Surprise Rebel Offensive Shakes Syria as International Community Calls for Peace
A sudden and intense rebel offensive has erupted in northwestern Syria, igniting fresh tensions in a country already scarred by a 13-year-long civil war. Last week, the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an al-Qaida-linked extremist group, alongside allied opposition factions, launched a major assault in the western countryside of Aleppo.
By Friday, rebels had seized control of parts of Aleppo, including the crucial Aleppo International Airport—the first civilian airport to fall under HTS control. The Syrian army, facing overwhelming attacks, announced a temporary redeployment of its forces but quickly launched a counteroffensive.
Over the weekend, government forces reclaimed key areas in Hama province, with state media reporting that around 1,000 militants were killed during operations. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) noted significant shifts in the region, including the withdrawal of Iranian-backed militias and repositioning of Kurdish units on Aleppo’s outskirts.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The escalating conflict has taken a severe toll on civilians. The SOHR reported at least 372 deaths since the offensive began, including 20 civilians. United Nations representatives expressed grave concern over the situation.
“Countless people, many of whom have already endured the trauma of displacement, are now forced to flee once more,” said Adam Abdelmoula, UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator for Syria. With more than 16.7 million people already in need of humanitarian assistance, the latest violence exacerbates an already dire situation.
The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) highlighted that nearly 7.5 million Syrian children will require humanitarian aid in 2024 due to the worsening crisis. Issues like collapsing healthcare, lack of safe water, and food insecurity are leading to increased vulnerability among the population.
Global Calls for De-escalation
The international community has urged all parties to cease hostilities and prioritize peace. Leaders from the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Iran, and Russia have expressed support for Syria’s sovereignty and called for efforts to stabilize the region.
“Syria’s security and stability are closely linked to Iraq’s national security,” said Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani. Similarly, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty emphasized Syria’s vital role in fostering regional stability and combating terrorism.
The United States denied involvement in the offensive and called for immediate de-escalation and protection of civilians. European nations like France and the United Kingdom urged adherence to international humanitarian law and emphasized the need for diplomatic solutions.
Hope for Peace Amid Uncertainty
This sudden surge in conflict follows a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, raising concerns about stability in the Middle East. As tensions rise, the world watches closely, hoping for dialogue and peaceful resolutions to prevent further suffering.
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Int'l community urges de-escalation amid rebel offensive in Syria
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