Syrian rebels now control most of Aleppo city, according to a war monitor, marking a major development in the ongoing conflict. Reports emerged on Saturday of air strikes targeting parts of Aleppo for the first time since 2016.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based monitor, stated that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allied groups “seized control of most government buildings, prisons, and significant areas of the city.” HTS is an alliance that includes factions previously linked to Daesh.
Ongoing Clashes and Rising Death Toll
Rebels launched a swift offensive against government forces starting Wednesday, coinciding with the implementation of a fragile ceasefire in Lebanon between Hezbollah and other factions after two months of conflict.
Overnight air raids targeted Aleppo, breaking a seven-year pause in aerial bombardments. The Observatory reported that clashes over the past few days have resulted in 311 deaths, including:
- 183 fighters from HTS and Turkish-backed groups
- 100 pro-government soldiers
- 28 civilians
State media reported that four civilians died when HTS forces shelled a student dormitory in Aleppo.
Aleppo’s Strategic Importance
Aleppo remains a key battleground due to its strategic location and symbolic importance. Militias loyal to the government have a strong presence in the area, having played a crucial role in reclaiming rebel-held parts of the city in 2016.
However, the Observatory noted a significant development, stating that “the governor of Aleppo and key security officials have withdrawn from the city centre.”
Rebel Reinforcements and Escalation
The renewed clashes coincide with the arrival of large reinforcements for rebel factions in Aleppo. This escalation has led to a rapidly changing situation on the ground, with fears of further casualties and displacement among civilians.
With the return of air strikes and the shifting control of Aleppo, the conflict’s dynamics in Syria continue to evolve, leaving residents bracing for more uncertainty.
