Rebel Offensive Rocks Aleppo: Largest Attack Since 2020 Threatens Fragile Syrian Calm

Rebel Offensive Rocks Aleppo: Largest Attack Since 2020 Threatens Fragile Syrian Calm

Syrian rebel forces launched a major offensive against government troops in northwestern Syria on November 27, 2024, marking the most significant escalation in the region since 2020. The operation, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and other opposition factions, has resulted in substantial advances towards Aleppo.

Key developments:

- Rebels have captured over 50 towns and villages in Aleppo and Idlib provinces
- Insurgents breached Aleppo's western outskirts after detonating two car bombs
- Clashes reported in several Aleppo neighborhoods, including New Aleppo and Zahra
- At least 242 people killed, mostly combatants, with 24 civilian casualties
- Over 14,000 people displaced, nearly half of them children
- Government forces, backed by Russian airstrikes, are attempting to repel the attack

The offensive has disrupted key supply routes, including the M5 highway linking Aleppo to Damascus. This escalation comes amid regional tensions and could potentially reignite broader hostilities after a period of relative calm since 2020.