Syrian government forces launched airstrikes on a major highway linking the cities of Homs and Hama in a bid to thwart the advances of rebel groups, a war monitor said Friday (Dec 6). On Thursday, Islamist fighters took control of the strategic city of Hama; which is just 40 kilometres away from Homs, Syria’s third-largest city.

“Fighter jets executed several airstrikes, targeting Al-Rastan bridge on (the) Homs-Hama highway... as well as attacking positions around the bridge, attempting to cut off the road between Hama and Homs and secure Homs," the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

The war monitor added that forces of Syria President Bashar al-Assad had also placed soil barriers on the highway north of Homs. Following the capture of Hama after street battles between rebels of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group and the Syrian army, panic-struck residents of Homs, especially those hailing from Assad's Alawite minority community, were seen fleeing the city.

Watch:&nbsp;Iran Sends Regional Fighters To Syria: Can They Save Assad Again?

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Earlier, rebels were seen firing celebratory gunfire as they entered Syria's fourth-largest city of Hama. AFP reported several residents appeared to welcome the rebels. Syrian Defence Minister Ali Abbas claimed that the army’s withdrawal from Hama was a "temporary tactical measure".

"Our forces are still in the vicinity," he said in a statement carried by the official SANA news agency.

In a statement released later, HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani said his fighters had entered Hama to "cleanse the wound that has endured in Syria for 40 years", referring to a crackdown on the Muslim Brotherhood in 1982, which led to thousands of deaths.

Since the rebels launched their offensive last week and seized the strategic city of Aleppo; at least 826 people, including soldiers, civilians and rebels, have died. It marks the most intense fighting since 2020 in the civil war sparked by the repression of pro-democracy protests in 2011.

(With inputs from agencies)

Syrian government forces launched airstrikes on a major highway linking the cities of Homs and Hama in a bid to thwart the advances of rebel groups, a war monitor said Friday (Dec 6).

Syrian government forces launched airstrikes on a major highway linking the cities of Homs and Hama in a bid to thwart the advances of rebel groups, a war monitor said Friday (Dec 6). On Thursday, Islamist fighters took control of the strategic city of Hama; which is just 40 kilometres away from Homs, Syria’s third-largest city. “Fighter jets executed several airstrikes, targeting Al-Rastan bridge on (the) Homs-Hama highway... as well as attacking positions around the bridge, attempting to cut off the road between Hama and Homs and secure Homs," the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. The war monitor added that forces of Syria President Bashar al-Assad had also placed soil barriers on the highway north of Homs. Following the capture of Hama after street battles between rebels of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group and the Syrian army, panic-struck residents of Homs, especially those hailing from Assad's Alawite minority community, were seen fleeing the city. Watch: Iran Sends Regional Fighters To Syria: Can They Save Assad Again? × Earlier, rebels were seen firing celebratory gunfire as they entered Syria's fourth-largest city of Hama. AFP reported several residents appeared to welcome the rebels. Syrian Defence Minister Ali Abbas claimed that the army’s withdrawal from Hama was a "temporary tactical measure". "Our forces are still in the vicinity," he said in a statement carried by the official SANA news agency. In a statement released later, HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani said his fighters had entered Hama to "cleanse the wound that has endured in Syria for 40 years", referring to a crackdown on the Muslim Brotherhood in 1982, which led to thousands of deaths. Since the rebels launched their offensive last week and seized the strategic city of Aleppo; at least 826 people, including soldiers, civilians and rebels, have died. It marks the most intense fighting since 2020 in the civil war sparked by the repression of pro-democracy protests in 2011. (With inputs from agencies)

Syrian govt ‘bombs’ key bridge in bid to secure Homs as rebels seize Hama city

Syrian rebel chief Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, head of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, sent an official message Thursday using his real name for the first time after his fighters seized the strategic city of Hama.

"We congratulate the people of Hama for their victory," said the message, bearing an image of Jolani and signed "Commander Ahmed al-Sharaa".

The message was posted on the Telegram channel of rebel factions' leadership, created just days after the offensive began on November 27.

In an interview in 2021 with American public broadcaster PBS, Jolani confirmed his real name was Ahmed al-Sharaa, and said his more frequently used nom de guerre was a reference to his family origins in Syria's Golan Heights.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-forces-fight-to-stop-rebel-advance-in-key-central-city-hama-781752">Also read:&nbsp;Syria forces fight to stop rebel advance in key central city of Hama</a>

Israel seized much of the Golan Heights from Syria in 1967 and later annexed it in a move largely unrecognised by the international community.

Jolani, born in 1982, told PBS his grandfather was displaced from the Golan when the Israeli army entered the area.

The apparent switch in names comes as his fighters seize control of swathes of Syrian territory from the government, including the key cities of Aleppo and Hama.

Watch |&nbsp;Syrian Conflict: Rebel Factions Enter Hama, Oust Pro-govt Forces From Key City | World News | WION

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HTS has sought to moderate its image in recent years, including by cutting ties with its one-time sponsor Al-Qaeda, but experts say it faces an uphill battle convincing Western governments it has fully renounced hardline jihadism.

HTS says it no longer has any links to Al-Qaeda after severing them in 2016, five years into Syria's civil war.

It took on its current name the following year, arresting Al-Qaeda and Islamic State group jihadists, according to the International Crisis Group (ICG) think tank.

But it remains blacklisted by the United States and the European Union.

Several experts have warned the group has not fundamentally broken with its past despite its rebranding.

On Wednesday, images posted on HTS's Telegram channel showed the bearded Jolani waving to supporters from an open-top car as he visited Aleppo's landmark citadel.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Syrian rebel chief Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, head of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, sent an official message Thursday using his real name for the first time after his fighters seized the strategic city of Hama.

Syrian rebel chief Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, head of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, sent an official message Thursday using his real name for the first time after his fighters seized the strategic city of Hama. "We congratulate the people of Hama for their victory," said the message, bearing an image of Jolani and signed "Commander Ahmed al-Sharaa". The message was posted on the Telegram channel of rebel factions' leadership, created just days after the offensive began on November 27. In an interview in 2021 with American public broadcaster PBS, Jolani confirmed his real name was Ahmed al-Sharaa, and said his more frequently used nom de guerre was a reference to his family origins in Syria's Golan Heights. Also read: Syria forces fight to stop rebel advance in key central city of Hama Israel seized much of the Golan Heights from Syria in 1967 and later annexed it in a move largely unrecognised by the international community. Jolani, born in 1982, told PBS his grandfather was displaced from the Golan when the Israeli army entered the area. The apparent switch in names comes as his fighters seize control of swathes of Syrian territory from the government, including the key cities of Aleppo and Hama. Watch | Syrian Conflict: Rebel Factions Enter Hama, Oust Pro-govt Forces From Key City | World News | WION × HTS has sought to moderate its image in recent years, including by cutting ties with its one-time sponsor Al-Qaeda, but experts say it faces an uphill battle convincing Western governments it has fully renounced hardline jihadism. HTS says it no longer has any links to Al-Qaeda after severing them in 2016, five years into Syria's civil war. It took on its current name the following year, arresting Al-Qaeda and Islamic State group jihadists, according to the International Crisis Group (ICG) think tank. But it remains blacklisted by the United States and the European Union. Several experts have warned the group has not fundamentally broken with its past despite its rebranding. On Wednesday, images posted on HTS's Telegram channel showed the bearded Jolani waving to supporters from an open-top car as he visited Aleppo's landmark citadel. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Syrian conflict: Rebel leader uses real name for first time in official message

Syrian rebels fighting against President Bashar al-Assad's regime have now surrounded the key city of Hamama from all three sides and directions, according to a war monitor. Syria's Human Rights Observatory has reported that the rebel forces are now just 3 to 4 kilometers away from Hamama city, with only one exit toward homs in the south. Watch in for more details!

Syrian Rebels: Over 115,000 People Displaced From Aleppo City: United Nations

Syrian rebels secured control of the city of Hama on Thursday following the withdrawal of government forces from the strategically vital and historically significant central city. This victory marks the second major success for the newly established rebel coalition, which had previously taken control of Aleppo just last week. Watch to know more!

Syrian Conflict: Rebel Factions Enter Hama, Oust Pro-govt Forces From Key City | World News | WION

Syrian Rebels Capture Key City Of Hama As Army Withdraws | World News | WION

Iran said it will considers sending troops to Syria if requested by President Bashar Al-Assad

Iran Sends Regional Fighters To Syria: Can They Save Assad Again?

Syrian government forces were locked in heavy fighting around the central city of Hama on Thursday, trying to halt an advance of Islamist-led rebels, a war monitor said.

The fighting around Hama follows a rapid offensive by the rebels, who in just days captured large chunks of territory, including Syria's second city, Aleppo, from President Bashar al-Assad's control.

Strategically located in central Syria, Hama is crucial for the army’s efforts to protect the capital, Damascus.

By late Wednesday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor said rebel fighters had "surrounded Hama city from three sides".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-devastated-city-of-aleppo-back-in-rebel-hands-781342">Also read:&nbsp;Syria's devastated city of Aleppo back in rebel hands</a>

"Violent clashes took place during the night between the rebels and the regime forces", particularly in the Jabal Zayn al-Abidin area, just north of Hama, said the Britain-based monitor.

The head of the Observatory, Rami Abdel Rahman, said government troops were engaged in "fierce resistance and trying to stop the rebels' advance".

Syrian state media quoted a military source late Wednesday as saying Russian and Syrian air forces, alongside artillery units, had conducted "concentrated strikes on the... terrorists" in the Hama area.

Watch |&nbsp;War In Syria: Rebels Claim Victory In Tel Rifaat

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Maya, a 22-year-old student who gave her first name only for security concerns, said she and her family were staying at home as the fighting rages outside.

"We have been hearing non-stop the sounds of explosions and shelling," she told AFP by telephone from Hama.

"We don't know what's going on outside."

<h2>Rebel leader tours citadel&nbsp;</h2>

The Observatory, which relies on a network of sources in Syria, says 704 people, mostly combatants but also 110 civilians, have been killed in Syria since the violence erupted last week.

It marks the most intense fighting since 2020 in a country already ravaged by civil war, which erupted with the repression of pro-democracy protests in 2011.

Key to the rebels' successes since the start of the offensive last week was the takeover of Aleppo, which in more than a decade of war had never entirely fallen out of government hands.

The head of the Islamist rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, on Wednesday visited Aleppo's landmark citadel.

Jolani was seen waving to supporters from an open-top car as he visited the historic fortress, in images posted on the rebels' Telegram channel.

While the advancing rebels found little resistance earlier in their offensive, the fighting around Hama has been especially fierce.

Assad ordered a 50 per cent raise in career soldiers' pay, state news agency SANA reported, as he seeks to bolster his forces for the counteroffensive.

The Observatory said government forces brought "large military convoys to Hama" and its outskirts.

It said, "Regime forces and pro-government fighters led by Russian and Iranian officers were able to repel&nbsp;an attack northwest of Hama."

The monitor also said that the fighting was close to an area mainly populated by Alawites, followers of the same offshoot of Shiite Islam as the president.

<h2>'Scorched-earth counteroffensive'&nbsp;</h2>

The rebels launched their offensive in northern Syria on November 27, the same day a ceasefire took effect in the war between Israel and Hezbollah in neighbouring Lebanon.

Both Hezbollah and Russia have been key backers of Assad's government, but have been more recently mired in their own respective conflicts.

The United Nations on Wednesday said 115,000 people had been "newly displaced across Idlib and northern Aleppo" by the fighting.

Human Rights Watch warned the fighting "raises concerns that civilians face a real risk of serious abuses at the hands of opposition armed groups and the Syrian government".

Until last week, the war in Syria had been mostly dormant for years, but analysts have said the violence was bound to flare up as it was never truly resolved.

Spearheading the rebel alliance is HTS, which is rooted in Syria's Al-Qaeda branch.

"HTS has had a lot of time and space and resources to organise itself and to prepare for this," said analyst Sam Heller of the US-based Century Foundation think tank.

How the fighting unfolds now "depends on whether the Syrian government can regain its footing", Heller said.

"Opposition forces currently pushing south will likely get stuck somewhere in Syria's centre, when they run into really motivated and intractable loyalist resistance," he said.

"At that point, it will be a question of whether Damascus has the means to mount the type of scorched-earth counteroffensive I assume it would like to execute."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Syrian government forces were locked in heavy fighting around the central city of Hama on Thursday, trying to halt an advance of Islamist-led rebels, a war monitor said.

Syrian government forces were locked in heavy fighting around the central city of Hama on Thursday, trying to halt an advance of Islamist-led rebels, a war monitor said. The fighting around Hama follows a rapid offensive by the rebels, who in just days captured large chunks of territory, including Syria's second city, Aleppo, from President Bashar al-Assad's control. Strategically located in central Syria, Hama is crucial for the army’s efforts to protect the capital, Damascus. By late Wednesday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor said rebel fighters had "surrounded Hama city from three sides". Also read: Syria's devastated city of Aleppo back in rebel hands "Violent clashes took place during the night between the rebels and the regime forces", particularly in the Jabal Zayn al-Abidin area, just north of Hama, said the Britain-based monitor. The head of the Observatory, Rami Abdel Rahman, said government troops were engaged in "fierce resistance and trying to stop the rebels' advance". Syrian state media quoted a military source late Wednesday as saying Russian and Syrian air forces, alongside artillery units, had conducted "concentrated strikes on the... terrorists" in the Hama area. Watch | War In Syria: Rebels Claim Victory In Tel Rifaat × Maya, a 22-year-old student who gave her first name only for security concerns, said she and her family were staying at home as the fighting rages outside. "We have been hearing non-stop the sounds of explosions and shelling," she told AFP by telephone from Hama. "We don't know what's going on outside." Rebel leader tours citadel The Observatory, which relies on a network of sources in Syria, says 704 people, mostly combatants but also 110 civilians, have been killed in Syria since the violence erupted last week. It marks the most intense fighting since 2020 in a country already ravaged by civil war, which erupted with the repression of pro-democracy protests in 2011. Key to the rebels' successes since the start of the offensive last week was the takeover of Aleppo, which in more than a decade of war had never entirely fallen out of government hands. The head of the Islamist rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, on Wednesday visited Aleppo's landmark citadel. Jolani was seen waving to supporters from an open-top car as he visited the historic fortress, in images posted on the rebels' Telegram channel. While the advancing rebels found little resistance earlier in their offensive, the fighting around Hama has been especially fierce. Assad ordered a 50 per cent raise in career soldiers' pay, state news agency SANA reported, as he seeks to bolster his forces for the counteroffensive. The Observatory said government forces brought "large military convoys to Hama" and its outskirts. It said, "Regime forces and pro-government fighters led by Russian and Iranian officers were able to repel an attack northwest of Hama." The monitor also said that the fighting was close to an area mainly populated by Alawites, followers of the same offshoot of Shiite Islam as the president. 'Scorched-earth counteroffensive' The rebels launched their offensive in northern Syria on November 27, the same day a ceasefire took effect in the war between Israel and Hezbollah in neighbouring Lebanon. Both Hezbollah and Russia have been key backers of Assad's government, but have been more recently mired in their own respective conflicts. The United Nations on Wednesday said 115,000 people had been "newly displaced across Idlib and northern Aleppo" by the fighting. Human Rights Watch warned the fighting "raises concerns that civilians face a real risk of serious abuses at the hands of opposition armed groups and the Syrian government". Until last week, the war in Syria had been mostly dormant for years, but analysts have said the violence was bound to flare up as it was never truly resolved. Spearheading the rebel alliance is HTS, which is rooted in Syria's Al-Qaeda branch. "HTS has had a lot of time and space and resources to organise itself and to prepare for this," said analyst Sam Heller of the US-based Century Foundation think tank. How the fighting unfolds now "depends on whether the Syrian government can regain its footing", Heller said. "Opposition forces currently pushing south will likely get stuck somewhere in Syria's centre, when they run into really motivated and intractable loyalist resistance," he said. "At that point, it will be a question of whether Damascus has the means to mount the type of scorched-earth counteroffensive I assume it would like to execute." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Syria forces fight to stop rebel advance in key central city of Hama

The Syrian conflict has resurfaced at the UN, with the U.S. and Russia exchanging blame over the escalating violence. The exchange highlights ongoing tensions and the complex dynamics surrounding the crisis.

Syria 'Theatre Of War' Tag To Return As Conflict Enters New Phase? | WION Fineprint

Russia claims to have launched hypersonic missiles during naval and air force drills in the eastern Mediterranean. The drills coincide with Russia's allies, Syria, losing ground to rebels in the country. Watch in for more details!

Russian Military Carries Out Drills In Eastern Mediterranean

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Wednesday (Dec. 4) against a resurgence of the Islamic State group in Syria, as he called for a de-escalation in fighting in the war-torn country.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Wednesday (Dec. 4) against a resurgence of the Islamic State group in Syria, as he called for a de-escalation in fighting in the war-torn country. Syria has seen its worst violence in years after Islamist-led rebels launched a lightning offensive to seize swathes of territory from President Bashar al-Assad's control. Watch | Hezbollah-Israel War: IDF Warns 'No Immunity' To Lebanon If War Resumes × "Right now, I think what's so critical is that we see de-escalation, we ensure that civilians are protected throughout Syria, and maybe most critically, that there's a political process that moves forward," Blinken said on the sidelines of a NATO meeting in Brussels. "We have enduring interests, enduring security interests in Syria, particularly the interest in making sure that ISIS doesn't resurrect and doesn't come back." US-led forces defeated the Islamic State group in Iraq in 2017 and Syria in 2019, but jihadist fighters still operate in remote desert areas, although they no longer control territory. The US military has around 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in Iraq as part of the international anti-IS coalition that was established in 2014 to help combat the jihadists. "We also have in Syria many foreign terrorist fighters, as well as their families, who are in camps," Blinken said. "We've been working very hard to see them repatriated to their countries of origin, but there are many thousands who remain, and we certainly don't want to see those foreign terrorist fighters re-emerge." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warns against resurrection of IS in Syria

Syrian rebel forces arrived at the gates of the key city of Hama on Tuesday, as their fighting with the military sparked "a large wave of displacement", a war monitor said. The Islamist-led rebels were advancing on Syria's fourth-largest city, buoyed by their lightning capture of swathes of the north in an offensive that ended four years of relative calm.Following an uprising against the government in 2011, Syrian opposition forces have taken control of much of Aleppo, Syria's largest city, and are now moving southward, posing the biggest threat to President Bashar al-Assad in years

Syria Civil War: Massive Wave Of Displacement In Hama City Due To Infighting | World News | WION

Aleppo had been slowly recovering from the wounds inflicted by more than a decade of civil war when forces loyal to Syria's President Bashar al-Assad fled last week's rebel onslaught.

Apart from a few northern districts, most of the city -- much of which had been devastated in the conflict -- is now in the hands of Islamist-led rebels opposed to Assad.

Here is how Aleppo has suffered since the civil war erupted in 2011, when Syria's former economic and cultural capital had an estimated population of two million people.

<h2>- Wary Christians -</h2>

When the uprising began against Assad, there were about 200,000 Christians, including 50,000 ethnic Armenians, living in Aleppo, where the majority are Muslims. But that figure has since fallen to 30,000 Christians, a third of them Armenian, according to sources within the community.

The arrival last week of the radical rebels, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), caused huge concern among Christians in the city. HTS representatives have been to a convent and a hospital run by Christians in a bid to assure them of their safety, the community sources said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-nato-chief-sidesteps-talk-of-kyivs-membership-says-priority-is-781242">Russia-Ukraine war: NATO chief sidesteps talk of Kyiv's membership, says 'priority is...'</a>

<h2>- Divided and devastated -</h2>

Aleppo was an early venue for demonstrations against Assad in 2011 that turned into the civil war. By July 2012, the Syrian Free Army had taken half of the city.

For four years, Aleppo was divided between a loyalist sector in the west -- with most of the population -- and rebels in a small zone in the east.

The Syrian regime was accused of dropping "barrel bombs" from helicopters and other aircraft onto rebel areas. The insurgents fired rockets into government territory.

Russia came to Assad's assistance in September 2015, helping government forces to lay siege to the rebel zone by cutting off its last supply route.

Government forces reclaimed complete control of the city on December 22, 2016 when a final convoy of rebels and civilians left eastern Aleppo.

<h2>- Heritage collapse -</h2>

A key stop on the Silk Route between the Mediterranean and Mesopotamia, Aleppo is one of the world's oldest cities, dating back to 4,000 BC.

As a manufacturing centre, it was still the second most important city in the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century.

Aleppo's old city was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1986. With the civil war raging, it was added to UNESCO's endangered list in 2013.

The damage to the city has been widespread.

Part of Aleppo's ancient ramparts collapsed in July 2015. The minaret on the Great Mosque of Aleppo was also destroyed.

The Aleppo souk, with its 4,000 traders, was nearly burned down but has been partially rebuilt.

Aleppo's traditional music, Al-Qudoud al-Halabiya, is on UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage. Performed at religious and entertainment events, it is often heard in the alleyways of the Old City.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Aleppo had been slowly recovering from the wounds inflicted by more than a decade of civil war when forces loyal to Syria's President Bashar al-Assad fled last week's rebel onslaught.

Aleppo had been slowly recovering from the wounds inflicted by more than a decade of civil war when forces loyal to Syria's President Bashar al-Assad fled last week's rebel onslaught. Apart from a few northern districts, most of the city -- much of which had been devastated in the conflict -- is now in the hands of Islamist-led rebels opposed to Assad. Here is how Aleppo has suffered since the civil war erupted in 2011, when Syria's former economic and cultural capital had an estimated population of two million people. - Wary Christians - When the uprising began against Assad, there were about 200,000 Christians, including 50,000 ethnic Armenians, living in Aleppo, where the majority are Muslims. But that figure has since fallen to 30,000 Christians, a third of them Armenian, according to sources within the community. The arrival last week of the radical rebels, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), caused huge concern among Christians in the city. HTS representatives have been to a convent and a hospital run by Christians in a bid to assure them of their safety, the community sources said. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: NATO chief sidesteps talk of Kyiv's membership, says 'priority is...' - Divided and devastated - Aleppo was an early venue for demonstrations against Assad in 2011 that turned into the civil war. By July 2012, the Syrian Free Army had taken half of the city. For four years, Aleppo was divided between a loyalist sector in the west -- with most of the population -- and rebels in a small zone in the east. The Syrian regime was accused of dropping "barrel bombs" from helicopters and other aircraft onto rebel areas. The insurgents fired rockets into government territory. Russia came to Assad's assistance in September 2015, helping government forces to lay siege to the rebel zone by cutting off its last supply route. Government forces reclaimed complete control of the city on December 22, 2016 when a final convoy of rebels and civilians left eastern Aleppo. - Heritage collapse - A key stop on the Silk Route between the Mediterranean and Mesopotamia, Aleppo is one of the world's oldest cities, dating back to 4,000 BC. As a manufacturing centre, it was still the second most important city in the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century. Aleppo's old city was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1986. With the civil war raging, it was added to UNESCO's endangered list in 2013. The damage to the city has been widespread. Part of Aleppo's ancient ramparts collapsed in July 2015. The minaret on the Great Mosque of Aleppo was also destroyed. The Aleppo souk, with its 4,000 traders, was nearly burned down but has been partially rebuilt. Aleppo's traditional music, Al-Qudoud al-Halabiya, is on UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage. Performed at religious and entertainment events, it is often heard in the alleyways of the Old City. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Syria's devastated city of Aleppo back in rebel hands

The prolonged Syrian conflict, which has caused immense human suffering and regional instability, remains one of the most complex international crises. With shifting alliances and geopolitical stakes involving players like Russia, Iran, Turkey, and the U.S., questions linger about the Trump administration's commitment to ending the war. Watch in for more details!

Syria: Shock Rebel Offensive Reignites Long-Running Civil War | World News | WION Fineprint

Ukraine said Monday that Russia and Iran bear ultimate responsibility for intensified fighting in Syria where Islamist forces and allies have seized swathes of government-controlled territory.

Both Russia, which invaded Ukraine in 2022, and Iran have long backed President Bashar al-Assad and say they will help his forces fight back after Aleppo, Syria's second city, fell out of government control.

"Syria state is going through a new dangerous stage of the war, which could lead to unpredictable consequences for regional peace and security," the Ukrainian foreign ministry said.

Watch:&nbsp;Syria Rebels: Iran President Pezeshkian Vows To Support Assad Government

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&nbsp;

"It is Moscow and Tehran that bear the main responsibility for the degradation of the security situation in Syria," it said in a statement, adding that Assad's rule was also to blame for Syrians' "suffering and hardships".

Kyiv, in the statement, hit out at Assad for recognising the Russian annexation of the Crimean peninsula in 2014 and said Ukrainians were also being targeted on a nightly basis by Iranian-designed drones.

"The Russian dictator Putin and his allies in Iran continue to make every effort not to lose control over the puppet Syrian regime, which is associated by the majority of Syrians with inhuman cruelty, tyranny, and crimes," the statement said.

Kyiv called for the territorial integrity of Syria to be respected and called for an end to the long-running conflict as soon as possible.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
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Ukraine said Monday that Russia and Iran bear ultimate responsibility for intensified fighting in Syria where Islamist forces and allies have seized swathes of government-controlled territory.

Ukraine said Monday that Russia and Iran bear ultimate responsibility for intensified fighting in Syria where Islamist forces and allies have seized swathes of government-controlled territory. Both Russia, which invaded Ukraine in 2022, and Iran have long backed President Bashar al-Assad and say they will help his forces fight back after Aleppo, Syria's second city, fell out of government control. "Syria state is going through a new dangerous stage of the war, which could lead to unpredictable consequences for regional peace and security," the Ukrainian foreign ministry said. Watch: Syria Rebels: Iran President Pezeshkian Vows To Support Assad Government × "It is Moscow and Tehran that bear the main responsibility for the degradation of the security situation in Syria," it said in a statement, adding that Assad's rule was also to blame for Syrians' "suffering and hardships". Kyiv, in the statement, hit out at Assad for recognising the Russian annexation of the Crimean peninsula in 2014 and said Ukrainians were also being targeted on a nightly basis by Iranian-designed drones. "The Russian dictator Putin and his allies in Iran continue to make every effort not to lose control over the puppet Syrian regime, which is associated by the majority of Syrians with inhuman cruelty, tyranny, and crimes," the statement said. Kyiv called for the territorial integrity of Syria to be respected and called for an end to the long-running conflict as soon as possible. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Kyiv blames Tehran, Moscow for Syria escalation as Islamists take on Assad

Headlines: - Blame Game Over Syria - Lebanon Alleges Truce Violation - Georgia Protests For EU

Blame Game Over Syria | Lebanon Alleges Truce Violation | Georgia Protests For EU | WION Headlines

Bashar al-Assad is seeking to shore up support from his allies after a shock rebel offensive saw his forces lose control of Aleppo. Syrian and Russian air strikes pummeled areas of northern Syria as Iran's top diplomat visited Damascus in a show of support for the regime. Watch in for more details!

West Asia: Syrian Army Try To Take Back Control Of Aleppo, Other Towns

Syria's second largest city Aleppo has been seized by rebels for the first time since the country's conflict began more than a decade ago. The surprise advance by rebels has put the Assad government on the back foot. Iran and its proxies have accused the US and Israel for the fall of the second largest Syrian city of Aleppo. Watch in for more details!

Rebels Seize Control Of Syria's Second-Largest City: What Led To The Fall Of Aleppo?

West Asia: Syrian And Russian Airstrikes Hit Areas In Northern Syria

Syrian opposition forces seize control of large parts of Aleppo in a surprise attack. The rebel advance challenges President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, leading to heavy casualties

Syria Rebels Take Control Of Aleppo After 8 Years, Government Forces Counterattack

As the air strikes by the Syrian government and Russia intensified, at least 25 people lost their lives in northwestern Syria, said the Syrian opposition-run rescue service known as the White Helmets early on Monday (Dec 2).

Russian and Syrian jets bombarded the rebel-held city of Idlib situated in the northern part of Syria, said military sources on Sunday (Dec 1).

The attacks come after President Bashar al-Assad pledged to defeat insurgents who recently gained control of Aleppo.

The military also said that it had seized multiple towns that the rebels had invaded.

One of the residents, as per news agency Reuters, said that the attack struck a crowded residential area in the heart of Idlib.

At least seven people lost their lives and dozens were wounded, said the rescuers.

The Syrian military and its ally Russia denied attacking civilians, saying they are only targeting the hideouts of the insurgent groups.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-the-syrian-rebel-faction-leading-the-offensive-on-aleppo-780686">Who are the Syrian rebels who have taken Aleppo after shock offensive?</a>

At least 10 children were among the ones who lost their lives in the air strikes in and around Idlib, said the White Helmets.

The group, in a post on X, said the death toll from Syrian and Russian strikes since Wednesday (Nov 27) rose up to 56.

This includes 20 children.

<h2>Aleppo no longer under Assad govt's control&nbsp;</h2>

The Aleppo city of Syria is no longer under the control of President Bashar al-Assad's government, for the first time since the conflict began in the country, the news agency AFP reported on Sunday (Dec 1), citing a war monitor.

Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, told AFP news agency that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and allied rebel factions "control Aleppo city, except the neighbourhoods controlled by the Kurdish forces."

"For the first time since the conflict started in 2012, Aleppo city is out of control of Syrian regime forces," Rahman added.

In the shock offensive, rebel factions breached Aleppo on Friday and clashed with government forces for the first time since 2016.

The advance on Aleppo followed a shock offensive by insurgents on Wednesday.

The surprise attack sent residents fleeing and added fresh uncertainty to a region reeling under multiple wars.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As the air strikes by the Syrian government and Russia intensified, at least 25 people lost their lives in northwestern Syria, said the Syrian opposition-run rescue service known as the White Helmets early on Monday (Dec 2).

As the air strikes by the Syrian government and Russia intensified, at least 25 people lost their lives in northwestern Syria, said the Syrian opposition-run rescue service known as the White Helmets early on Monday (Dec 2). Russian and Syrian jets bombarded the rebel-held city of Idlib situated in the northern part of Syria, said military sources on Sunday (Dec 1). The attacks come after President Bashar al-Assad pledged to defeat insurgents who recently gained control of Aleppo. The military also said that it had seized multiple towns that the rebels had invaded. One of the residents, as per news agency Reuters, said that the attack struck a crowded residential area in the heart of Idlib. At least seven people lost their lives and dozens were wounded, said the rescuers. The Syrian military and its ally Russia denied attacking civilians, saying they are only targeting the hideouts of the insurgent groups. Also read: Who are the Syrian rebels who have taken Aleppo after shock offensive? At least 10 children were among the ones who lost their lives in the air strikes in and around Idlib, said the White Helmets. The group, in a post on X, said the death toll from Syrian and Russian strikes since Wednesday (Nov 27) rose up to 56. This includes 20 children. Aleppo no longer under Assad govt's control The Aleppo city of Syria is no longer under the control of President Bashar al-Assad's government, for the first time since the conflict began in the country, the news agency AFP reported on Sunday (Dec 1), citing a war monitor. Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, told AFP news agency that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and allied rebel factions "control Aleppo city, except the neighbourhoods controlled by the Kurdish forces." "For the first time since the conflict started in 2012, Aleppo city is out of control of Syrian regime forces," Rahman added. In the shock offensive, rebel factions breached Aleppo on Friday and clashed with government forces for the first time since 2016. The advance on Aleppo followed a shock offensive by insurgents on Wednesday. The surprise attack sent residents fleeing and added fresh uncertainty to a region reeling under multiple wars. (With inputs from agencies)

Syrian and Russian jets intensify strikes on opposition forces, at least 25 killed

Earlier this week, rebel factions in Syria launched a large-scale surprise attack on areas controlled by the government and seized territory in the country's northwestern region.

Earlier this week, rebel factions in Syria launched a large-scale surprise attack on areas controlled by the government and seized territory in the country's northwestern region. On Saturday (Nov 30), thousands of insurgents took over most of Aleppo, facing very little resistance from the government forces. A day later, the war monitor Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that Aleppo was not under the control of President Bashar al-Assad's government for the first time since the civil war began in 2012. Also read | Aleppo no longer under Assad govt's control for first time since Syrian civil war From Aleppo, the rebels moved on, here too facing almost no opposition from government forces, to seize towns and villages in northern Hama, a province where they had a presence before being expelled by government troops in 2016. So who are the rebels leading the offensive on Aleppo and other parts of Syria? Here are the details: A look at Hayat Tahrir-al Sham The current offensive is being led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, known by its initials HTS. The United States (US) and the United Nations (UN) have designated the HTS as a terrorist organisation. Abu Mohammad al-Julani is the leader of HTS. Citing researcher Aaron Zelin, a report by the news agency Associated Press said that Julani and the HTS have sought to remake themselves in recent years, focusing on promoting civilian government in their territory as well as military action. Julani's group broke ties with Al-Qaeda in 2016. He had been the leader of the now-defunct Al-Nusra Front, the former Syrian branch of Al-Qaeda. Also watch | World DNA: Aleppo falls to rebel forces × The Associated Press report said that Julani cracked down on some extremist groups in his territory and has increasingly portrayed himself as a protector of other religions. That includes last year allowing the first Christian Mass in the city of Idlib in years. The current offensive On Wednesday (Nov. 27), insurgents led by the HTS launched their shock offensive. They first staged a two-pronged attack in Aleppo and the Idlib countryside, entering Aleppo two days later and securing a strategic town that lies on the highway that links Syria’s largest city to the capital and the coast. By Saturday evening, they seized at least four towns in the central Hama province and claimed to have entered the provincial capital. The rebels also staged an attempt to reclaim areas they controlled in Hama in 2017 but failed. Syrian President Bashar Al Assad has been strongly backed by Russia and Iran since 2011, when civil war broke out after protests against his rule were suppressed. (With inputs from agencies)

Who are the Syrian rebels who have taken Aleppo after shock offensive?

Syrian rebels attacked the government forces in&nbsp;Aleppo on Friday (Nov 29). This was the first attack by the opposition forces since 2016 when they were ousted from the region after a military campaign.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in the latest in the Ukraine war, energy workers in the war-torn country&nbsp;are carrying out repairs in the country's power facilities despite Russia targeting the country's power grid, according to a report by the news agency Associated Press.&nbsp;

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Florida to meet Donald Trump and talk about the 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods the latter has threatened to impose. Trudeau is hoping to fend off the problem during the talks.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-syrian-rebels-attack-aleppo-for-the-first-time-since-2016-dozens-killed-780363">West Asia Crisis: Syrian rebels attack Aleppo for the first time since 2016, dozens killed</a>

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For the first time since 2016, rebels breached Syria's largest city on Friday (Nov 29) and clashed with government forces. This came as a surprise attack in&nbsp;Aleppo that forced residents to flee the area and added to the uncertainty in the region, which is already facing other conflicts and wars. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-ukrainian-energy-workers-carry-out-repairs-despite-energy-grid-being-targeted-by-russia-780367">Ukraine war: Ukrainian energy workers carry out repairs despite power grid being targeted by Russia</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/30/468764-untitled-1.png?imwidth=400" />

Energy workers in war-torn Ukraine are carrying out repairs in the country's power facilities despite Russia targeting the country's power grid, a report by the news agency Associated Press late Friday (Nov 29) said.&nbsp;Since the Russia-Ukraine war began in late February 2022, repeated Russian strikes on&nbsp;infrastructure have seriously impacted Ukraine’s energy sector often resulting in rolling blackouts across the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-pm-trudeau-in-florida-to-meet-trump-and-discuss-tariffs-threat-780359">Canadian PM Trudeau in Florida to discuss tariffs threat with Trump over dinner&nbsp;at&nbsp;Mar-a-Lago</a>

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Florida to meet Donald Trump and talk about the 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods the latter has threatened to impose. Trudeau is hoping to fend off the problem during the talks.&nbsp;Canadian media reports suggest that the PM landed in Palm Beach International Airport on Friday evening to visit Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blast-damages-canal-feeding-kosovos-main-power-plants-pm-calls-explosion-terrorist-attack-780357">Blast damages canal feeding Kosovo's main power plants, PM calls explosion 'terrorist attack'</a>

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A blast on Friday (Nov 29) evening damaged a canal supplying water to Kosovo's two main coal-fired power plants, Prime Minister Albin Kurti said. Addressing a press conference, Prime Minister Kurti said, "This is a criminal and terrorist attack aimed at damaging our critical infrastructure."

Watch |&nbsp;Iran Plans To Install 6,000 Centrifuges To Enrich Uranium: IAEA

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Syrian rebels attacked the government forces in Aleppo on Friday (Nov 29). This was the first attack by the opposition forces since 2016 when they were ousted from the region after a military campaign.

Syrian rebels attacked the government forces in Aleppo on Friday (Nov 29). This was the first attack by the opposition forces since 2016 when they were ousted from the region after a military campaign. Meanwhile, in the latest in the Ukraine war, energy workers in the war-torn country are carrying out repairs in the country's power facilities despite Russia targeting the country's power grid, according to a report by the news agency Associated Press. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Florida to meet Donald Trump and talk about the 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods the latter has threatened to impose. Trudeau is hoping to fend off the problem during the talks. Click on the headlines to read more West Asia Crisis: Syrian rebels attack Aleppo for the first time since 2016, dozens killed For the first time since 2016, rebels breached Syria's largest city on Friday (Nov 29) and clashed with government forces. This came as a surprise attack in Aleppo that forced residents to flee the area and added to the uncertainty in the region, which is already facing other conflicts and wars. Ukraine war: Ukrainian energy workers carry out repairs despite power grid being targeted by Russia Energy workers in war-torn Ukraine are carrying out repairs in the country's power facilities despite Russia targeting the country's power grid, a report by the news agency Associated Press late Friday (Nov 29) said. Since the Russia-Ukraine war began in late February 2022, repeated Russian strikes on infrastructure have seriously impacted Ukraine’s energy sector often resulting in rolling blackouts across the country. Canadian PM Trudeau in Florida to discuss tariffs threat with Trump over dinner at Mar-a-Lago Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Florida to meet Donald Trump and talk about the 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods the latter has threatened to impose. Trudeau is hoping to fend off the problem during the talks. Canadian media reports suggest that the PM landed in Palm Beach International Airport on Friday evening to visit Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate. Blast damages canal feeding Kosovo's main power plants, PM calls explosion 'terrorist attack' A blast on Friday (Nov 29) evening damaged a canal supplying water to Kosovo's two main coal-fired power plants, Prime Minister Albin Kurti said. Addressing a press conference, Prime Minister Kurti said, "This is a criminal and terrorist attack aimed at damaging our critical infrastructure." Watch | Iran Plans To Install 6,000 Centrifuges To Enrich Uranium: IAEA ×

Morning brief: Trudeau-Trump to meet to discuss tariffs; West Asia crisis updates, and more

Jihadists and their Turkish-backed allies breached Syria's second city of Aleppo as they pressed a lightning offensive against forces of the Iranian and Russian-backed Assad government. The rebels wrested the key Syrian town of Saraqib from government forces on Friday as the two sides battle for control of the northwest of the country. Watch in for more details!

Syrian Rebels Enter Aleppo In Surprise Offensive

For the first time since 2016, rebels breached Syria's largest city on Friday (Nov 29) and clashed with government forces as&nbsp;Russian air strikes hit Aleppo.&nbsp;This came as a surprise attack&nbsp;that forced residents of the city to flee and added to the uncertainty in the region, which is already facing other conflicts and wars. &nbsp;

Witnesses told the Associate Press news agency that residents left the area and fled to neighbouring regions after missiles and gunfire in the clash between government forces and insurgents.&nbsp;

It was further reported that at least dozens of fighters were killed from both sides. The attack came as an addition to the region's already struggling condition as it is facing dual wars in Gaza and Lebanon involving Israel. Syrian civil war, which started in 2011, is also part of the list of conflicts the region is facing.&nbsp;

Watch | Iran Injects Gas Into New Centrifuges Ahead of Nuke Talks with European Powers

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In 2016, the opposition forces were ousted by the Syrian government from the eastern regions after a military campaign supported by Russia, Iran and its allies. Aleppo has not been attacked since then.&nbsp;

But this time, the government forces or its allied forces have not seen any pushback. In fact, insurgents seemed confident in their approach, reportedly posting on social media asking the government forces to surrender.&nbsp;

Talking to AP, Robert Ford, who was the last US Ambassador to Syria, called the Syrian government forces "extremely weak." &nbsp;

The advances of this week were among the largest attacks by the opposition forces in the region in recent years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-warns-lebanese-civilians-to-not-return-to-over-60-southern-villages-780308">Israel warns Lebanese civilians to not return to over 60 southern villages</a>

Opposition forces like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group (HTS) represent the most intense fighting in northwestern Syria since 2020. That was the year when government forces seized the areas that were controlled by the opposition forces.&nbsp;

This came as the Iran-linked group, especially Lebanon-based Hezbollah have been busy with its battles at home. Hezbollah is said to be supporting the Syrian government in pushing back the opposition forces. But since the announcement of the Lebanon ceasefire with Israel, it's occupied with handling situations back home.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

For the first time since 2016, rebels breached Syria's largest city on Friday (Nov 29) and clashed with government forces as Russian air strikes hit Aleppo. This came as a surprise attack that forced residents of the city to flee and added to the uncertainty in the region, which is already facing other conflicts and wars.

For the first time since 2016, rebels breached Syria's largest city on Friday (Nov 29) and clashed with government forces as Russian air strikes hit Aleppo. This came as a surprise attack that forced residents of the city to flee and added to the uncertainty in the region, which is already facing other conflicts and wars. Witnesses told the Associate Press news agency that residents left the area and fled to neighbouring regions after missiles and gunfire in the clash between government forces and insurgents. It was further reported that at least dozens of fighters were killed from both sides. The attack came as an addition to the region's already struggling condition as it is facing dual wars in Gaza and Lebanon involving Israel. Syrian civil war, which started in 2011, is also part of the list of conflicts the region is facing. Watch | Iran Injects Gas Into New Centrifuges Ahead of Nuke Talks with European Powers × In 2016, the opposition forces were ousted by the Syrian government from the eastern regions after a military campaign supported by Russia, Iran and its allies. Aleppo has not been attacked since then. But this time, the government forces or its allied forces have not seen any pushback. In fact, insurgents seemed confident in their approach, reportedly posting on social media asking the government forces to surrender. Talking to AP, Robert Ford, who was the last US Ambassador to Syria, called the Syrian government forces "extremely weak." The advances of this week were among the largest attacks by the opposition forces in the region in recent years. Also read | Israel warns Lebanese civilians to not return to over 60 southern villages Opposition forces like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group (HTS) represent the most intense fighting in northwestern Syria since 2020. That was the year when government forces seized the areas that were controlled by the opposition forces. This came as the Iran-linked group, especially Lebanon-based Hezbollah have been busy with its battles at home. Hezbollah is said to be supporting the Syrian government in pushing back the opposition forces. But since the announcement of the Lebanon ceasefire with Israel, it's occupied with handling situations back home. (With inputs from agencies)

Syria war monitor: Russian air strikes hit Aleppo for the first time since 2016

Jihadists and their Turkish-backed allies shelled Syria's second city Aleppo on Friday, in a major offensive against government troops that has sparked some of the deadliest fighting the country has seen in years.

The violence has killed 255 people, according to a Syrian war monitor, most of them combatants on both sides but also including civilians. The toll also includes 24 civilians, most killed in Russian air strikes.

The offensive began at a sensitive time for Syria and the region, with a fragile ceasefire between the Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israel taking effect earlier this week in neighbouring Lebanon.

By Friday, they had wrested more than 50 towns and villages in north and northwestern Syria, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the biggest advances that anti-government factions had made in years.

Army reinforcements have arrived in Aleppo, a Syrian government security official told AFP, requesting anonymity to discuss sensitive matters. The official added that "there are fierce battles and clashes west of Aleppo, but they have not reached the city".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-says-critical-ceasefire-needed-to-stop-syria-from-entering-war-zone-778866">Also read:&nbsp;UN says ‘critical’ ceasefire needed to stop Syria from entering war zone</a>

This week, jihadists and factions backed by Turkey, which neighbours Syria and supported the rebellion against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, launched a major surprise offensive against government forces.

They shelled a university student residence on Friday in government-held Aleppo, northern Syria's main city, killing four civilians according to state media.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said "more than 14,000 people –- nearly half are children -- have been displaced" by the violence.

Aleppo resident Sarmad, 51, told AFP he could hear "the sounds of missiles and artillery shelling around the clock".

Watch |&nbsp;Syrian And Russian Forces Launch Airstrikes In Rebel-Held Northwestern Syria | World DNA | WION

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"We're scared that war will break out and we'll be displaced from our homes again," he said.

Nasser Hamdo, 36, who works in a pastry shop, said he had been glued to the news since hostilities began.

The fighters had on Thursday cut the highway linking Aleppo to Syria's capital Damascus, about 300 kilometres (185 miles) south, according to the Britain-based Observatory.

"We're worried that roads getting blocked could cause fuel prices to soar and prevent goods from reaching the city," Hamdo said.

Syria's civil war began when Assad's forces cracked down in 2011 on pro-democracy protests.

Since then, the conflict has killed more than 500,000 people, displaced millions, and morphed into a complex war drawing in jihadists and foreign powers, including Assad's allies Russia, Iran and Hezbollah.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Friday described the situation in Aleppo as "an infringement on the sovereignty of Syria."

He expressed support for "the government of Syria to quickly restore order in this district and restore the constitutional order."

At a press conference earlier this week, Mohamed Bashir of the jihadist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) said: "This operation aims to repel the sources of fire of the criminal enemy from the frontlines."

HTS, led by Al-Qaeda's former Syria branch, controls swathes of the Idlib region as well as small parts of neighbouring Aleppo, Hama and Latakia provinces.

The Idlib area where the jihadists are based has been subject to a Turkey and Russia-brokered truce since 2020. The ceasefire has been repeatedly violated but has largely been holding.

An AFP correspondent based in rebel-held areas saw jihadists advancing in tanks as intense exchanges of fire took place in an area just seven kilometres from the city of Aleppo.

AFP images showed damaged and abandoned Syrian army tanks and other military vehicles in the region.

The correspondent said the jihadists and their Turkey-backed allies took orders from a joint military operations command.

Analyst Nick Heras, of the New Lines Institute for Strategy and Policy, said the fighters were "trying to preempt the possibility of a Syrian military campaign in the region of Aleppo".

According to Heras, the Syrian government and its key backer Russia had been preparing for such a campaign.

Russia intervened in Syria's civil war in 2015, turning the momentum of the conflict in favour of the president, whose forces at the time had lost control of most of the country.

Turkey, Heras said, maybe "sending a message to both Damascus and Moscow to back down from their military efforts in northwest Syria".

Other interests are also at stake.

As well as Russia, Assad has been propped up by Iran and allied militant groups, including Lebanon's powerful Hezbollah.

Iran-backed militias have a heavy presence in the Aleppo region after providing crucial ground support to the army in its recapture of rebel-held districts of the city in 2016.

Anti-government forces are, according to Heras, "in a better position to take and seize villages than Russian-backed Syrian government forces, while the Iranians are focused on Lebanon".

During its war with Hezbollah in Lebanon, Israel intensified its strikes on Iran-backed groups in Syria including Hezbollah.

Rami Abdel Rahman, director of the Observatory, said Assad's forces "were totally unprepared" for the attack.

"It is strange to see regime forces being dealt such big blows despite Russian air cover and early signs that HTS was going to launch this operation," Abdel Rahman said.

"Were they depending on Hezbollah, which is now busy in Lebanon?"

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Jihadists and their Turkish-backed allies shelled Syria's second city Aleppo on Friday, in a major offensive against government troops that has sparked some of the deadliest fighting the country has seen in years.

Jihadists and their Turkish-backed allies shelled Syria's second city Aleppo on Friday, in a major offensive against government troops that has sparked some of the deadliest fighting the country has seen in years. The violence has killed 255 people, according to a Syrian war monitor, most of them combatants on both sides but also including civilians. The toll also includes 24 civilians, most killed in Russian air strikes. The offensive began at a sensitive time for Syria and the region, with a fragile ceasefire between the Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israel taking effect earlier this week in neighbouring Lebanon. By Friday, they had wrested more than 50 towns and villages in north and northwestern Syria, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the biggest advances that anti-government factions had made in years. Army reinforcements have arrived in Aleppo, a Syrian government security official told AFP, requesting anonymity to discuss sensitive matters. The official added that "there are fierce battles and clashes west of Aleppo, but they have not reached the city". Also read: UN says ‘critical’ ceasefire needed to stop Syria from entering war zone This week, jihadists and factions backed by Turkey, which neighbours Syria and supported the rebellion against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, launched a major surprise offensive against government forces. They shelled a university student residence on Friday in government-held Aleppo, northern Syria's main city, killing four civilians according to state media. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said "more than 14,000 people –- nearly half are children -- have been displaced" by the violence. Aleppo resident Sarmad, 51, told AFP he could hear "the sounds of missiles and artillery shelling around the clock". Watch | Syrian And Russian Forces Launch Airstrikes In Rebel-Held Northwestern Syria | World DNA | WION × "We're scared that war will break out and we'll be displaced from our homes again," he said. Nasser Hamdo, 36, who works in a pastry shop, said he had been glued to the news since hostilities began. The fighters had on Thursday cut the highway linking Aleppo to Syria's capital Damascus, about 300 kilometres (185 miles) south, according to the Britain-based Observatory. "We're worried that roads getting blocked could cause fuel prices to soar and prevent goods from reaching the city," Hamdo said. Syria's civil war began when Assad's forces cracked down in 2011 on pro-democracy protests. Since then, the conflict has killed more than 500,000 people, displaced millions, and morphed into a complex war drawing in jihadists and foreign powers, including Assad's allies Russia, Iran and Hezbollah. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Friday described the situation in Aleppo as "an infringement on the sovereignty of Syria." He expressed support for "the government of Syria to quickly restore order in this district and restore the constitutional order." At a press conference earlier this week, Mohamed Bashir of the jihadist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) said: "This operation aims to repel the sources of fire of the criminal enemy from the frontlines." HTS, led by Al-Qaeda's former Syria branch, controls swathes of the Idlib region as well as small parts of neighbouring Aleppo, Hama and Latakia provinces. The Idlib area where the jihadists are based has been subject to a Turkey and Russia-brokered truce since 2020. The ceasefire has been repeatedly violated but has largely been holding. An AFP correspondent based in rebel-held areas saw jihadists advancing in tanks as intense exchanges of fire took place in an area just seven kilometres from the city of Aleppo. AFP images showed damaged and abandoned Syrian army tanks and other military vehicles in the region. The correspondent said the jihadists and their Turkey-backed allies took orders from a joint military operations command. Analyst Nick Heras, of the New Lines Institute for Strategy and Policy, said the fighters were "trying to preempt the possibility of a Syrian military campaign in the region of Aleppo". According to Heras, the Syrian government and its key backer Russia had been preparing for such a campaign. Russia intervened in Syria's civil war in 2015, turning the momentum of the conflict in favour of the president, whose forces at the time had lost control of most of the country. Turkey, Heras said, maybe "sending a message to both Damascus and Moscow to back down from their military efforts in northwest Syria". Other interests are also at stake. As well as Russia, Assad has been propped up by Iran and allied militant groups, including Lebanon's powerful Hezbollah. Iran-backed militias have a heavy presence in the Aleppo region after providing crucial ground support to the army in its recapture of rebel-held districts of the city in 2016. Anti-government forces are, according to Heras, "in a better position to take and seize villages than Russian-backed Syrian government forces, while the Iranians are focused on Lebanon". During its war with Hezbollah in Lebanon, Israel intensified its strikes on Iran-backed groups in Syria including Hezbollah. Rami Abdel Rahman, director of the Observatory, said Assad's forces "were totally unprepared" for the attack. "It is strange to see regime forces being dealt such big blows despite Russian air cover and early signs that HTS was going to launch this operation," Abdel Rahman said. "Were they depending on Hezbollah, which is now busy in Lebanon?" Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Syria jihadists and Turkish-based allies launch major offensive in Aleppo city

Russian and Syrian air forces conducted airstrikes in northwest Syria, near the Turkish border, targeting rebel-held areas to counter a rare territorial advance by insurgents, according to Syrian army and rebel sources. Watch to know more!

Syrian And Russian Forces Launch Airstrikes In Rebel-Held Northwestern Syria | World DNA | WION

Archaeologists made a stunning discovery of the world's oldest known alphabetic writing etched on the finger-length&nbsp;clay cylinders found in excavation of a tomb in&nbsp;Syria.

The writing was found to be dated to around 2400 BC by researchers at <a href="https://hub.jhu.edu/2024/11/21/ancient-alphabet-discovered-syria/">Johns Hopkins University</a> in the United States.

The findings were presented at the American Society of Overseas Research's annual meeting. “Alphabetic writing changed the way people lived, how they thought, how they communicated,” said archaeologist Glenn Schwartz, who was behind the discovery of the clay cylinder.

<h2>Alphabets revolutionised language, say experts</h2>

According to the experts, this form of writing is likely to have revolutionised language because it was accessible to people who were beyond the social elite and royalty.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/archaeologists-find-1600-year-old-amulet-with-depiction-of-king-solomon-killing-devil-in-turkey-777748">&nbsp;Archaeologists find 1,600-year-old amulet with depiction of King Solomon killing devil in Turkey</a>

"Alphabets revolutionised writing by making it accessible to people beyond royalty and the social elite. Alphabetic writing changed the way people lived, how they thought, how they communicated," said Schwartz in a press release.&nbsp;

"And this new discovery shows that people were experimenting with new communication technologies much earlier and in a different location than we had imagined before now," he added.&nbsp;

Speaking about the lightly baked clay cylinders, on which alphabetic writing was etched, Dr Schwartz said, “And this new discovery shows that people were experimenting with new communication technologies much earlier and in a different location than we had imagined before now."

Based on small perforations that were on the clay cylinders, scientists said that it most probably tethered to another object.

Watch:&nbsp;RWA Illegally Occupies Lodhi Era Tomb 'Gumti Of Shaikh Ali', SC Expresses Displeasure

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“Maybe they detail the contents of a vessel, or maybe where the vessel came from, or who it belonged to,” explained Dr Schwartz.

“Without a means to translate the writing, we can only speculate," he added. The researchers used carbon dating techniques to confirm that the tombs, the artefacts, and the writing all dated back to 2400 BC.

“Previously, scholars thought the&nbsp;alphabet&nbsp;was invented in or around Egypt sometime after 1900 BCE,” said Dr Schwartz.&nbsp;

“But our artefacts are older and from a different area on the map, suggesting the alphabet may have an entirely different origin story than we thought," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Archaeologists made a stunning discovery of the world's oldest known alphabetic writing etched on the finger-length clay cylinders found in excavation of a tomb in Syria.

Archaeologists made a stunning discovery of the world's oldest known alphabetic writing etched on the finger-length clay cylinders found in excavation of a tomb in Syria. The writing was found to be dated to around 2400 BC by researchers at Johns Hopkins University in the United States. The findings were presented at the American Society of Overseas Research's annual meeting. “Alphabetic writing changed the way people lived, how they thought, how they communicated,” said archaeologist Glenn Schwartz, who was behind the discovery of the clay cylinder. Alphabets revolutionised language, say experts According to the experts, this form of writing is likely to have revolutionised language because it was accessible to people who were beyond the social elite and royalty. Also Read: Archaeologists find 1,600-year-old amulet with depiction of King Solomon killing devil in Turkey "Alphabets revolutionised writing by making it accessible to people beyond royalty and the social elite. Alphabetic writing changed the way people lived, how they thought, how they communicated," said Schwartz in a press release. "And this new discovery shows that people were experimenting with new communication technologies much earlier and in a different location than we had imagined before now," he added. Speaking about the lightly baked clay cylinders, on which alphabetic writing was etched, Dr Schwartz said, “And this new discovery shows that people were experimenting with new communication technologies much earlier and in a different location than we had imagined before now." Based on small perforations that were on the clay cylinders, scientists said that it most probably tethered to another object. Watch: RWA Illegally Occupies Lodhi Era Tomb 'Gumti Of Shaikh Ali', SC Expresses Displeasure “Maybe they detail the contents of a vessel, or maybe where the vessel came from, or who it belonged to,” explained Dr Schwartz. “Without a means to translate the writing, we can only speculate," he added. The researchers used carbon dating techniques to confirm that the tombs, the artefacts, and the writing all dated back to 2400 BC. “Previously, scholars thought the alphabet was invented in or around Egypt sometime after 1900 BCE,” said Dr Schwartz. “But our artefacts are older and from a different area on the map, suggesting the alphabet may have an entirely different origin story than we thought," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

World's oldest alphabet, dating back to 4,000 years, found on clay cylinders in Syria

The UN special envoy for Syria said on Sunday that it was "extremely critical" to end the fighting in Lebanon and Gaza to avoid the country being pulled into a regional war.

The UN special envoy for Syria said on Sunday that it was "extremely critical" to end the fighting in Lebanon and Gaza to avoid the country being pulled into a regional war. "We need now to make sure that we have immediately a ceasefire in Gaza, that we have a ceasefire in Lebanon, and that we avoid Syria being dragged even further into the conflict," said Geir Pedersen ahead of a meeting with the Syrian foreign minister in Damascus. "We agree that it is extremely critical that we de-escalate so that Syria is not further dragged into this," he said. Also read: 'Shooting near Israeli embassy in Jordan was terror attack targeting forces' Since Syria's civil war erupted in 2011, Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes in the country, mainly targeting the army and Iran-backed groups. The Israeli military has intensified its strikes on targets in Syria since its conflict with Iran-backed Hezbollah in neighbouring Lebanon escalated into full-scale war in late September after almost a year of cross-border hostilities. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said Israeli strikes on the city of Palmyra earlier in the week killed 105 people, the vast majority of them pro-Iran fighters, in the deadliest such attack on Tehran-backed groups to date. Also read: US SEC summons Gautam Adani, nephew Sagar Adani in $265 million bribery case Israel rarely comments on individual strikes in Syria but has repeatedly said it will not allow Iran to expand its presence in the country. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UN says ‘critical’ ceasefire needed to stop Syria from entering war zone

Israel carried out airstrikes in Syria on Thursday (Nov 14), targeting several buildings and command centres belonging to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant group, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said.&nbsp;

The military said that the strikes are a "significant blow" to the Gaza Strip-based Palestinian group and its operatives.

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מוקדם יותר היום, מטוסי קרב של חיל האוויר, בהכוונת פיקוד הצפון תקפו מספר מבנים צבאיים ומפקדות של ארגון הטרור הג׳יהאד האיסלאמי בסוריה&gt;&gt; <a href="https://t.co/8XjXqleY2C">pic.twitter.com/8XjXqleY2C</a>
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Syria's Defence Ministry said that the strikes killed 15 people in the upscale Mazzeh district of Damascus and on the outskirts of the capital.&nbsp;

“The Israeli enemy launched an air aggression from the direction of the occupied Syrian Golan [Heights], targeting residential buildings in the Mazzeh neighborhood of Damascus and the Qudsaya area in the Damascus countryside, killing 15 people and injuring 16 others,” the ministry said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-strikes-iranian-backed-groups-in-syria-in-response-to-attacks-on-american-troops-775418">Also read:&nbsp;US strikes Iranian-backed groups in Syria in response to attacks on American troops</a>

Israeli warplanes have been silently launching attacks in Syria for years now to prevent Iranian proxies like Lebanon-based group Hezbollah and Palestinian Islamic Jihad, who are operating from there.&nbsp;

“We are conducting deep strikes and striking frequently in Syria and along the Syria-Lebanon border to prevent weapons transfers to Hezbollah,” Herzi Halevi, the Israeli military chief of staff, said on Tuesday.

<h2>Lebanese response to ceasefire could arrive in a day</h2>

Lebanon could respond to the ceasefire proposal sent to Beirut from the US in the next 24 hours, Channel 12 reported.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Israel’s hidden war: Iranian facility attacked in Syria

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Earlier this week, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer was in the US to meet with President Joe Biden's administration officials on the final touches to the proposal.&nbsp;
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Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel carried out airstrikes in Syria on Thursday (Nov 14), targeting several buildings and command centres belonging to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant group, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said.

Israel carried out airstrikes in Syria on Thursday (Nov 14), targeting several buildings and command centres belonging to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant group, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said. The military said that the strikes are a "significant blow" to the Gaza Strip-based Palestinian group and its operatives. מוקדם יותר היום, מטוסי קרב של חיל האוויר, בהכוונת פיקוד הצפון תקפו מספר מבנים צבאיים ומפקדות של ארגון הטרור הג׳יהאד האיסלאמי בסוריה>> pic.twitter.com/8XjXqleY2C — צבא ההגנה לישראל (@idfonline) November 14, 2024 × Syria's Defence Ministry said that the strikes killed 15 people in the upscale Mazzeh district of Damascus and on the outskirts of the capital. “The Israeli enemy launched an air aggression from the direction of the occupied Syrian Golan [Heights], targeting residential buildings in the Mazzeh neighborhood of Damascus and the Qudsaya area in the Damascus countryside, killing 15 people and injuring 16 others,” the ministry said. Also read: US strikes Iranian-backed groups in Syria in response to attacks on American troops Israeli warplanes have been silently launching attacks in Syria for years now to prevent Iranian proxies like Lebanon-based group Hezbollah and Palestinian Islamic Jihad, who are operating from there. “We are conducting deep strikes and striking frequently in Syria and along the Syria-Lebanon border to prevent weapons transfers to Hezbollah,” Herzi Halevi, the Israeli military chief of staff, said on Tuesday. Lebanese response to ceasefire could arrive in a day Lebanon could respond to the ceasefire proposal sent to Beirut from the US in the next 24 hours, Channel 12 reported. Watch | Israel’s hidden war: Iranian facility attacked in Syria × Earlier this week, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer was in the US to meet with President Joe Biden's administration officials on the final touches to the proposal. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel launches attacks on Syria's Damascus, at least 15 killed

American forces carried out strikes Monday against nine targets associated with Iranian-backed groups in Syria in response to attacks on Washington's troops in that country, the US military said.

“These strikes will degrade the Iranian-backed groups' ability to plan and launch future attacks on US and coalition forces,” the US Central Command (CENTCOM)said on social media, referring to the international coalition against the Islamic State (IS) jihadist group.

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— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/1856088134028558467?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-israeli-defence-minister-warns-iran-nuclear-sites-more-exposed-than-ever-to-strikes-775380">Middle East crisis: Israeli defence minister warns Iran nuclear sites 'more exposed than ever' to strikes</a>

CENTCOM did not say which groups were targeted or whether they were thought to have resulted in casualties.

But the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a monitoring group, said the strikes killed four members of groups loyal to Iran.

The US military has around 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in Iraq as part of the anti-IS coalition that was established in 2014 to help combat the jihadists.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-crown-prince-mohammed-bin-salman-condemns-israels-occupation-in-gaza-calls-it-genocide-775375">Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman condemns Israel's occupation in Gaza, calls it 'genocide'</a>

Since war broke out in the Gaza Strip after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, pro-Iran groups have repeatedly targeted US forces in Iraq and Syria in response to Washington's support for Israel.

The United States has repeatedly responded to such attacks with strikes on Iran-backed groups.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

American forces carried out strikes Monday against nine targets associated with Iranian-backed groups in Syria in response to attacks on Washington's troops in that country, the US military said.

American forces carried out strikes Monday against nine targets associated with Iranian-backed groups in Syria in response to attacks on Washington's troops in that country, the US military said. “These strikes will degrade the Iranian-backed groups' ability to plan and launch future attacks on US and coalition forces,” the US Central Command (CENTCOM)said on social media, referring to the international coalition against the Islamic State (IS) jihadist group. pic.twitter.com/Hnw4dW6LEe — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) November 11, 2024 × Also read | Middle East crisis: Israeli defence minister warns Iran nuclear sites 'more exposed than ever' to strikes CENTCOM did not say which groups were targeted or whether they were thought to have resulted in casualties. But the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a monitoring group, said the strikes killed four members of groups loyal to Iran. The US military has around 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in Iraq as part of the anti-IS coalition that was established in 2014 to help combat the jihadists. Also read | Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman condemns Israel's occupation in Gaza, calls it 'genocide' Since war broke out in the Gaza Strip after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, pro-Iran groups have repeatedly targeted US forces in Iraq and Syria in response to Washington's support for Israel. The United States has repeatedly responded to such attacks with strikes on Iran-backed groups. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US strikes Iranian-backed groups in Syria in response to attacks on American troops

Israel's military announced on Sunday (Nov 3) that it has detained a Syrian national allegedly acting as an operative for Iranian intelligence, during an operation that reportedly took place earlier this year.&nbsp;

This is the first time in the current war that Israel has announced sending troops into&nbsp;Syria.

<h2>"Iranian terror network operative"</h2>

The military said that the man identified as Ali Soleiman al-Assi was an "Iranian terror network operative", and had been collecting information on Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) movements near the Israeli-Syrian border. This, Israel claims, was tied to an Iranian network orchestrating operations within southern Syria.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-fart-spray-columbia-university-pays-400000-settlement-to-jewish-student-heres-why-772903">Israel-Hamas war: 'Fart spray' ? Columbia University pays $400,000 settlement to Jewish student. Here's why</a>

Al-Assi's capture, Israel says, pre-empted potential attacks.

"The operation by Israel Defense Forces troops to detain al-Assi prevented a future attack and led to the exposure of the operational methods of Iranian terror networks located near the Golan Heights," said the Israeli military in a statement.

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During an intelligence-based, special IDF operation, IDF soldiers detained an Iranian terror network operative in Syria named Ali Soleiman al-Assi. 
 
Al-Assi, a Syrian citizen who lives in the area of Saida in southern Syria, was under IDF surveillance and was found to be a… <a href="https://t.co/Q2yAGIliiC">pic.twitter.com/Q2yAGIliiC</a>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1853121189851598888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>When did the arrest happen?</h2>

Al-Assi, reportedly from Saida in southern Syria, is now being held in Israel for interrogation.&nbsp;

Israeli authorities have shared few specific details regarding the exact timeline of al-Assi's detention, but said, "His activities included gathering intelligence on IDF (Israeli military) troops in the border area for future terror activity of the network."

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based watchdog, had reported in July about an incident in which Israeli forces seized a Syrian man near the village of Al-Razatiya, close to the Golan Heights. The Observatory stated that the man, who worked as a driver, was reportedly taken by Israeli forces who crossed the border to detain him, then transported to Israel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-captures-senior-hezbollah-operative-in-north-lebanon-772872">West Asia crisis: Israel captures senior Hezbollah operative in North Lebanon</a>

"An Israeli military force of three cars and an armoured vehicle crossed the border, entered the village and took the man to the occupied Golan Heights," the war monitor said.

Israel has recently been in an escalated, full-scale war with Iran-backed Hezbollah. This comes after Hezbollah intensified its cross-border actions that it claims are in support of Hamas. Hezbollah launched an extensive series of attacks from Lebanon into northern Israel last year, with activity increasing after Hamas'&nbsp;major assault on Israel on October 7, 2023.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's military announced on Sunday (Nov 3) that it has detained a Syrian national allegedly acting as an operative for Iranian intelligence, during an operation that reportedly took place earlier this year.

Israel's military announced on Sunday (Nov 3) that it has detained a Syrian national allegedly acting as an operative for Iranian intelligence, during an operation that reportedly took place earlier this year. This is the first time in the current war that Israel has announced sending troops into Syria. "Iranian terror network operative" The military said that the man identified as Ali Soleiman al-Assi was an "Iranian terror network operative", and had been collecting information on Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) movements near the Israeli-Syrian border. This, Israel claims, was tied to an Iranian network orchestrating operations within southern Syria. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: 'Fart spray' ? Columbia University pays $400,000 settlement to Jewish student. Here's why Al-Assi's capture, Israel says, pre-empted potential attacks. "The operation by Israel Defense Forces troops to detain al-Assi prevented a future attack and led to the exposure of the operational methods of Iranian terror networks located near the Golan Heights," said the Israeli military in a statement. During an intelligence-based, special IDF operation, IDF soldiers detained an Iranian terror network operative in Syria named Ali Soleiman al-Assi. Al-Assi, a Syrian citizen who lives in the area of Saida in southern Syria, was under IDF surveillance and was found to be a… pic.twitter.com/Q2yAGIliiC — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) November 3, 2024 × When did the arrest happen? Al-Assi, reportedly from Saida in southern Syria, is now being held in Israel for interrogation. Israeli authorities have shared few specific details regarding the exact timeline of al-Assi's detention, but said, "His activities included gathering intelligence on IDF (Israeli military) troops in the border area for future terror activity of the network." The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based watchdog, had reported in July about an incident in which Israeli forces seized a Syrian man near the village of Al-Razatiya, close to the Golan Heights. The Observatory stated that the man, who worked as a driver, was reportedly taken by Israeli forces who crossed the border to detain him, then transported to Israel. Also read | West Asia crisis: Israel captures senior Hezbollah operative in North Lebanon "An Israeli military force of three cars and an armoured vehicle crossed the border, entered the village and took the man to the occupied Golan Heights," the war monitor said. Israel has recently been in an escalated, full-scale war with Iran-backed Hezbollah. This comes after Hezbollah intensified its cross-border actions that it claims are in support of Hamas. Hezbollah launched an extensive series of attacks from Lebanon into northern Israel last year, with activity increasing after Hamas' major assault on Israel on October 7, 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel sends troops into Syria, detains alleged 'Iranian terror network operative'

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