Summary

Rebels in Syria, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have launched their first major offensive on Aleppo since 2016, threatening a potential shift in the 13-year civil war.

The attack targets a city historically vital to Syria’s economy, previously reclaimed by President Assad with Russian support.

This resurgence could destabilize the region, involving players like Russia, Turkey, and Iran, while creating openings for ISIS.

HTS, previously linked to al-Qaida, has sought legitimacy but remains controversial. The fighting raises concerns of regional escalation amid other Middle Eastern conflicts.