Intense Airstrikes as Rebel Forces Expand Control in Northern Syria
In a dramatic escalation of the Syrian conflict, airstrikes have targeted cities and villages captured by Islamist rebels in a surprise offensive that began earlier this week. The rebels, composed of various opposition groups, many of whom receive support from Turkey, have reportedly taken control of over a dozen villages and a strategically significant city south of Aleppo.
The pro-government newspaper Al-Watan broadcasted footage on Saturday showing a missile striking a gathering of soldiers and vehicles amidst urban surroundings. The Syrian army has confirmed the occurrence of these airstrikes. According to reports from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, at least 20 soldiers have been killed due to the attacks.
Residents of Aleppo are experiencing heightened tensions, with ongoing clashes and gunfire reported. Many civilians have chosen to flee the violence, prompting the closure of schools and government offices as they seek refuge indoors. Local media outlet Sham FM, which leans towards governmental narratives, provided updates on the situation.
Despite the chaos, the rebels appear to have made substantial advances. Social media posts depict them outside the Citadel of Aleppo, a renowned medieval palace and one of the largest in the world, indicating that they are making significant inroads in the area. Some rebels have aired clips reassuring civilians that their intentions are not hostile, seeking to alleviate fears among Aleppo's residents.
State media have reported that certain areas in the city have been infiltrated by what they refer to as terrorists, including sleeper cells. On a state television morning show, commentators suggested that army reinforcements, backed by Russian forces, would push back against these terrorist factions, while also alleging Turkish support for the rebel advances in the Aleppo and Idlib provinces.
In a statement reported by Russia's state news agency, Tass, an official from the Russian Defense Ministry confirmed the deployment of airstrikes against militants who initiated this northwest offensive. Oleg Ignasiuk noted that Russian fighter jets had successfully targeted and reportedly killed around 200 militants involved in the clashes that escalated on Friday.
The situation remains fluid as both sides brace for further developments amid ongoing military operations and shifting control over this war-torn region.
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