Aleppo Airport Closed as Rebels Claim Control Over Key Parts of the City
The Syrian government has taken the drastic step of shutting down Aleppo International Airport and halting all flights as the country faces an intensified rebellion. This closure coincides with a surge in military aid arriving from Russia, a move intended to curb the rebels’ advance.
Military sources have confirmed that Russian military equipment is expected to land at the Hmeimim air base near Latakia within the next 72 hours. This influx of weaponry underscores the urgency of the situation and the fierce struggle for control over Aleppo province.
Rebel Offensive Rocks Aleppo
On Friday, rebel forces launched a surprise attack claiming to have seized several crucial areas within Aleppo city center. This unexpected offensive sent shockwaves through the conflict zone, with rebel groups asserting their dominance over key neighborhoods. However, the Syrian government vehemently denied these claims, insisting that its forces remain solidly in control.
Syrian state television issued a statement asserting that the military is actively engaged in fierce battles against the rebels, pushing them back and inflicting heavy casualties. Reports indicate that insurgents sustained substantial losses in clashes near Aleppo and Idlib.
In the afternoon, a spokesperson for the rebel command center, affiliated with the Islamist group Hajat Tahrir al-Sham, declared that their fighters had successfully infiltrated multiple neighborhoods in Aleppo.
Mustafa Abdul Jaber, commander of the Jaish al-Issa rebel brigade said,”The rapid progress we’ve made is a direct consequence of the weakening Iranian-backed forces.”
He added, “Iranian allies have lost ground due to the recent Israeli campaigns in the Gaza War and Lebanon.”
Significant Escalation in Aleppo Province
Sources within both the Syrian army and insurgent militias have described a “major attack on a broad front,” referring to the rebel offensive that began on Wednesday.
This coordinated push into Aleppo province, a stronghold of the Syrian government since 2020, constitutes the most serious challenge to the fragile ceasefire established in March 2020.
The agreement, brokered by Russia and Turkey after years of grueling conflict, aimed to solidify the status quo and stabilize the region.
However, this new offensive poses a significant threat to that fragile peace, raising concerns about a full-blown resurgence of violence.
The power dynamics in the Syrian conflict are complex, with Russia and Iran primarily backing President Assad’s regime.
Turkey, a significant regional player, has traditionally supported rebel groups. Informed circles suggest that Turkey tacitly approved this latest rebel offensive.
What is the significance of Aleppo Airport’s closure amid the rebel offensive?
## Interview: Aleppo Airport Closed Amidst Rebel Offensive
**Host:** Joining us now is Dr. Layla Amin, a Middle East analyst and expert on the Syrian conflict. Dr. Amin, Aleppo International Airport has been closed amidst reports of a major rebel offensive. Can you shed some light on the situation?
**Dr. Amin:** This is a significant development. The closure of Aleppo Airport signifies the seriousness of the rebel advance. [1](https://apnews.com/article/syria-hts-assad-aleppo-fighting-2be43ee530b7932b123a0f26b158ac22)
indicates that these rebels are making some of their strongest gains in years. Although the Syrian government insists they maintain control, the fact they’ve closed the airport suggests they’re taking this very seriously.
**Host:** We’ve also heard reports of Russia sending military aid to Syria. How does this factor into the situation?
**Dr. Amin:** Russia has been a crucial ally to the Syrian government throughout this conflict, and this influx of weaponry clearly demonstrates their commitment to propping up Assad’s regime. [1](https://apnews.com/article/syria-hts-assad-aleppo-fighting-2be43ee530b7932b123a0f26b158ac22) mentions that Russian military equipment is expected to arrive soon. This support is aimed at countering the rebel offensive and regaining control of the situation.
**Host:** What are the potential implications of this rebel offensive for the Syrian conflict as a whole?
**Dr. Amin:** The outcome of this offensive could be a turning point. If the rebels manage to gain significant ground in Aleppo, it would be a major blow to the government and embolden opposition groups. Conversely, a successful government counteroffensive would likely lead to a further escalation of violence and prolong the devastating conflict.
**Host:** Dr. Amin, thank you for your insights. This is clearly a developing story that we will continue to monitor closely.
