Syrian Military Counterattacks to Halt Insurgents’ Advance in Latest News
BEIRUT (AP) — In a bold move to push back insurgents who recently seized the country’s largest city of Aleppo, the Syrian military has rushed reinforcements to the northwest and launched airstrikes on a major city. This attempt to regain control comes after the jihadi group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham led a surprise offensive targeting Aleppo, Idlib, and Hama provinces in recent days.
Government Troops Create Defensive Line Amidst Escalating Conflict
According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, government troops have established a “strong defensive line” in northern Hama as they try to stall the insurgents’ momentum. Simultaneously, airstrikes have been pounding the cities of Idlib and Aleppo, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 15 lives, as reported by a group operating in opposition-held areas.
The surge in fighting not only poses a threat to Syria but also has wider regional implications. The escalating conflict could potentially draw Russia and Turkey into direct confrontation due to their vested interests in the region. This development comes at a time when Israel is already engaged in conflicts with Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, further heightening tensions.
Opposition Troops Make Significant Gains
The insurgents, spearheaded by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, managed to capture most of Aleppo and advance into the surrounding province. Their progress includes seizing a military academy and a strategic town crucial for connecting Damascus and the coast. In addition, rebel forces have claimed control over the entire province of Idlib and reportedly entered the city of Hama, although independent verification is lacking.
The insurgents’ ultimate goal is to push through to Damascus, but so far, life in the Syrian capital remains relatively unaffected. However, the situation in southeastern Aleppo is dire, with residents fleeing the violence and facing fuel shortages amidst the chaos.
International Response and Military Developments
As the conflict intensifies, foreign powers are monitoring the situation closely. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has pledged Tehran’s support for the Syrian government and its military efforts. Meanwhile, Arab leaders like Jordan’s King Abdullah II and UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan have expressed solidarity with President Bashar Assad.
On the military front, Syrian state news agency SANA and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights have reported successful government counterattacks in northern Hama. The army’s resupply efforts include heavy equipment and rocket launchers, while Syrian and Russian airstrikes target insurgent strongholds and weapon depots. Despite these efforts, the civilian toll continues to rise, with casualties reported in both Idlib and Aleppo due to government airstrikes.
The situation remains fluid, with the international community calling for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict and prevent further violence in the region. As the Syrian military fortifies its positions and insurgents push forward, the fate of Aleppo and the surrounding provinces hangs in the balance amidst this latest wave of conflict in the war-torn country.
