Mon Dec 02 12:27:25 UTC 2024: ## Syrian Rebels Launch Major Offensive, Threatening Regional Stability

**BEIRUT, December 2, 2024** – A major rebel offensive in Syria has shaken the region, raising concerns of a wider conflict. Insurgents, led by the jihadi group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, launched a two-pronged attack on Aleppo and surrounding areas last week, seizing the city and pushing into Idlib and Hama provinces. This marks one of the rebels’ most significant advances in years.

The offensive comes as regional tensions are already high, with Israel battling Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. The Syrian government, backed by Iranian-backed Iraqi militias and Russia, is fighting back. Iran has pledged full support to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, sending military advisors and additional forces across the border. Iraqi militias have also deployed to bolster Assad’s army, with reports of 200 crossing into Syria overnight.

The Syrian government claims its airstrikes, conducted in conjunction with Russia, have killed 400 insurgents in the past 24 hours and are mobilizing to encircle the rebels. However, the Syrian Civil Defence reports at least 10 civilian deaths in Idlib from the ongoing airstrikes. The fighting has also caused a mass exodus of Syrian Kurds from Tel Rifaat after it was seized by Turkish-backed rebels. The Syrian Democratic Forces have withdrawn and called for a humanitarian corridor.

The conflict has prompted increased security measures in neighboring Iraq, where troops have been deployed along the Syrian border to prevent spillover. Russia, a key Assad ally, has affirmed its continued support, stating it will work to stabilize the situation. The rebel advance represents a significant setback for Assad and his allies, who are already entangled in other conflicts.

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