Mon Dec 02 13:20:26 UTC 2024: ## Joint Syrian-Russian Airstrikes Kill Civilians in Idlib Amid Major Rebel Offensive

**Idlib, Syria** – Joint Syrian and Russian airstrikes have pounded residential areas in Idlib city, causing widespread destruction and killing numerous civilians. The attacks come as Syrian government forces struggle to contain a significant rebel offensive that has dramatically shifted front lines in the country’s ongoing civil war.

A coalition of Syrian opposition groups, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), launched a major offensive last week, making significant gains against government forces and seizing much of the city of Tel Rifaat. While the pace of the advance has slowed slightly in the past 24 hours due to increased diplomatic efforts, opposition fighters remain on the outskirts of Hama and have called for a humanitarian corridor in Tel Rifaat to facilitate the safe evacuation of Kurds.

In response to the rebel advance, the Syrian government, backed by Russia and Iran, has intensified airstrikes in Idlib and Aleppo. Dozens of Iran-backed militias from Iraq have also crossed into Syria to reinforce government defenses. Iran has pledged continued military support, while Russian air support remains crucial to the Syrian government’s efforts.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that Turkey continues to support Syria’s territorial integrity and advocates for compromise between the government and opposition, rejecting claims of foreign interference in the conflict. However, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad accused the opposition offensive of serving US interests aimed at redrawing the regional map.

The opposition, meanwhile, remains defiant. Istanbul-based opposition leader Hadi al-Bahri pledged to continue fighting until a political transition is agreed upon, expressing a willingness to negotiate.

Experts have highlighted the significance of the rebel advance, describing it as the most significant shift in years. The success of the rebel operation, however, hinges on the extent of further military intervention from Russia and Iran. The situation remains highly volatile and the humanitarian consequences of the ongoing conflict are severe.

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