Attachments
CRISIS IMPACT OVERVIEW
• On 27 November 2024, the opposition group Hayat Tahrir Al Sham (HTS), which controls Idleb governorate in northwest Syria (NWS), launched the ‘Deterrence of Aggression’ operation against Government of Syria (GoS) forces in Aleppo (AJ 30/11/2024). In coordination with the Salvation National Army (SNA) ‘Dawn of Freedom’ operation, the two major opposition groups have seized control of at least 237 cities, towns, villages, and military bases from the GoS. Within six days, the opposition had significantly expanded its territorial control, taking full control of Idleb governorate, large parts of Aleppo governorate, and areas of northern Hama governorate (CA–SYR 03/12/2024).
• On 3 December, opposition forces advanced towards Hama city, situated strategically in central Syria north of the capital Damascus, encircling on all fronts except to the south. Violent clashes have been taking place between opposition fighters and GoS forces on the outskirts of the city (Reuters 04/12/2024).
• Since the opposition offensive, GoS and Russian airstrikes have targeted opposition-held areas in Idleb and Aleppo, raising the death toll to 56, including 20 children, by 2 December.
• It is estimated that hundreds of civilians have been killed or injured since the beginning of the escalation, although the exact number is yet to be confirmed.
• Escalating violence has displaced up to 178,000 people, severely affecting shelter, food security, healthcare, and access to education (UN News 04/12/2024). In Aleppo, many families are sheltering in overcrowded camps, with limited resources and restricted humanitarian access worsening conditions. Food scarcity is a growing concern, with bakeries and markets struggling to operate as a result of nightly curfews imposed by HTS and supply chain disruptions. Healthcare facilities are under immense strain, with many hospitals closed or only offering emergency services. Public health concerns include the risk of waterborne diseases resulting from poor sanitation. Lack of security and funding limitations are challenging efforts to restore clean water in Aleppo. Protection services, including support for gender-based violence (GBV) victims and child protection, are severely limited as a result of funding gaps and facility closures. Education has also been disrupted, with schools and universities in Idleb and Aleppo suspended amid continuing hostilities, leaving children’s access to learning increasingly jeopardised.