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The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reports that rebel forces have taken control of the “majority” of Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city. This development represents a critical turning point in the protracted conflict, as Aleppo has been at the center of intense military and political struggles throughout the war.
For the first time since 2016, Russian forces carried out air strikes across Aleppo overnight into Saturday, according to reports from observers. This renewed military action highlights Russia’s ongoing involvement in the Syrian conflict, as Aleppo, once again, becomes a focal point of intense military operations.
Since the start of the offensive on Wednesday, over 300 people, including more than 20 civilians, have been killed, according to SOHR. The rising number of casualties further highlights the severe human toll of the ongoing conflict, as violence continues to spread across affected areas.
This offensive, which is the most substantial against Syrian government forces in recent years, has marked a turning point in the conflict.
For the first time since 2016, rebel forces have advanced to Aleppo, a city that had previously fallen under the control of President Bashar al-Assad’s military forces after their successful recapture of the area.
In a statement released on Saturday, Syria’s military acknowledged that rebels had seized control of “large parts” of Aleppo, with intense fighting resulting in the deaths and injuries of dozens of government soldiers. The development marks a critical shift in the battle for the city, with heavy casualties on both sides.
In a statement, it said troops had been withdrawn from Aleppo temporarily “to prepare a counteroffensive”.
Footage verified by the BBC showed rebels had reached the city’s ancient citadel.
Aleppo’s airport and all roads leading into the city have been closed, military sources told Reuters news agency.
The rebels were able to capture the “majority of the city” without meeting significant resistance, the SOHR said early on Saturday.
There was “no fighting” as Syrian regime forces withdrew, a spokesperson told the BBC. “The city council, police stations, intelligence offices – they are empty.
