Aleppo, Syria - In a major escalation of the Syrian civil war, rebel forces have seized control over most of Aleppo, the country's largest city and a key strategic center. After weeks of intense fighting, rebel fighters have overrun government positions and pushed loyalist forces back to the eastern districts of the city.
The battle for Aleppo has been one of the most pivotal and protracted conflicts of the Syrian civil war, which has raged since 2011. The city has been divided between rebel- and government-controlled areas for years, and has witnessed some of the fiercest and most destructive fighting of the conflict.
In recent weeks, rebel forces have launched a major offensive against government positions in Aleppo. Backed by international support, they have made significant gains. On Monday, rebel fighters captured the eastern entrance of the city and severed communication lines between Aleppo and government-held areas to the west. By Tuesday, they had taken control of most of the city's western and central districts.
"We have achieved a great victory today," said Ahmed al-Seif, a spokesman for the Free Syrian Army. "We have liberated the majority of Aleppo from the regime's clutches."
The government has vowed to retake Aleppo and has deployed reinforcements to the city. However, rebel forces have been able to hold their positions and continue their advance. The fighting has caused widespread civilian casualties, with hundreds reported killed and injured.
The rebel gains in Aleppo have sparked international concern. The United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian access to the city. The United States has welcomed the rebel advances but expressed its continued support for a political solution to the Syrian conflict.
The capture of Aleppo by rebels is a significant blow to the Assad regime and could have far-reaching implications for the future of the war. It could embolden rebel forces and encourage them to launch similar offensives in other parts of the country. It could also lead to a collapse of the government and a further fragmentation of Syria.
As the battle for Aleppo continues, the fate of the city hangs in the balance. The fighting has intensified, and the humanitarian situation is growing increasingly desperate. It remains to be seen whether the rebels can hold on to their gains or whether the government will be able to regain control of its largest city. The outcome of the battle for Aleppo could shape the course of the Syrian conflict for years to come.