Syrian Civil War reignites after four years with surprise rebel offensive, drawing Russia in
SUMMARY
The Syrian Civil War has reignited following a four-year lull, as the rebel coalition Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) launched a surprise offensive near Aleppo. HTS and allied militias, employing advanced tactics such as night operations and kamikaze drones, overran Syrian government forces, capturing tanks, armored vehicles, and Russian special forces equipment. By reaching Aleppo’s outskirts, the offensive marks the most significant challenge to President Bashar al-Assad’s regime since 2020. The clashes have resulted in heavy casualties, with 65 HTS fighters and 49 government troops killed. In response, the Assad regime and Russian air forces launched retaliatory airstrikes on rebel-held Idlib. Analysts believe HTS seized the moment due to a perceived weakening of Assad’s allies, including Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah, amid their respective struggles. While Turkey denies direct support for HTS, its regional influence is under scrutiny as the conflict's dynamics shift.
