Rebel forces opposing Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime have launched a surprise offensive in the country’s long-running civil war, capturing almost all of Aleppo. The war began in 2011 with Assad’s crackdown on pro-democracy protests and has led to half a million deaths and millions of refugees. The recent fighting erupted despite a cease-fire brokered by Turkey and Russia, with rebels seeking to take more territory controlled by the government.
The conflict is influenced by external factors, including tensions between Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israel in Lebanon, as well as Russia’s war in Ukraine. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a Sunni Islamist group, is leading the rebel offensive against Assad, who is supported by Russia and Iran. Turkey backs the rebels to contain Kurdish separatist movements and has political pressure to deport Syrian refugees.
Assad’s regime still controls most of Syria’s territory, but the recent fighting raises concerns about more violence in the region. The future of Syria depends on the intervention of Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah, which have supported Assad. Efforts to find a long-term solution to the civil war, including potential talks between Assad and Turkey’s Erdogan, have been complicated by conflicting interests among external powers.
In conclusion, the surge in fighting in Syria highlights the precarious and uncertain future of the country, with external powers shaping the conflict and the potential for further violence.
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