Syrian opposition forces seize control of Aleppo amid escalating clashes
Clashes between the Bashar al-Assad regime and the anti-regime armed group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) continue in Syria's Aleppo and Idlib provinces. (AA Photo)
Intense fighting between opposition forces and Assad regime troops has continued for two days, culminating in opposition forces reportedly entering the city center of Aleppo, a strategic stronghold in Syria.
Sources confirm that opposition fighters have successfully pushed regime forces out of key positions, signaling a major shift in the conflict.
Key developments
- 70 settlements captured in 3 days
- Aleppo encircled from north and south
- Opposition forces advance into city center
Security sources respond
Security officials monitoring the situation expressed heightened vigilance. “We are closely following the movements and developments initiated by local groups in the region. All necessary precautions have been taken and will continue to be implemented,” they said.
According to reports by Türkiye Daily journalist Yesim Erarslan, the recent escalation comes amid tensions in Israel, Iran, and Lebanon. Opposition groups in northern Syria are reportedly leveraging the regional turmoil to fortify their positions and expand their control.
Major gains for opposition forces in Aleppo
Since launching their operation on November 27, opposition groups have gained control over 500 square kilometers and 35 settlements. A joint command center has announced that the Aleppo-Damascus highway has been severed, marking the start of a second phase in the offensive.
Fighting under the banner of the Operation to Prevent Aggression, opposition forces have advanced through strategic points, including Anadan and Zehra, reaching the outskirts of Aleppo. Commander Mohammed Mecbur reported heavy losses inflicted on Assad’s forces, including over 150 casualties—among them high-ranking officers—and the seizure of more than 30 tanks and armored vehicles.
Encircling PKK positions
Aleppo-based Turkmen opposition leader Mecid Osman highlighted the broader implications of the operation. “This is not just about Aleppo. If the city is liberated, the PKK will lose its strongholds in Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh, along with key connections to Tel Rifaat and Manbij,” he said.
Osman also noted that regime forces have been evacuating critical documents from Aleppo. “Schools are closed, official services are disrupted, and the city is in disarray. Iranian militias are rushing to support the regime, while Shabbiha militias flee toward Damascus,” he added.
Excitement grows among Syrian exiles
The developments have sparked hope among displaced Syrians, with many preparing to return to their homeland. Thousands of civilians who sought refuge in Türkiye, Egypt, Europe, Lebanon, and Jordan are reportedly packing their belongings.
Ahmet Kader, a displaced Aleppan, emphasized the city’s economic potential, which remains untapped under regime control. “Aleppo’s liberation will prompt over a million people to return within months,” he said.
Citing the city’s four major industrial zones, Kader remarked, “The city is the largest production hub in the Middle East, and its revival will transform the region.”
A turning point in conflict?
The battle for Aleppo has shifted the dynamics of the Syrian conflict, with opposition forces claiming momentum. The developments are being closely watched, as the potential liberation of Aleppo could reshape the balance of power in northern Syria.
