Syrian rebel forces lead renewed offensive against Assad's regime in southwest Syria

Syrian rebel forces, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have played a crucial role in ousting President Bashar al-Assad. HTS, which emerged from al-Qaeda's affiliate in Syria, has become the dominant group in the northwest, particularly in Idlib province. Other rebel factions, like the Free Syrian Army and the Islamic Front, have also influenced the conflict at various times. Recently, these groups, alongside HTS, launched a renewed offensive in southwestern Syria, reclaiming territory from Assad's regime. The Syrian National Army, backed by Turkey, has joined the fight against government forces and Kurdish-led groups. Meanwhile, the Syrian Democratic Forces, a coalition of Kurdish and Arab militias, continue to control significant areas in northeast Syria, engaging in clashes with the SNA.