Syrian Opposition Forces Seize Control of Aleppo and Idlib Provinces Amid Intense Battles

In a significant turn of events, Syrian opposition factions have seized full control of Aleppo and Idlib, two key northern provinces, after intense clashes with Syrian regime forces and Iranian-backed militias. The strategic regions are now under aerial bombardment from Syrian regime warplanes and sporadic Russian airstrikes, further escalating tensions in the ongoing Syrian civil war.

The opposition’s Military Operations Directorate announced that, alongside Aleppo and Idlib, parts of Hama province have also been captured. Regime forces, including Iranian fighters, have reportedly suffered heavy casualties, with hundreds either killed or captured in recent operations. The opposition also took control of major military airports, including Aleppo International Airport and five others: Menagh, Taftanaz, Abu al-Duhur, Al-Nayrab, and Kuweires.

Exclusive photos and videos obtained by The Media Line reveal Iranian flags in military bases across the southern Idlib countryside and Aleppo, alongside military infrastructure such as trenches and tunnels used by Iranian-backed militias. The opposition’s victory in Aleppo has left the city free of regime and Iranian militia presence, with towns like Saraqib, Kafr Nabl, Maarat al-Numan, and Khan Shaykhun falling under opposition control.

In a separate development, the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army launched an offensive against Kurdish forces in Aleppo’s countryside, successfully capturing the strategic city of Tel Rifaat.

Aleppo’s Christian Community and Impact of the Conflict

The fate of Aleppo's Christian community, which has greatly diminished since the onset of the war in 2011, remains a source of international concern. Today, about 20,000 Christians remain in Aleppo. Despite the ongoing conflict, local Christian leaders report that opposition factions, such as Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, have allowed them to practice their faith freely. The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Aleppo confirmed that church services, including a Sunday mass, were held to pray for peace in Syria.

While opposition forces have assured Christians of their safety, the city continues to face significant threats. On Sunday, a Russian airstrike targeted the Franciscan Holy Land School in Aleppo, causing extensive damage. Italy’s Foreign Ministry condemned the attack, calling for respect for religious sites.

Improvements in Daily Life Amidst Conflict

Since opposition forces took control, there have been notable improvements in daily life for Aleppo residents. Bread and fuel supplies are being transported from Idlib, and local organizations have been working to ensure their distribution. The Syrian Civil Defense teams, also known as the White Helmets, have been deployed to Aleppo, while opposition forces are protecting essential services like banks and government institutions.

Residents have reported a sense of security under the new authorities, with opposition forces assuring them of safety as long as they adhere to the new regulations. Despite this, the Syrian regime continues to target residential areas in Idlib and Aleppo with airstrikes, causing civilian casualties.

The opposition’s military advance has extended into central Syria, with ongoing battles in Hama. A field commander noted that the situation in Hama is much more intense than the opposition’s previous advances in Idlib and Aleppo, as regime forces are putting up a more substantial fight in this province.