Rebel Gains in Aleppo Reignite Syrian Civil War
The capture of Aleppo by Islamist rebels has reignited the Syrian civil war, raising tensions with implications for regional stability. Led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the offensive reflects shifting power dynamics as foreign actors remain focused on various conflicts. The staggering human cost and unresolved political negotiations highlight the challenges of achieving peace in Syria.
The Syrian civil war reignited following a surprise offensive led by Islamist rebels, culminating in their recapture of Aleppo from the government on November 29 and 30. This marked the first change in control of Aleppo since 2016, when government forces had regained the city with assistance from Russian and Iranian troops. The recent rebel gains have escalated tensions and drawn attention back to a conflict that has caused immense suffering and displacement since its inception in 2011.
The attack was initiated by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), previously known as the Nusra Front, which was associated with al-Qaeda. HTS, spearheaded by Abu Mohammed al-Golani, has maintained dominance in the Idlib region and has taken advantage of the Syrian government being distracted due to other regional conflicts, specifically referencing Israel’s ongoing confrontations with Iran and its allied groups.
The conflict’s resurgence reflects an imbalance among foreign powers involved in Syria. While Russia and Iran have influence over the government-held areas, the United States has maintained a military presence to support the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces. Turkey has also established its presence in the rebel-held areas, expressing frustration with the Assad regime’s inability to negotiate a peace deal that satisfies the opposition.
The Syrian civil war originated from protests against President Bashar al-Assad in 2011 during the Arab Spring and has since evolved into a complex war involving multiple factions and foreign powers. Throughout the years, the conflict has resulted in significant loss of life, displacing over half of Syria’s original population of 23 million. The strategic importance of the region has placed it at the center of geopolitical tensions, particularly between powers like Russia, Iran, Turkey, and the United States.
The recent rebel advances in Aleppo signify a critical turning point in Syria’s ongoing civil war, raising concerns about possible escalations involving major regional powers. With foreign involvement entrenched in the conflict and various factions engaged in warfare, it remains uncertain whether a resolution can be reached. The failures of past peace negotiations further emphasize the complexity and urgency of finding a lasting solution to the decades-long conflict.
Original Source: www.france24.com
