Rebel Gains in Aleppo Spark Renewed Conflict in Syria

The Syrian civil war has escalated following the rebel takeover of Aleppo, marking the first shift in control since 2016. The offensive led by Islamist rebels has prompted significant military responses from the Syrian government and Russia. The conflict’s resurgence raises concerns about regional stability amidst power struggles involving key international players like Turkey, Iran, and the United States.

The Syrian civil war has escalated dramatically following the capture of Aleppo by Islamist rebels from President Bashar al-Assad’s forces. This unexpected turn of events has reignited interest in the long-standing conflict, shifting frontlines that had been relatively static for years, with potentially significant ramifications for the greater Middle East region. The recent offensive began on November 26, leading to the rebels taking control of Aleppo on November 29-30, marking the first change in the city’s control since 2016, when government forces previously regained it with Russian and Iranian support.

Following the capture of Aleppo, the rebels have made additional advances in neighboring areas, specifically in Hama province. In response, the Syrian government has pledged to counter these gains, with Russia executing airstrikes to assist the Syrian military. The intensification of hostilities adds to the already staggering human toll of the conflict, which has seen hundreds of thousands killed and over half of Syria’s pre-war population displaced.

The rebel assault was spearheaded by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), previously linked to al Qaeda but now operating independently. HTS, which has been the predominant force in the Idlib region, was joined by another rebel faction that received backing from Turkey, coordinating their attacks under the Syrian National Army’s banner. Internationally, both Russia and the United States have labeled HTS as a terrorist organization.

This flare-up in violence occurs amidst a backdrop of shifting regional dynamics, particularly following recent conflicts involving Israel and Iran. U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan indicated that the rebellion capitalized on the perceived distractions faced by the Syrian government’s supporters, referring specifically to Iran, Russia, and Hezbollah’s current vulnerabilities. Despite attempts to stabilize the northwest through a deal between Russia and Turkey, Turkey’s dissatisfaction with Assad’s stance has heightened tensions.

The geopolitical landscape remains complicated, with Turkey concerned about the influence of Kurdish groups supported by the U.S. and deemed a threat by Ankara. Reports indicate that the Syrian National Army has recently taken territory from the Kurdish YPG militia, further complicating the conflict. Both Iran and Russia have emphasized their unwavering support for the Assad government, countering the recent rebel gains.

Although the United Nations Security Council passed a resolution in 2015 aimed at resolving the conflict through a new constitution and elections, progress has stagnated. U.N. Syria envoy Geir Pedersen acknowledged the failure to initiate a political process and called for substantive negotiations to address the current violence and seek a resolution.

The Syrian civil war began in 2011 amid uprisings against President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, initially gaining some attention and support. However, as fighting intensified, foreign powers became involved, leading to a complex and multifaceted conflict marked by shifting alliances and entrenched positions. Major players include Russia, Iran, Turkey, the U.S., and various militant groups, each with their own interests in the region. The recent capture of Aleppo by rebels reflects a significant shift in the power dynamics of the ongoing violence, emphasizing renewed conflict amid ongoing humanitarian crises.

The recent rebel gains in Aleppo signify a crucial moment in the Syrian civil war, with potentially widespread regional implications. The situation highlights the shifting allegiances and vulnerabilities among key players in the conflict, notably Iran, Russia, and Turkey. As the escalation continues, calls for a renewed political process remain urgent, yet tangible progress has yet to be realized amidst the complex interplay of local and international interests.

Original Source: www.france24.com