Syrian rebels have reached the outskirts of Aleppo in their largest advance in years, penetrating three neighborhoods following a surprise offensive. Intense airstrikes by the Syrian government and Russian forces have retaliated against opposition-held areas, including Idlib.
Syrian rebels have achieved significant territorial gains by reaching the outskirts of Aleppo, marking their most prominent advance in several years. This operation follows a surprise offensive that persisted for a third consecutive day, as reported by both opposition fighters and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The rebels managed to infiltrate three neighborhoods near Aleppo, employing two explosive-laden vehicles targeting government forces. In retaliation, the Syrian government, supported by Russian airpower, launched extensive airstrikes on multiple opposition-controlled areas, notably including 23 strikes in the city of Idlib.
The Syrian conflict, ongoing since 2011, has seen various factions struggle for control over strategic locations, most notably the cities of Aleppo and Idlib. Aleppo, a critical urban center, has been subjected to fierce fighting, while Idlib remains one of the last significant opposition strongholds. The dynamic of the conflict has shifted with recent rebel offensives as they seek to exploit vulnerabilities in government defenses, which have been bolstered by Russian military support.
In summary, the recent advancements by Syrian rebels around Aleppo underscore a resurgent phase in their campaign against government forces amid intensified air assaults from the Syrian military and its allies. The situation remains volatile as both sides conduct operations, with the potential for further escalations influencing the broader regional geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
