The Assad regime and its Iranian patrons are suffering heavy losses under the onslaught of Sunni rebels in Syria. A large-scale offensive launched by the rebels on Wednesday resulted in the destruction of hundreds of Syrian soldiers and militants from pro-Iranian military factions. However, the rebels themselves have also sustained significant casualties.
Rapid Rebel Advancement
The rebels' progress has been swift and dramatic. They are already claiming full control over Aleppo, Syria’s largest city, and are rapidly advancing toward Hama. A map of Syria illustrates the rebels' route, showing their swift southward push from the northern part of the country, culminating in the capture of Aleppo — a strategic hub often regarded as Syria’s "second capital" due to its military and economic significance. The loss of Aleppo undeniably represents a critical blow to the Assad regime.
Meanwhile, the rebels continue their southern advance, now engaging in battles for Hama. They have seized several villages and settlements near Hama, and reports suggest that the Syrian army has already retreated from the city. Video evidence confirms the presence of rebels in Hama, underscoring the dire situation for the Syrian regime and its Iranian allies.
The Strategic Importance of Aleppo
Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city, was historically the country's economic centre and a critical trade hub. While the city’s economy has suffered greatly during the civil war, it remained a vital strategic and symbolic stronghold for the Assad regime. The loss of Aleppo has been a devastating shock for Alawites and other Assad supporters. Syria has now closed all its ports, and Iraq has blocked border crossings with Syria.
Although the Syrian regime officially denies the complete fall of the city, admitting only the loss of "significant portions," evidence from the front lines suggests otherwise. Most of Aleppo is now under rebel control. They have freed numerous prisoners from the city’s main prison, seized the headquarters of pro-Iranian military factions, attacked the Iranian consulate, and taken control of Aleppo’s international airport and the Kuwaires military airbase.
The rebels have also captured the Aleppo governor’s residence, underscoring the scale of the Syrian army’s defeat and the collapse of the Iranian-backed Assad regime.
Implications for Israel
The fall of the Syrian regime is undoubtedly advantageous for Israel. For years, Syria was considered the "golden link" in Iran's strategic alliance against Israel. Syria’s threats along Israel’s border, its strategic support for Hezbollah, and its role as a primary conduit for Iranian weapons transfers to Hezbollah made it a key element of Iran’s regional influence. Thus, the regime’s defeat in Syria is a major blow to Iran’s interests and a clear benefit for Israel.
The timing of the rebels' offensive is also strategic. They waited until Hezbollah, which has suffered heavy losses (estimated by the IDF to include 3,500 killed and 7,000 wounded), could no longer provide substantial support to the Syrian regime, limiting its involvement to symbolic gestures.
However, it is worth noting that the rebels, many of whom are radical Islamists (effectively variations of ISIS), are also suffering significant losses — a fact that is undoubtedly positive news for Israel.
A Sign of Redemption
According to the Lubavitcher Rebbe, King Moshiach, this internal conflict among Israel’s adversaries is a sign of the impending Redemption. It mirrors events before the Exodus from Egypt, when the Egyptian firstborn waged war against Pharaoh’s army, leading to the death of 600,000 Egyptians and paving the way for the Israelites’ liberation.
The Current Syrian Conflict
The main factions in the conflict can now be summarised as follows:
1) Sunni forces (including Al-Qaeda, ISIS, and rebel groups backed by Turkey) are fighting against Shiite forces (pro-Iranian militias, Hezbollah, and Iran).
2) Turkey, supporting the rebels, is opposing Syria, Iran, and Russia, which back the Assad regime.
Conclusion
The defeat of the Syrian regime benefits the people of Israel, leaving no reason for concern. On the contrary, it is a cause for rejoicing and gratitude to the Almighty. The fall of the Assad regime is simultaneously a blow to Iran and Hezbollah, making it a clear indication of the nearing Redemption.