Syrian rebel forces are reportedly engaging in fierce battles within the city of Aleppo as part of their ongoing counteroffensive in the country’s northwest, now in its third day. The operation, named “Deter the Aggression,” aims to halt attacks from the Assad regime, Russia, and Iran on the last rebel-held province of Idlib, according to “The New Arab.”
Videos shared online show intense fighting in the Rashidin neighborhood of Aleppo, illustrating the operation’s significant momentum. Rebel forces are also advancing toward New Aleppo, a key area located on the city’s outskirts.
A regime security official denied that rebels had entered the city, claiming the clashes were taking place west of Aleppo. Despite these denials, reports on the ground suggest that the rebel forces are closing in on the city, escalating the already volatile situation in northwest Syria.
One of the primary objectives of the rebel coalition is to expel Iranian-backed fighters from Syria, particularly from the Aleppo countryside and eastern Idlib.
The rebels had controlled much of Aleppo until 2016 when pro-Assad forces, backed by Russian airstrikes, targeted the city. In just two days of fighting, the opposition coalition has seized over 50 towns and villages in Aleppo and eastern Idlib.
They have also succeeded in shutting down the M-5 highway, a major transport route connecting Aleppo to Damascus. Rebel forces are now encircling the city of Saraqib in eastern Idlib, a strategic hub that connects the M4 and M5 highways, vital routes in Syria’s transportation network.
Rebel groups have reportedly captured several regime soldiers and seized heavy weaponry, including the soviet T-72 tanks. Additionally, the offensive has claimed around 400 square kilometers of territory over the past two days, with significant casualties reported, including at least 200 deaths.
Although the rebel coalition has made significant gains, the Assad regime is pushing back, with reinforcements reportedly arriving in Aleppo to stem the advance.
The situation in Aleppo and surrounding areas remains dire, with intense airstrikes continuing to affect civilian areas.