Syrian Rebels Gain Ground in Aleppo Amid Intensified Strikes

Rebel forces led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) have seized control of large parts of Aleppo, marking a significant shift in the ongoing Syrian conflict. This offensive, launched from Idlib, has seen HTS capture numerous towns and villages, challenging the Syrian government forces who have held Aleppo since 2016 with support from Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah. The Syrian military has announced a temporary withdrawal to regroup for a counterattack, while Russian air support continues. The rebels aim to expand safe areas for displaced civilians in Idlib.