Tag Archives: Syria

Fighting intensified in Aleppo as both the rebels and the government massed their forces around the city. A senior defector from the Assad regime offered to unite opposition factions and provide a road map for the transfer of power. Iran said it would stand by its ally.

Rebel forces in Aleppo prepared for the coming battle as government forces sent armored reinforcements to the city. Rebel forces took control of a police station in central Aleppo. Turkey closed its borders with Syria to commercial traffic.

Syria admitted it had chemical weapons, and said it would not use them on its own people but would use them to repel an external threat. Israel’s Prime Minister said Israel would “have to act” if chemical weapons were acquired by Hezbollah. Government forces retook control of Damascus as rebel forces reverted to guerrilla tactics.

Rebels announced the launch of an offensive to “liberate” the city of Aleppo. Rebel fighters from rural areas converged on the city. Government counterattacks drove rebel forces out of several strongholds in Damascus. So far this month, 2,750 people have been killed in Syria. The US abandoned efforts for a diplomatic solution.

Government forces staged counterattacks against rebel-held districts of Damascus. Heavy fighting broke out in Aleppo. Rebel forces seized a second of three border crossings between Iraq and Syria. Refugees flooded into Lebanon. The UN Security Council extended its monitor mission for 30 days.