Turkish-backed Factions Advance in Syria’s Aleppo City Amid Escalating Clashes
ALEPPO, Syria (North Press) – Turkish-backed Syrian opposition militants, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have reportedly made significant advances in several neighborhoods of Aleppo city, according to an opposition leader who spoke to North Press on Friday.
The leader, who requested anonymity, confirmed that the factions had taken control of areas including New Aleppo, Hamdaniyah, and parts of the Journalists’ District, reaching as far as the university campus. Heavy clashes are now underway in Al-Furkan and the vicinity of the Military Academy, he added.
Rapid Advances and Syrian Army Retreats
The opposition leader described a rapid advance by HTS forces, previously known as Jabhat al-Nusra, which began their offensive on Wednesday. He also claimed that Syrian government forces had been retreating from multiple positions across Aleppo, although these assertions have been denied by government sources.
A Syrian army source told North Press that the battles remain confined to New Aleppo and have dismissed reports of broader advances by HTS and allied factions.
Civilians Flee Amid Intensifying Violence
North Press correspondents in Aleppo reported large-scale displacement from neighborhoods caught in the crossfire. Residents of Al-Seryan neighborhood, located near central Aleppo, confirmed hearing intense gunfire throughout Friday. Many have fled to safer areas as fears of escalating violence mount.
Witnesses also reported unconfirmed news of the full withdrawal of Syrian security branches from Aleppo city, a development that has contributed to heightened anxiety among locals.
Background of the Offensive
The offensive launched by HTS and Turkish-backed groups marks one of the most significant escalations in Aleppo in recent years. Since the 2020 ceasefire brokered by Turkey and Russia, the region has seen sporadic clashes, but this week’s fighting has disrupted the fragile status quo.
HTS, a UN-designated terrorist group, seeks to expand its influence beyond Idlib province. Their partnership with Turkish-backed factions has intensified the conflict, posing further challenges to the Syrian government’s control over strategic areas.
Government and Opposition Narratives Diverge
As the fighting continues, both sides offer conflicting accounts of the situation. The Syrian government has downplayed opposition claims of significant territorial gains, maintaining that its forces are repelling attacks effectively. On the other hand, opposition leaders celebrate what they describe as a “breakthrough” in Aleppo.
Humanitarian Concerns
The violence has once again placed civilians in peril, with thousands reportedly fleeing their homes. Humanitarian groups are urging all parties to prioritize the safety of civilians and adhere to international laws.
The situation remains fluid, with Aleppo residents and displaced individuals anxiously awaiting clarity amid the ongoing battles.