Syrian rebels take control of Aleppo in lightning-fast offensive

North-western Syria sees dramatic power shift as opposition forces capture Aleppo in rapid advance. Rebel groups managed to secure key areas while meeting minimal resistance from government forces

November 30 2024 , 04:37 AM  •  218 views

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