Syrian Civil War: December 2024 Overview
Intense Clashes in Aleppo, Idlib, and Hama
Syria has been gripped by a sharp escalation in violence, with rebel forces and government troops clashing across key cities including Aleppo, Idlib, and Hama. Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), one of the most prominent rebel groups, launched surprise offensives that have upended frontlines that had been relatively stable since a 2020 ceasefire. In a major development, HTS and allied insurgents claimed control of large parts of Aleppo and advanced into Hama province, while also targeting surrounding strategic areas.
The government responded with heavy airstrikes, backed by Russian forces, aimed at reclaiming lost ground. A December 1 airstrike in Idlib killed 22 civilians, including women and children, according to local reports. Meanwhile, Syrian state television claimed that government forces had killed hundreds of insurgents, though these figures remain unverified.
Civilian Impact and Worsening Conditions
The violence has taken a devastating toll on civilians, with attacks on markets, schools, and healthcare facilities exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. At Aleppo University, dormitory strikes displaced hundreds of students, adding to the growing number of internally displaced people. In Idlib, civilian casualties mounted as strikes targeted densely populated areas, forcing thousands to flee.
Humanitarian organizations, including the UN, have raised alarm over the crisis, with over 16.7 million Syrians dependent on aid. Road closures and active fighting have severely constrained relief efforts. UN officials have condemned attacks on civilian infrastructure, citing violations of international humanitarian law, and have called for better protection of civilians.
Regional and Global Stakes
The conflict in Syria remains a proxy battleground for international powers. Russia, a critical ally of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, has continued its air campaign in support of government forces, focusing on retaking rebel-held areas in Idlib and Hama. Tehran has also maintained its backing of Assad through financial aid, military advisors, and proxy militias, underscoring Iran’s strategic interest in countering regional rivals like Saudi Arabia and Israel.
Conversely, the United States has limited its involvement in this latest escalation, focusing its efforts on combating ISIS and maintaining alliances with Kurdish-led forces in northeastern Syria. However, Washington has condemned the recent violence and reiterated calls for a political resolution to the conflict.
Rising Tensions with Israel
The ongoing conflict has heightened Israel’s concerns about Iran’s influence in Syria, particularly through Hezbollah and other proxy groups. In recent weeks, Israel has reportedly intensified airstrikes targeting Iranian-linked sites, aiming to disrupt arms transfers and military entrenchment near its borders. These developments risk sparking broader confrontations in an already volatile region.
A Looming Humanitarian Catastrophe
As fighting continues, the humanitarian crisis shows no signs of abating. Aid agencies have struggled to deliver essential supplies, and displacement figures are rising sharply. Despite repeated calls for a ceasefire, violence persists, complicating efforts to provide relief to affected populations. The escalating conflict highlights the urgent need for renewed diplomatic engagement and concrete measures to address the crisis.
