damascus. In Syria, activities have intensified due to the rebels’ capture of Aleppo and their increase in Hama province and other areas. Russian and Syrian fighter planes are continuously bombing rebel-held areas. 25 people are reported killed in the latest bombing.
Government army claims to have killed 400 rebels
Government forces claimed to have killed 400 rebels in ground retaliation. Meanwhile, Iran-backed militias have crossed the border from Iraq and entered Syria, where they will support government forces in fighting the rebels. Russian President Vladimir Putin has spoken on the phone with his Iranian counterpart Masoud Pezeshkian on the situation.
Russia’s support for Bashar al-Assad government
Russia has said that its support to the Bashar al-Assad government of Syria continues, and military assistance will be provided to Syria as needed. Iran has also announced to help Syria in every way. Russian and Syrian aircraft have bombed the rebel-held city of Idlib. 10 children were also among those killed in the air strikes.
Nearly 4 million people are living in makeshift shelters amid poverty in this rebel-held city near the Turkish border. The government army has claimed that it has pushed back the rebels and liberated some land from them in the ground fighting. Whereas the people of Aleppo are surprised by the government army leaving the city like this. Many people are leaving the city while others feel that they have been left destitute.
Other countries including US appealed to reduce tension
America, France, Germany and Britain have appealed to all parties to reduce tensions in Syria and ensure the safety of civilians. Jordan and Iraq have announced their support for Syria fighting the rebels. While UAE President Sheikh Muhammad bin Zayed Al-Nahyan has talked to Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman, who came to Abu Dhabi, on Syria and other issues of the region.
After the rebels captured Aleppo in a few days, Russia has removed General Sergei Kissel, in charge of the Russian army in Syria.