Syrian rebels launch rapid offensive, seizing Aleppo from President Bashar al-Assad's regime; Syrian and Russian fighter jets retaliate with airstrikes; concerns about impact on American troops and remnants of Islamic State; experts analyze the conflict and potential outcomes.
Key Points
Syrian rebels led by militant group HTS seize Aleppo
Russian and Syrian fighter jets bomb rebel-held areas
Concerns about impact on American troops and potential ISIS resurgence
Experts analyze the conflict and potential outcomes
Pros
Opportunity to topple Assad regime
Potential weakening of Assad's grip on power due to distractions and depletion of Russia, Iran, and Lebanon
Cons
High civilian and military casualties in the conflict
ISIS threat may increase if Syrian regime resources are diverted to fighting rebels