Rebel Group Takes Control of Aleppo as Syrian Army Withdraws

Monday 02 December 2024 - 12:13

By: Dakir Madiha

Rebel Group Takes Control of Aleppo as Syrian Army Withdraws

Aleppo, Syria’s northwestern city, has witnessed intense fighting as members of the Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) rebel group launched a major offensive, forcing the Syrian army to withdraw after holding control for over eight years. This marks the most intense fighting in the region since 2020, as HTS forces swept into the city, challenging the Syrian government's dominance. Since 2016, Aleppo had been under the control of President Bashar al-Assad’s forces, with Russian support reinforcing their position.

In response to the rebel advance, Russia’s Ministry of Defense conducted airstrikes in the regions of Idlib and Hama, reinforcing Assad's position. Syria’s military confirmed the temporary retreat of its troops from Aleppo and reported casualties, including dozens of soldiers either killed or wounded. The government referred to the rebels as "armed terrorist organizations."

Who Are the Rebels?

Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham, previously known as Jabhat al-Nusra, has been a key player in the Syrian conflict. Established in 2011 as an affiliate of Al-Qaeda, it separated from the group in 2016 under the leadership of Abu Mohammed al-Jawlani, who renamed it Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham. Since then, HTS has been an influential force in the region, advocating for the removal of Assad's government and contributing to the ongoing turmoil.

The Syrian civil war, ignited in 2011, began with protests sparked by political repression and economic hardship. Inspired by the Arab Spring uprisings, these protests intensified after the government’s violent crackdown on demonstrators, which led to escalating violence. This conflict has evolved into a complex war involving multiple factions, both domestic and international, resulting in a prolonged humanitarian crisis.