Rebel Offensive in Syria Challenges Assad and Strains Russian Military Focus

A surprise rebel advance in Syria's northwest raises questions about Russia's ability to balance its commitments in the region and the war in Ukraine.

Rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham have launched a major offensive in Syria, seizing Aleppo and advancing toward Hama, marking the most significant escalation in years.
Russia, a key ally of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, has responded with airstrikes but faces challenges balancing its military focus between Syria and Ukraine.
The conflict threatens Russia's strategic interests in Syria, including its naval base in Tartus, with reports suggesting a possible evacuation of Russian warships from the area.
Iran, another Assad ally, sees the conflict as critical to maintaining its regional proxy network, including support for Hezbollah, but faces setbacks from Israeli strikes in Lebanon and Gaza.
Experts suggest the Syrian conflict's impact on Russia's war in Ukraine will likely be limited, though any perceived weakening of Moscow's position could have political ramifications.