Syrian armed groups, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and Ankara-backed militias, have taken control of most of Aleppo, the country’s second-largest city, after a swift retreat by Syrian army forces.
The factions announced a 24-hour curfew on Saturday. The Syrian army said in a statement that “dozens of its soldiers were killed” in the attack, forcing its troops to withdraw. It added that preparations are underway for a counteroffensive to regain the city.
Residents told Asharq Al-Awsat they were caught off guard by the fighting, which broke out after four years of relative calm.
Ahmed Abu Bakr, a government employee in Aleppo, described how life was normal in the city until last Wednesday, November 27.
“Suddenly, we heard fighting in some areas. The attacking factions advanced quickly and took control of parts of the city, reaching the center by the next day,” he told Asharq Al-Awsat.
Ahmed expressed concern for Aleppo’s future, fearing it could be divided again, like during the years 2012-2016 when the city was split between government forces and armed factions.
“The city can’t handle more conflict,” he said.
According to Ahmed and others, the HTS and allied groups have seized most neighborhoods, government offices, and prisons. Activists shared images online showing militants freeing hundreds of prisoners.
Raouf, 44, a displaced resident, shared his concern about the situation.
“The militants say there’s no need to fear and that things will improve, but it feels like they’re the ones in charge, with the power to make promises of protection.”
Raouf criticized HTS, calling it a rebranded version of al-Nusra Front, and reminded Syrians of their violent past.
“They executed women, killed activists and journalists, and brought foreign fighters into Syria,” he said.
Maysa, 54, who lives near the governor’s palace in central Aleppo, recalled the first moments militants entered the palace.
“We heard gunfire and chants,” she said.
“When we went outside, we saw Free Syrian Army vehicles near the palace and the Russian consulate. They told everyone over loudspeakers to stay indoors for safety.”
She confirmed that all shops, markets, and pharmacies closed after the attack on Wednesday.
“Only the fighters and their vehicles are here now. Aleppo has turned into a military base,” she added.
Reem, 33, a former private-sector employee in New Aleppo, described the fear among residents.
“Those still here are in shock. We never expected this sudden attack. We were hit by factions led by al-Qaeda fighters,” she said, clearly upset.
“We are living in fear, with our future now in the hands of a few militants,” she affirmed.
