Syrian rebels have launched a large-scale attack against regime forces in western Aleppo, marking a significant resurgence in conflict after years of relative calm. Dubbed “Deterrence of Aggression,” the offensive successfully captured key territory and resulted in reported casualties among regime personnel. The incident underscores the fragility of the existing ceasefire and highlights the ongoing volatility in Syria’s protracted civil war.

In a significant escalation of hostilities, Syrian rebels have initiated a large-scale offensive against regime forces in western Aleppo, a move recognized as the first major conflict between the opposing factions in several years. According to sources from the Free Syrian Army and local residents, this offensive, dubbed “Deterrence of Aggression,” was launched in response to recent artillery attacks by President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The rebels successfully captured thirteen villages, including the crucial towns of Urm Al-Sughra and Anjara, and Base 46, which is the largest regime base in western Aleppo. Reports indicate that approximately 37 members of the regime forces and allied militia were killed during the operation. However, CNN has not verified these casualty figures and has sought a comment from the Syrian government for clarification.

This sudden attack coincides with the first major outbreak of violence since March 2020, when a ceasefire agreement facilitated by Russia and Turkey was established. The Military Operations Command of the Syrian rebels reported liberating Urm Al-Kubra, situated around 20 kilometers from Aleppo city, following intense confrontations with Assad’s troops and Iranian militias. Social media has been rife with videos showing smoke rising from the combat zones, and rebel fighters celebrating their gains, claiming ownership of the towns seized, particularly emphasizing local pride in Anjara.

Despite the activity on the ground, state media has not reported extensively on the clashes, while certain pro-regime outlets have referenced the events without offering comprehensive details. A resident within a regime-controlled area of Aleppo revealed that civilians, particularly from affluent neighborhoods like New Aleppo, are evacuating due to escalating fears of the ongoing violence. Various opposition factions participated in the offensive, including both Islamic groups and the moderates of the Free Syrian Army, which had previously received support from the United States and Turkey.

The Syrian civil war, which began in 2011 amid a crackdown on pro-democracy protests, has transformed into a protracted and complex conflict involving numerous international players, thus becoming a noted proxy war. Despite a decrease in hostilities since the 2020 ceasefire, rising tensions and more significant engagements appear to threaten the fragile stability in the region. The United Nations estimates that over 300,000 civilians have perished as a result of this prolonged conflict, with millions more displaced across the region.

The Syrian civil war has persisted since 2011, originating from a government-led repression of demonstrations advocating for democratic reforms. In response, various rebel factions, including the Free Syrian Army, were formed to challenge regime forces loyal to Bashar al-Assad. Multiple foreign nations became involved, exacerbating the conflict into what many now see as a proxy war. A ceasefire brokered by Russia and Turkey in early 2020 led to a lull in hostilities, but recent reports indicate a resurgence in violence, marking a potentially pivotal shift in the dynamics of the war. Over the last decade, the conflict has claimed extensive civilian lives and displaced millions, creating a dire humanitarian crisis.

The recent offensive by Syrian rebels against regime forces in Aleppo province signals a troubling flare-up in violence after a period of relative stagnation following the 2020 ceasefire. With significant territorial gains and casualties reported, this conflict could signify a pivotal moment in the ongoing Syrian civil war. The involvement of various opposition factions underscores the complexity of the situation, adding layers to an already multifaceted conflict that has had devastating impacts on the civilian population. As the situation continues to evolve, international responses and implications will be closely scrutinized.

Original Source: www.cnn.com

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