Syrian and Russian Warplanes Target AQ in Idlib Following Israeli Attacks on Damascus
Intense Airstrikes on HTS Positions
On Wednesday, Syrian and Russian fighter jets carried out multiple air raids on positions belonging to the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) terrorist group, previously known as Al-Qaeda’s Nusra Front. The airstrikes targeted HTS locations in the countryside of the northern Idlib governorate and the countryside of the northwestern city of Latakia for the second consecutive day, according to Al Mayadeen’s correspondent. The correspondent also reported that the raids targeted military training sites, warehouses, and an underground tunnel near the town of Benin in Jabal al-Zawiya.
Increased Bombardment of HTS Positions
In recent days, Russian and Syrian jets have intensified their bombardment of HTS positions in the Idlib and Latakia countryside. The extremist group’s encampments in the Al-Basel Forest west of Idlib city and the hills surrounding the towns of Sheikh Bahr and Kafr Jales were targeted on Monday. Al Mayadeen's sources revealed that the strikes two days ago hit an underground machinery warehouse in Idlib city.
Military Reinforcements and Intensified Bombing Campaign
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), an opposition-linked war monitor, reported that Syrian army forces have brought in additional military reinforcements to Idlib from the suburbs of Aleppo and its western countryside. Syria escalated its bombing campaign against Idlib in October last year, following a drone attack carried out by extremists under HTS command, which targeted a Syrian military college, resulting in numerous casualties. Reports suggest that anti-government extremist militants in northern Syria have expanded their drone arsenal and expertise in drone warfare through recent cooperation with Ukraine.
Control of Idlib and Israeli Attacks
Idlib is the last governorate of Syria under full control of extremist armed opposition groups. Damascus’ forces made their first advancement towards Idlib in 2019 when they captured the town of Habeet in the Idlib countryside. The latest strikes on Idlib occur as Syria has endured repeated Israeli attacks. Damascus has, over the years, accused HTS and other extremist groups in the country of close cooperation with Tel Aviv.
Escalation in Northeastern Syria
Northeastern Syria has also seen a significant escalation in recent months, particularly after heavy fighting broke out in August between pro-government Arab tribes and Washington-backed Kurdish militants of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) near US-occupied parts of the country. Although the fighting has ended, tensions remain high. Tribal figures and academics in Syria’s northeast have attempted to bridge the divides between Damascus and several Kurdish organizations with a new national dialogue initiative. Syrian officials held talks with SDF officials and US-backed Kurdish authorities last year, but the negotiations never progressed.
Bottom Line
The situation in Syria remains volatile with intensified airstrikes, drone attacks, and escalating tensions. The recent airstrikes by Syrian and Russian warplanes on HTS positions highlight the ongoing struggle for control in the region. What are your thoughts on these recent developments? Do you think the situation will stabilize soon? Share this article with your friends and discuss these pressing issues. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.
