Turkish-backed HTS, SNA Cut M5 Road in northern Syria, Launch Attack on Aleppo City
ALEPPO, Syria (North Press) – Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS, formerly al-Nusra Front) and the Turkish-backed armed opposition factions, known as the Syrian National Army (SNA), cut the strategic International Aleppo-Damascus Highway (M5) on Thursday in Aleppo Governorate, Northwest Syria.
According to a North Press correspondent, the armed groups severed the highway after seizing control of key areas, including the Engineer’s Countryside and the town of al-Zerbah, located west of Aleppo.
The offensive has further intensified as HTS and SNA forces advanced toward government-held positions, targeting the al-Rashidin Neighborhood, which serves as a vital entry point to the city of Aleppo.
Key Strategic Gains
The military campaign has yielded significant territorial gains for the opposition forces, including control of:
- Al-Zerbah in the southwestern countryside of Aleppo.
- Kafr Naha and Khan al-Assal, two strategic towns to the west of Aleppo.
- Key areas in the Engineer’s Countryside, Kafr Joum, and al-Barqoum, all west of the city.
These developments mark a major shift in the balance of power in the region, with opposition forces claiming they are now within striking distance of Aleppo city.
Escalating Clashes
The offensive by HTS and the SNA, which began earlier this week, has put significant pressure on government forces. The Syrian military, backed by Iranian militias and Russian air support, has struggled to repel the attacks despite reinforcements being dispatched to the area.
Local reports suggest that the opposition factions have capitalized on the reduced presence of Iranian-backed forces in the region, following their recent withdrawal to southern Syria.
Impact of the M5 Road Cut
The M5 Highway is a crucial economic and military lifeline, connecting Aleppo to Damascus and other southern cities. Its closure not only disrupts military supply lines but also cuts off a vital artery for civilian and commercial traffic, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the area.
The HTS and SNA offensive appears to be aimed at leveraging strategic gains to pressure the Syrian government, potentially altering the dynamics of ongoing negotiations involving regional and international powers.
Background
This development comes amid increased tensions in Northwest Syria, where HTS and the SNA have ramped up attacks against Syrian government positions. Opposition forces reportedly aim to capitalize on shifting regional dynamics and declining Russian and Iranian military presence in certain areas.
The offensive marks one of the most significant escalations in the region in recent months, potentially signaling a new phase in the Syrian conflict.