Iranian-backed Iraqi militias have entered Syria to support government forces following an insurgent takeover of Aleppo by terrorist group HTS. Approximately 200 militiamen crossed into Syria to reinforce the Syrian military’s counteroffensive against insurgent advances, amidst escalated airstrikes causing civilian casualties. Despite declared insurgent intentions to reach Damascus, the capital remained calm, though fears of regional instability mount amid the ongoing conflict.
Iranian-backed Iraqi militia forces have entered Syria to assist the Syrian government in its counteroffensive efforts following the sudden capture of Aleppo, which is Syria’s second largest city, by insurgents. The arrival of these forces is reported to strengthen the Syrian military amidst its ongoing battles to reclaim lost territories. Insurgents, led primarily by the extremist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), initiated a two-front offensive targeting Aleppo last week, ultimately expanding their operations into the neighboring Idlib and Hama provinces.
The current situation in Syria is characterized by a complex web of alliances and conflicts, particularly with the involvement of Iranian-backed Iraqi militias. The deterioration in Aleppo is not merely a localized event, but part of a broader struggle involving various factions battling for influence in the region. The resurgence of HTS and their advances have prompted the Assad regime and its allies’ urgent military responses, indicating the volatile dynamics at play in the Syrian civil war, which has persisted since 2011.
The Iranian-backed Iraqi militias’ deployment to Syria marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, as they seek to reinforce the Syrian military against the insurgent threat. Although the conditions within Damascus remain relatively stable, the unrest in Aleppo signifies a pressing challenge for the Assad regime and its supporters. The situation continues to pose risks for broader regional stability, potentially involving other powers such as Russia and Turkey in heightened confrontations.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
