Syrian forces close Aleppo airport as opposition rebels advance
Anti-regime armed groups clashing with Bashar al-Assad regime forces in Syria start to enter Aleppo city center in Syria on Nov. 29, 2024. (AA Photo)
Syrian authorities have closed Aleppo airport and all access roads to the city as opposition rebels, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, made significant advances and entered the heart of Aleppo.
The rebel group has swept through government-held towns and is pushing back after being forced out of the city nearly a decade ago.
Why it matters?
The offensive is the most significant escalation since 2016 when Assad’s forces, backed by Russia and Iran, recaptured Aleppo after months of siege. The rebels’ return comes amid intensified strikes by Russian and Syrian forces on rebel-held Idlib, sparking concern about escalating violence in northwest Syria.
Latest developments
- Russian support: Russia has pledged additional military assistance to Damascus, with new equipment arriving in the next 72 hours.
- Syrian military strategy: Syrian forces are reportedly pulling back from parts of Aleppo that have fallen to rebels, following “safe withdrawal” orders.
- Civilians at risk: At least 27 civilians, including children, have been killed in the past three days due to ongoing airstrikes. Syrian state media reported four civilians were killed in the shelling of student dormitories in Aleppo.
