Darwish Khalifa: Control over Aleppo strengthens opposition's negotiating power
Welat TV - Erbil
Political analyst Darwish Khalifa said that Syrian opposition factions managed to take control of western, southern and a large part of northern Aleppo within 72 hours. The areas under their control now include towns and villages such as Anadan, Haretan and Hayyan, bringing Aleppo and its surrounding areas fully under opposition control.
Leverage at the negotiating table
Khalifa emphasized that this significant military advance gives the Syrian revolution and political opposition significant leverage at the negotiating table. These gains could be used to pressure the Syrian regime to comply with international resolutions, particularly Resolutions
An international test
In an interview with Welat TV, Khalifa noted that these developments pose a new challenge to the international community and regional powers. He urged patience for a few days to wait for official reactions, particularly from Turkey and the United States.
While Turkey's foreign minister asserted that Turkey had not intervened in Aleppo, US President Joe Biden expressed surprise at the opposition's advances, reflecting a disparity in international responses.
Sacrifices and strategic gains
Khalifa highlighted the significant sacrifices made by the opposition, noting that nearly 400 fighters had been lost in the battles for Aleppo. The regime's inability to resist was due to significant weaknesses in its ranks and desertions amid the opposition's strategic military planning.
Strategic locations such as the military academy and neighborhoods such as Hamdaniyah and New Aleppo were crucial in facilitating the opposition's entry into Aleppo. Sensitive regime strongholds, including military security and air force intelligence, also fell under opposition control.
Local support drives success
Khalifa attributed the rapid progress in Aleppo to strong local support. Residents expressed their desire to see the city freed from regime control. Some 15 local groups in Aleppo reportedly played a crucial role in supporting the opposition's entry and success.
Aleppo's residents have long suffered under Iranian-backed militias who have imposed demographic and cultural changes. In addition, influential figures such as the Qaterji family have dominated the local economy, further alienating the population.
Aleppo's future and national reconciliation
Khalifa concluded by stressing the need for regional and international consensus to promote national reconciliation among Syria's warring political forces. Changes on the ground require a reassessment of international positions to ensure that the opposition's gains in Aleppo are preserved. According to Khalifa, withdrawal is not an option at this stage, given the sacrifices made to achieve these advances.