Syrian government forces collapse in Aleppo as militants launch major offensive

The Syrian militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) launched a major offensive on November 27, targeting Aleppo. Within 12 days, government forces collapsed, leading to the fall of President Bashar al-Assad's regime, which had previously regained control over much of Syria. The HTS quickly advanced through Aleppo, facing little resistance. As they captured Hama and Homs, Assad's troops abandoned their posts, and some fled to Iraq. External support from Russia and Iran was limited, leaving Assad without significant help. With the regime's fall, various rebel groups now compete for power in Syria. HTS aims to establish influence, while local militias and Kurdish forces also seek to expand their control. The situation has created a power vacuum, complicating the future of the country.