In a dramatic turn of events in Syria’s ongoing conflict, rebel forces have made significant advances against President Bashar Assad’s government, prompting immediate response from his allies Russia and Iran.

The rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which has historical ties to al Qaeda, captured the strategic city of Aleppo and reportedly seized Khansir, effectively cutting off government access to Aleppo. The group claims to have reestablished control over the entire Idlib province, though this claim remains unverified.

Russia has responded with airstrikes targeting rebel positions in Idlib, while Iran’s foreign minister made an emergency visit to Damascus to show support for Mr. Assad’s regime. Syrian government forces have also launched counteroffensives, conducting airstrikes in Aleppo and Idlib, and sending reinforcements to combat the insurgent advance.

The situation has drawn international attention, with U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan expressing concern over Hayat Tahrir al-Sham’s objectives while noting that American forces in Syria remain uninvolved as they are stationed far from the conflict zone. Mr. Sullivan also indicated little sympathy from Washington for Mr. Assad’s regime, citing its history of brutal tactics including chemical weapons use against civilians.

The crisis has prompted regional leaders to take sides, with Jordan’s King Abdullah II and UAE’s President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan publicly backing Mr. Assad. Iran has pledged continued support, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi meeting Mr. Assad in Damascus before heading to Turkey for further discussions.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports that more than 370 people have been killed since fighting began on Wednesday. This renewed conflict is particularly significant as it threatens Mr. Assad’s control over Aleppo, a city whose capture by government forces in 2016 was considered a turning point in Syria’s civil war.

While Mr. Assad himself has not made public appearances since the crisis began, he has maintained contact with regional allies and issued a statement vowing to defend Syria’s stability and territorial integrity against what he terms terrorists and their supporters.

Read more: Russia, Iran rally to Assad’s aid after shock rebel offensive

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