Turkey-backed Factions Declare Curfew in Aleppo Following Syrian Government Withdrawal
ALEPPO, Syria (North Press) – Turkey-backed Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), formerly known as Jabhat al-Nusra, declared a curfew in Aleppo on Saturday, instructing civilians to remain indoors “to ensure public safety and protect both public and private property.”
This announcement comes hours after HTS and Turkish-backed opposition factions claimed full control of Aleppo city, following the withdrawal of Syrian government forces.
Government Forces Evacuate Aleppo
Sources close to the Syrian government told North Press that Russian forces had ordered the withdrawal of all military personnel from Aleppo and its countryside to Hmeimim Air Base in Latakia.
The sources also revealed that Aleppo’s local administration, including the governor, mayor, and other officials, had left the city over the past two days. Security agencies also evacuated their headquarters, retreating toward Al-Safira in the eastern countryside.
The withdrawal marks a significant moment in Syria’s ongoing conflict, leaving Aleppo, the country’s second-largest city, under opposition control for the first time since 2016.
Opposition Offensive Gains Momentum
The curfew is part of HTS’s broader effort to consolidate its control after launching a military campaign titled “Deter Aggression” last Wednesday. This offensive has resulted in the capture of significant territories, including large areas in the southern and eastern countryside of Aleppo, all of Idlib province, and towns in the northern countryside of Hama.
The rapid territorial gains highlight the weakened state of government forces in northern Syria and raise questions about Damascus’s ability to respond to these developments.
Uncertain Future for Aleppo Residents
The sudden shifts in control have left Aleppo residents in a state of uncertainty. Many have expressed concerns about potential reprisals, restrictions on freedoms, and the impact of HTS’s governance.
Humanitarian organizations have also raised alarm over the growing displacement crisis, as thousands flee active conflict zones. The imposition of a curfew could further complicate efforts to deliver aid to affected populations.
Broader Implications of HTS Control
HTS’s expansion solidifies its dominance in northwestern Syria and presents new challenges for both the Syrian government and international actors. As a UN-designated terrorist group, HTS’s governance could limit humanitarian access and provoke international condemnation.
Observers warn that the developments in Aleppo and beyond signal a dangerous escalation in Syria’s ongoing conflict, potentially derailing diplomatic efforts aimed at a peaceful resolution.
For now, the residents of Aleppo await clarity on their city’s future as HTS strengthens its grip and government forces regroup in nearby regions.