Syria's rebels have captured Aleppo in a stunning advance, reigniting the country's civil war. The rebels have made gains in Idlib, Aleppo, and Hama provinces, posing a serious threat to President Bashar Al-Assad and his backers. The conflict involves a complex web of factions and patrons with potential regional repercussions.
Key Points
Rebels have captured Aleppo and made gains in Idlib and Hama provinces
The conflict involves various factions, including jihadist groups and militias supported by different countries
Potential for Assad to face serious challenges to his rule and alliances
Pros
Rebels have made significant gains in northwestern Syria, capturing Aleppo and other strategic areas
Potential for Assad to be forced into concessions in exchange for survival
Possibility of weakening Iran and Russia's influence in the region
Cons
Increased violence and casualties, with over 600 people killed in recent fighting
Risk of further destabilization and regional repercussions beyond Syria
Complex web of fighters and patrons, making the situation unpredictable