HTS Emerges as Largest Armed Opposition Group in Aleppo’s Regime Forces Rout: An Overview
Who Are Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and the Syrian Groups That Captured Aleppo?
In the ever-evolving theater of Syria’s conflict, opposition fighters have once again made headlines with a rapid, coordinated push southward, reclaiming Aleppo and advancing as far as Hama. Their campaign, dubbed Operation Deterrence of Aggression, showcases the intricate network of alliances and rivalries among Syria’s rebel factions. Here’s a breakdown of the key players and their roles in this strategic offensive.
1. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)
HTS, the most formidable armed faction in Syria’s northwest, played a pivotal role in the operation. Born from the ashes of Jabhat al-Nusra and its split from ISIL, HTS rebranded itself in 2017. With an estimated 30,000 fighters under its banner, the group dominates Idlib militarily and economically, controlling vital resources like petroleum and the Bab al-Hawa border crossing with Turkey.
HTS has also extended its influence to governance through the Syrian Salvation Government (SSG). Its leaders announced that Aleppo would now be integrated into their administration, signaling a shift in their territorial ambitions.
2. National Front for Liberation (NFL)
Comprising multiple smaller factions like Jaish al-Nasr and the Sham Corps, the NFL is a coalition forged to resist government offensives in northern Syria. Established in 2018, it operates primarily in Idlib and aligns with the Free Syrian Army. Despite limited resources, NFL groups remain integral to coordinated campaigns such as Operation Deterrence of Aggression.
3. Ahrar al-Sham Movement
Founded in the early days of the uprising in 2011, Ahrar al-Sham has been a cornerstone of the opposition. Focused on Aleppo and Idlib, it identifies as an Islamic reformist movement and boasts a history of resilience against regime forces. Its fighters played a crucial role in the latest offensive.
4. Jaish al-Izza: The Army of Pride
Operating in northern Hama and parts of Latakia, Jaish al-Izza is another key participant. With past support from Western nations, including advanced weaponry, this faction exemplifies the international dimension of Syria’s civil war. Commanders credit their recent victories to diminished Iranian support for regime forces.
5. Nur Eddin Zinki Movement
Zinki’s journey from an independent Aleppo-based force to a reluctant HTS ally reflects the complex dynamics within the opposition. After intense clashes with HTS in 2018, the group rejoined the fray as part of a unified front in Aleppo, proving its adaptability and commitment to the opposition’s goals
The Dawn of Freedom
As forces under Operation Deterrence of Aggression press southward, others have turned their attention to the northeast. The Syrian Interim Government announced Operation Dawn of Freedom, aiming to reclaim territories in the northeast from government control. This dual-pronged strategy underscores the opposition’s determination to expand its reach and challenge the regime on multiple fronts
بينما يواصل شعبنا السوري كفاحه العادل لاستعادة حريته وتحرير وطنه من قيود الاستبداد والاحتلال والإرهاب، ومع تحقيق انتصارات ميدانية جديدة على يد أبطال الجيش الوطني والقوى الوطنية والثورية، تعلن الحكومة السورية المؤقتة بفخر انطلاق عملية فجر الحرية لتحرير المناطق التي يسيطر عليها… pic.twitter.com/jabvVrVZbQ
— Abdurrahman Mustafa (@STMAbdurrahman) November 30, 2024
Translation “While our Syrian people continue their just struggle to regain their freedom and liberate their homeland from the chains of tyranny, occupation, and terrorism, and with new field victories achieved by the heroes of the National Army and the national and revolutionary forces, the Syrian Interim Government proudly announces the launch of Operation Dawn of Freedom to liberate the areas controlled by the Assad regime and the separatist PKK and PYD militias.
The liberation of these areas represents an important step toward reclaiming the entirety of Syrian territory and ensuring its unity, paving the way for the return of refugees and those forcibly displaced to their homes, cities, and villages.
All respect and appreciation go to the heroes of the National Army and everyone who has taken up arms in defense of their people and land against this oppressive regime, as well as to the resilient Syrian people standing steadfast against injustice.”
These armed factions, primarily aligned with the Syrian National Army under the Syrian Interim Government, have begun advancing towards areas controlled by Kurdish forces, claiming these regions are held by the PKK and PYD militias.
The PKK, or Kurdistan Workers’ Party, is designated as a “terrorist organization” by Turkey, Canada, the European Union, and the United States. Meanwhile, the PYD, or Democratic Union Party, is a leftist Kurdish political party operating within Syria
Source: Aljazeera
Turning Point in the Syrian Conflict
The recent gains of the opposition signal a resurgence of momentum against the Assad regime. However, the complexities of alliances, regional politics, and the humanitarian toll remain significant challenges.
For more in-depth analysis and updates on Syria’s evolving landscape, stay tuned to Trendsnip, your trusted source for global news and trends.
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