Russian, Syrian jets target rebel forces after rebels make gains in Aleppo

Russian and Syrian aircraft are reportedly bombing rebel fighters who have gained significant ground in Aleppo.

Opposition forces, mainly led by a militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have claimed control over roughly half of Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city, following a surprise offensive in recent days.

According to the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), the rebels have reached the heart of the city, forcing the closure of Aleppo airport and several major roads.

In response, Russia, a key ally of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, has promised additional military aid to help Damascus repel the advancing forces. Russian jets have now returned to Aleppo for the first time since 2016, when Assad and his allies, including Iran and regional Shi’ite militias, recaptured the city from opposition control.

The opposition’s offensive is seen as retaliation for the intensified Russian and Syrian airstrikes on rebel-held areas, particularly in Idlib, in recent weeks.

Turkish sources indicate that Ankara, which supports the rebels, has given its approval for the offensive, despite warnings from Turkey’s foreign ministry about the potential destabilizing effects of these attacks on regional de-escalation efforts.

Rebel forces have also shared videos online showing the use of drones in their advance, marking a new phase in the conflict. While insurgents celebrate their successes at the city’s western entrance, the Syrian government has yet to comment on the breach of Aleppo.