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Focus on the big picture.
Sunday, Aug 16, 2026

Syrian Opposition Fighters Make Significant Gains in Aleppo

Syrian opposition forces, led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have launched a significant offensive, capturing around half of Aleppo with minimal resistance.
This marks the first serious challenge to President Bashar al-Assad's rule in years, despite his regime being backed by Russia and Iran.

While Assad controls over 60% of Syria, the rapid gains by the opposition highlight vulnerabilities in his regime.

External factors, such as tensions involving Israel, Hezbollah, and commitments in Ukraine, are stretching Assad’s allies thin.

The offensive by HTS showcases their increased military capabilities, including investments in night operations.

However, Assad retains considerable internal support and has historically managed to rally his forces.

The extent of continued support from Russia and Iran will likely influence the outcome of this renewed conflict, as the opposition attempts to sustain their momentum and possibly unite against Assad’s longstanding regime.

The situation in Syria remains fluid, with significant implications for the country’s future stability and the international community's involvement.
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