Syrian Rebels Enter Aleppo After Eight Years: Renewed Conflict Poses Major Challenge for Assad

For the first time since 2016, armed rebels have entered Aleppo, sparking intense clashes with Syrian government forces. The offensive marks one of the most significant challenges to President Bashar Assad’s regime in years, reigniting global attention on Syria’s 13-year-long civil war.

Key Developments

On Friday, rebels launched an assault on Aleppo, Syria’s largest city and a historic commercial hub, leading to violent confrontations with Assad’s forces. Reports indicate over 200 fatalities in the renewed fighting, according to AFP. This marks the first large-scale opposition attack since Russian airstrikes helped Assad recapture the city in 2016.

The rebels’ advance, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), highlights ongoing instability in Syria. HTS, designated a terrorist organization by the US and UN, was previously al-Qaida’s Syrian affiliate but has shifted its focus to governance in territories under its control.

Why This Matters

The Aleppo offensive could significantly alter the balance of power in Syria. While Assad controls around 70% of the country, the remaining areas are held by opposition factions and foreign forces. Turkey and the US play pivotal roles, with Turkey backing opposition groups and the US maintaining around 900 troops in northeastern Syria.

The conflict’s impact extends beyond Syria, contributing to regional instability. The renewed violence coincides with heightened tensions in the Middle East, including the Israel-Hamas war and US-backed clashes with Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Regional and Global Implications

The escalating conflict risks drawing in major powers like Russia and Turkey, each with strategic interests in Syria. Syrian rebels, emboldened by geopolitical developments such as Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah and Syrian military positions, are seizing the opportunity to challenge Assad’s rule.

Broader Consequences

The civil war has resulted in over half a million deaths and displaced 6.8 million Syrians, with widespread repercussions, including a surge in anti-immigration sentiment across Europe. As the situation in Aleppo evolves, it has the potential to reshape Syria’s power dynamics and deepen instability in the region.