A Syrian rebel group led by al-Qaeda’s Nusra Front has shelled government-held districts in the major northern city of Aleppo today, killing at least 34 civilians and wounding an estimated 200 others. The attacks came as the Syrian military advanced on a key road leading to the al-Qaeda-held parts of the city.
The Syrian state media accused the rebels of violating the Eid al-Fitr ceasefire, though it does not appear that this faction ever agreed to any ceasefire. Al-Qaeda and the Syrian military have repeatedly exchanged fire over parts of the city.
Before the Syrian Civil War, Aleppo was the industrial and financial capital of Syria. Rebels and the military both sought the battle over Aleppo would decide the civil war, but it never conclusively ended, instead leading to the destruction of large portions of the city, with several districts falling under the control of different factions.
Nusra’s control over its half of the city is in growing doubt, as the Syrian military advances on the last road leading into that area, effectively cutting off their supply lines. Al-Qaeda clearly isn’t giving up, and will likely push for more counterattacks against the military to reclaim the road.
If Al-Qaida is losing, expect John Kerry to be calling for a cease-fire.
Our rebels?
The “rebels” Russia has been nlamed for attacking. Who is arming them, paying soldiers, providing food, telecom, transport, fuel and intelligence. ISIS shot down Russian helicopter with US weapon. It will be interesting how will this year our politicians “remember 9/11” as they do all they can to protect Al-Qaeda territory in Syria. What hypoctires! Nothing is sacred enough when it comes to protecting neocon goals. Fo that they shod be all fired or forced to resign their seats. There is no accountabity for the new royalty. Laws do not apply to them. If they can support Al-Qaeda in their fight for power against a legitimate state — why cannot an individual who goes to Syria snd joins Al-Qaeda Al-Nusra Front and their associate US/Saudi sponsored Army of Conquest? Why would they be caught and prosecuted as terrorist. It does appear that what is allowed to the exceptional elite — is not allowed to moooo.