In a quick-moving operation last friday‚ Syrian opposition forces broke into govt-controlled Aleppo — making history as the first rebel entry since mid-2010s. The swift-moving attack caught many by surprise
The operation was led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham militants (based in north-western Idlib region); their well-planned advance changed the war map for the first time in many years. This unexpected move brings new challenges to Bashar al-Assadʼs position in the region
The break-through into Syriaʼs biggest city — which stayed under tight government grip for about 10 years — shows how the civil war that started in early-2010s can still bring big changes. The militant groupʼs success in entering such a key urban area means the conflict might enter a different phase now; this could affect both local and regional stability