Syrian Government Struggles to Contain Escalating Violence in Aleppo
Aleppo, once Syria’s vibrant commercial hub, has plunged back into chaos after a surprise offensive by the militant group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). This sudden surge in violence marks the first time since the devastating civil war began in 2011 that the Syrian government has lost control of the city.
HTS-Led Offensive Catches Government Off Guard
On Wednesday, HTS, formerly known as the Al-Nusra Front before separating from Al-Qaeda, launched a series of coordinated attacks across Aleppo Governorate. Along with other, smaller opposition groups, HTS quickly took control of dozens of towns and villages in Aleppo, as well as neighboring Idlib and Hama governorates. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported over 410 fatalities from the conflict as of Sunday.
Aleppo Falls Back Under Opposition Control
After years of brutal fighting and a protracted siege, Syrian government forces finally captured the entirety of Aleppo at the end of 2016, with crucial air support from Russia. However, the recent HTS offensive has reversed these gains, placing all neighborhoods once held by regime forces under the control of HTS and its allies. This shocking turn of events has sent shockwaves through the region, highlighting the fragility of the Syrian government’s control and the continued potency of armed opposition groups.
International Actors Express Concern over Escalation
In response to the escalating violence, the United States, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement calling for de-escalation and urging all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians. The statement, released by the US State Department, stressed the urgent need for a Syrian-led political solution in accordance with Security Council Resolution No. 2254. While the statement did not explicitly name HTS, it urged all parties to preserve vital infrastructure in conflict zones to prevent further displacement. “We are closely monitoring the situation,” the statement read.
Assad Seeks Support From Allies in the Wake of the Offensive
On Sunday, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad sought to solidify support from his international allies. During a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Damascus, Assad emphasized “the importance of supporting allies and friends in confronting foreign-backed terrorist attacks and thwarting their plans.” This statement likely reflects Assad’s increasing reliance on foreign allies, particularly Iran and Russia, as he faces mounting pressure from opposition forces.
Uncertain Future for Aleppo as Violence Continues
The fighting in Aleppo is the latest chapter in a complex and drawn-out civil war that has cost hundreds of thousands of lives and displaced millions. While the immediate outcome of this latest offensive remains unclear, it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing instability in Syria and the human cost of this protracted conflict. As international actors express concern and Assad seeks support from his allies, the future of Aleppo hangs in the balance, shrouded in uncertainty.
How might the international community respond to the recapture of Aleppo by HTS?
## Aleppo Falls Again: An Interview with Dr. Leila Ahmed
**Anchor:** We’re here today with Dr. Leila Ahmed, a Middle East expert and Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, to discuss the shocking development in Aleppo. Dr. Ahmed, can you give us some context on this latest escalation in violence?
**Dr. Ahmed:** This is a significant turning point in the Syrian conflict. Aleppo, once a bustling metropolis, has been repeatedly devastated by fighting since 2011. After years of brutal siege and fighting, the Syrian government, backed by Russia, did manage to retake full control of the city in 2016. However, the recent offensive led by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) caught the government off guard and has resulted in HTS retaking control of the entire city. [[1](https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2024/11/30/syrian-rebels-sweep-into-aleppo-in-an-embarrassing-rout-for-bashar-al-assad)]
**Anchor:** HTS is a former al-Qaeda affiliate, correct? What does this resurgence mean for regional stability?
**Dr. Ahmed:** That’s right. While HTS officially broke with al-Qaeda in 2017, their ideology remains deeply rooted in extremism. Their sudden seizure of Aleppo is a clear blow to the Syrian government’s credibility and a worrying sign for the region. It could embolden other extremist groups and further complicate any efforts towards a lasting peace settlement in Syria.
**Anchor:** The international community has been largely silent so far. What kind of response can we expect?
**Dr. Ahmed:** It’s a crucial question. The international community’s response to the Syrian conflict has been largely fragmented and ineffective. This latest development might prompt some renewed diplomatic efforts, but it’s unclear whether any meaningful action will be taken to address the underlying issues driving the violence.
**Anchor:** Dr. Ahmed, thank you for your insights. This is certainly a developing story that we will continue to follow closely.
