Russia backs Assad with airstrikes as rebels advance in Aleppo

The Syrian army reported that dozens of its soldiers were killed during a significant offensive by Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) rebels, who captured parts of Aleppo. This marks the most severe challenge to President Bashar Al-Assad’s rule in years.

In response, Russia’s Defence Ministry stated that its air force had conducted strikes against the rebels to support Syrian government forces. This attack is considered one of the most daring by rebels in recent years, as front lines have largely remained static since 2020.

HTS, formerly known as the Nusra Front, is classified as a terrorist organisation by several countries, including the United States, Russia, and Turkey. Assad, a close ally of Moscow, has faced a prolonged civil war that has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives and displaced millions since its inception in 2011. Despite major fighting subsiding in recent years, the conflict remains unresolved.

Aleppo had been under government control since 2016, following a pivotal victory when Russian-backed Syrian forces recaptured rebel-held areas of the city. Rebel fighters have now seized significant parts of Aleppo, including its airport, according to their statements and military sources.

Footage showed rebel forces celebrating in key locations, including Saadallah Al-Jabiri Square and Aleppo’s historic citadel.

The Syrian army confirmed the rebel advance, citing large-scale and multi-directional attacks. It announced a redeployment to bolster defensive lines, safeguard civilians, and prepare for a counteroffensive.

Pro-government media reported airstrikes targeting rebel positions in Aleppo and Idlib, with claims of significant casualties among the insurgents.

The conflict highlights the complex geopolitics of the Syrian war, with Russia and Iran supporting Assad while Turkey backs certain rebel factions.

Fighting in the northwest had largely subsided following a 2020 de-escalation agreement between Turkey and Russia. However, the recent escalation has revived tensions amid broader regional conflicts, including wars in Gaza and Lebanon.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan held discussions on stabilising the situation.

Meanwhile, Iranian officials accused the United States and Israel of instigating the rebel offensive to destabilise the region. Turkish officials also reported taking measures to prevent further opposition activities to avoid regional tensions.

The Syrian Civil Defence reported civilian casualties from government and Russian airstrikes in Idlib, while Russia promised additional military support to Damascus within 72 hours.

Concurrently, Kurdish forces affiliated with the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces expanded their control in Aleppo following the redeployment of government troops.

Rebel commanders suggested their swift progress was partly due to a lack of manpower among Iran-backed forces in Aleppo province, compounded by recent setbacks experienced by Iran’s regional allies. They also stated that their campaign was a response to intensified Russian and Syrian strikes on civilian areas in Idlib and to preempt further government offensives.