In brief
In the heart of Aleppo, Abdulkafi, an English teacher, reunited with his 85-year-old father after years of separation due to the conflict that has engulfed the region. This poignant moment occurred shortly after the armed rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) launched a significant offensive to gain control over the city from government forces. The emotional reunion was captured on video, revealing the profound joy and sorrow shared between father and son. However, while many rejoice in personal reunifications, a pervasive atmosphere of apprehension looms over Aleppo's residents regarding the implications of HTS's takeover.
Residents have recounted a mix of experiences since the rebel offensive. Some have reported improved conditions, such as access to water and electricity, and a sense of being treated with respect by HTS fighters. Yet, fears of renewed warfare remain acute, as airstrikes from government and allied Russian forces continue to pose a threat. Many locals have expressed distrust of HTS's longer-term intentions, recalling the group's former affiliation with al-Qaeda, despite its claims of moderation. Displacement from the recent fighting, as reported by UN agencies, has added to the city's troubles, with thousands now seeking shelter. The continuous threat of bombing has made daily life precarious. A resident described living in "complete apprehension" and recalled harrowing memories from earlier conflicts as airstrikes resumed.Historically, Aleppo has seen vast shifts throughout the civil war. The city was once the commercial hub of Syria before being recaptured by government forces in 2016, leading to a relative calm in the following years. Despite the government's claims of reconstruction, many NGOs and journalists highlight ongoing human rights violations and authoritarian practices. Personal accounts reveal a complex emotional landscape. While Abdulkafi celebrated the joy of reunion, he acknowledged that some of his relatives feared being associated with him should the regime regain control, fearing retribution and oppression. Residents have expressed a general unease, recognizing the unpredictable nature of their new reality under HTS rule—the fear of being harassed or targeted remains palpable. Minority communities, especially Christians, are voicing their trepidations about the HTS promises of respect and tolerance. Analysts suggest that while the group currently appears to be respecting these communities, past experiences paint a worrying picture of potential shifts in their treatment once established.As this conflict unfolds, many citizens of Aleppo are caught in a tumultuous balance between hope for stability and fear of future violence, leaving them feeling let down and uncertain about their safety and future.
