The Syrian rebels, primarily led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and the Syrian National Army, launched a significant offensive on November 27, capturing key cities like Aleppo and Hama. HTS has evolved from its past ties to al-Qaida and Islamic State to become the dominant force in the region, despite being labeled a terrorist organization by the US. The group’s actions raise serious human rights concerns, while its relationship with Turkish-backed militias presents a complicated dynamic within the conflict.
The Syrian rebels currently making significant advances in the country’s conflict are predominantly led by the Islamist coalition Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA). Initiating a critical offensive on November 27, they successfully captured major urban centers such as Aleppo and Hama. HTS, originally known as Jabhat al-Nusra, evolved from its past affiliations with al-Qaida and Islamic State, establishing itself as the leading rebel faction in Syria.
Despite its power, HTS is designated a terrorist organization by the United States, facing accusations of human rights violations, including severe punishments for perceived dissenters. Meanwhile, the Turkish-backed militias aim to create a buffer zone against Kurdish forces, reflecting Turkey’s complex involvement in the region’s ongoing struggles. While allied at times, HTS and SNA often find their objectives diverging as they navigate the intricate dynamics of the Syrian conflict.
The Syrian civil war, which has been raging since 2011, has led to the emergence of numerous rebel factions. Among the most significant are HTS and various Turkish-backed groups, which have contended for power and territory across the country. HTS, once part of a group that opposed the US in Iraq, has evolved considerably over the years, changing its affiliations and strategies in response to the shifting landscape of the conflict. Turkey’s role as a supporter of these rebel factions has also complicated the situation, as it seeks to curb Kurdish influence near its borders.
In summary, the Syrian rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and the Syrian National Army have intensified their military actions, marking a pivotal moment in the Syrian conflict. HTS’s controversial history and designation as a terrorist group underscore the complexities of the power dynamics at play. The divergent interests of these groups, coupled with external influences like Turkey, continue to shape the future of Syria’s civil war.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
