Syria’s 13-year civil war has reignited as rebels launched a major offensive on Aleppo, marking their first attack on the city since 2016, according to the Associated Press.
The escalation threatens to destabilize the region further, especially as U.S.-backed Israel combats Iranian-linked forces in Gaza and Lebanon. Aleppo, once Syria’s economic hub, had been retaken by President Bashar Assad’s forces with Russian support in 2016.
Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a U.S.-designated terrorist group, leads the Aleppo attack. Formerly aligned with al-Qaida, HTS has attempted to rebrand by fostering civilian governance in its territory while still engaging in military operations.
Analysts warn this renewed conflict could have significant geopolitical consequences, particularly if it draws Turkey and Russia into direct confrontation.
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