Syrian rebels take over Aleppo in unexpected turn of events
Syrian opposition forces gained control of Aleppo in a quick offensive that started last week. This shift marks the first change in city control since 2016 and brings new dynamics to the long-running conflict
In a quick-moving operation Syrian rebels took control of Aleppo last week — the first such power-shift in this key city since about seven years ago. The offensive which started on nov 26th caught many by surprise and led to government forces pull-out within just three days
The main force behind this attack is Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (a group that broke ties with al-Qaeda in 2016); they pushed from north-western areas alongside other rebel groups. The Syrian National Army (backed by Turkey) joined the fight from northern positions: taking new ground and pushing against Kurdish-held areas
The timing of this attack connects to wider middle-east issues — with Syrias main supporters dealing with other problems. Russia focuses on its Ukraine operation; while Iran-backed Hezbollah has been busy with Israel-related issues. Jake Sullivan US security advisor pointed to this situation:
These rebels saw an opportunity with Syrian governments main supporters being distracted
Turkey which has troops in north-west Syria shows mixed reactions to these events. Their foreign minister Hakan Fidan wants both sides to find common ground; however Turkish officials dont like how Syrian forces keep hitting rebel positions
The Syrian government and its allies (Russia and Iran) promise to fight back — Russian planes already started air-strikes in the area. This new phase adds to a conflict that started about twelve years ago and forced over half of Syrias 23-million pre-war population to leave their homes
