Syrian rebels take control of Aleppo in lightning-fast offensive

In a swift-moving operation on 11/29/24‚ opposition forces seized control of north-western Aleppos key districts. The rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and Nour al-Din al-Zenki Movement captured Al-Basel square where a statue of Bassel al-Assad (the presidents late brother) stands - a long-time symbol of regime power in the region

The take-over showed surprising ease; fighters moved through city streets encountering little push-back from government forces. They used soviet-era tanks drove past once-proud landmarks and secured multiple neighborhoods in quick succession. The speed of advance stands in stark contrast to the drawn-out battle for the city about 8 years ago which cost thousands of lives

The current offensive started few days ago after a tragic incident in Ariha where government forces killed several children. This sparked rapid developments:

• Multiple regime positions overtaken
• Strategic M5 highway captured
• Military equipment seized
• Russian forces suffered losses
• Key government buildings occupied

Videos showed rebels taking control of stockpiles including air-defense systems left behind by retreating forces. Some fighters even posted pictures from inside what they claimed was the governors residence; while others secured the police headquarters and other strategic points

The success reflects major changes in regional dynamics. Assadʼs regime now lacks the strong backing it had years ago - Russia focuses on its Ukraine operation while Iran faces limitations due to ongoing conflicts. The opposition led by Abu Mohammad al-Julani used this time to build up forces train recruits and prepare for this moment

This take-over marks a significant shift in Syrian power balance. The citys capture happened in mere hours compared to the previous four-year struggle to control it. With government forces retreating across multiple fronts the opposition groups demonstrate newfound strength and coordination