, with numerous factions and external actors involved. While this victory is significant, it doesn’t necessarily guarantee a rebel victory in the long term.The Assad regime still enjoys considerable support from russia and Iran, and they are unlikely to relinquish control without a fierce fight.
**WTN:** What impact could this have on the wider region?
**Dr. Hakim:** The instability in Syria has already spilled across borders,fueling conflicts in neighboring countries like Lebanon and Iraq. A rebel victory in Aleppo could further destabilize the region, potentially leading to increased refugee flows and cross-border clashes.
**WTN:** What are the humanitarian concerns following this latest development?
**Dr. Hakim:** The situation in Aleppo is dire. Civilians have borne the brunt of the conflict for years, enduring immense suffering and displacement. The recapture of the city by rebels, while potentially liberating some from Assad’s control, does not automatically translate to safety and security. The fighting has left behind widespread destruction and a critical humanitarian crisis which will require urgent international attention and assistance.
**WTN:** What needs to happen now to achieve a lasting peace in Syria?
**Dr. Hakim:** A political solution, involving all relevant parties, is essential to ending this devastating conflict. This will require difficult compromises and a commitment to dialog from all sides. The international community must play a more active role in facilitating negotiations and holding all actors accountable for their actions.
**WTN:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Hakim.
