BBC News - Thousands flee fighting in Syria as rebel forces advance on another key city | BBC News
The Syrian civil war, which began in 2011, is witnessing a significant shift as rebel forces, including those with links to Al-Qaeda, have made a surprising comeback. After being forced into retreat five years ago, these rebels have swiftly captured Syria's second-largest city, Aleppo, and are now advancing towards Homs. This rapid progression has been facilitated by the Syrian Army's weakened state, exacerbated by the absence of support from Assad's traditional allies, Russia and Iran, who are currently engaged in other conflicts. The rebels, led by the group HTS, are attempting to rebrand themselves as a nationalist force, aiming to topple Assad's regime and encourage Syrian refugees to return home. The situation is further complicated by Kurdish forces taking control of the eastern desert and local insurgencies in the south, indicating a potential turning point in the conflict that could threaten Assad's hold on power.
Key Points:
- Rebel forces have rapidly captured Aleppo and are advancing towards Homs, threatening Assad's regime.
- The Syrian Army is struggling due to a lack of support from Russia and Iran, who are preoccupied with other conflicts.
- Rebels, including HTS with roots in Al-Qaeda, are rebranding as a nationalist force to gain broader support.
- Kurdish forces and local insurgencies are also gaining ground, further destabilizing Assad's control.
- The situation suggests a potential turning point in the Syrian civil war, possibly signaling the beginning of the end for Assad's regime.