Sat Nov 30 03:07:08 UTC 2024: ## Syrian Rebels Seize Parts of Aleppo in Major Offensive
**AMMAN, Nov 30, 2024** – Syrian rebels, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham Islamist militant group, launched a major offensive, seizing parts of Aleppo city on November 30th. The Syrian government responded by closing Aleppo airport and all roads leading into the city.
The rebels, who had been pushed out of Aleppo in 2016, launched a surprise attack on Wednesday, rapidly advancing through government-held towns. A rebel commander attributed their success to a shortage of Iranian-backed forces in the region, a consequence of recent Israeli strikes in the context of the ongoing Gaza war.
The rebels claim the offensive is a response to recent airstrikes on civilian areas in Idlib by the Syrian and Russian air forces. While opposition sources suggest Turkey tacitly approved the operation, the Turkish foreign ministry denies providing support and expresses concern about regional instability. This marks the largest offensive since a 2020 ceasefire agreement between Russia and Turkey.
The Syrian government denies the rebels have reached the city center, claiming the military is pushing back and that Russia is providing air support. However, three military sources confirmed the rebel advance and the government’s withdrawal orders from affected areas. Russia has pledged additional military aid to Syria, with new equipment expected within 72 hours.
The conflict has already caused significant civilian casualties. The UN reports at least 27 civilian deaths, including children, while Syrian state media reports four additional civilian deaths from rebel shelling. The Kremlin condemned the rebel advance as a violation of Syria’s sovereignty, calling for the Syrian government to restore order. The escalating situation raises serious concerns about a further deterioration of the conflict.
First Piper 