| Revision as of 14:38, 18 November 2014 edit180.113.254.71 (talk) →Renewed Army offensive north of the city← Previous edit | Revision as of 21:07, 22 November 2014 edit undo209.191.164.25 (talk) ←Blanked the pageTag: blankingNext edit → | ||
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| {{Very long|date=December 2012}} | |||
| {{Use dmy dates|date=April 2014}} | |||
| :''For the First World War battle, see ].'' | |||
| {{Infobox military conflict | |||
| |conflict = Battle of Aleppo<br />معركة حلب | |||
| |partof = the ] | |||
| |image = ] | |||
| |caption = Situation in Aleppo in September 2014 | |||
| {{leftlegend|#FF5555|Syrian Army control}} | |||
| {{leftlegend|#00FF00|Opposition control}} | |||
| {{leftlegend|#FFFF00|Kurdish control}} | |||
| {{leftlegend|olive|Ongoing confrontation or unclear situation}} | |||
| (For a war map of the area around Aleppo, see ]) | |||
| |date = 19 July 2012 – ''ongoing'' <br />({{Age in years, months, weeks and days|month1=07|day1=19|year1=2012}}) | |||
| |place = ], Syria | |||
| |coordinates = | |||
| |map_type = Syria | |||
| |map_relief = | |||
| |latitude = 36.13 | |||
| |longitude = 37.10 | |||
| |map_size = | |||
| |map_marksize = | |||
| |map_caption = Aleppo within Syria | |||
| |map_label = | |||
| |territory = | |||
| |result = Ongoing | |||
| * FSA captures numerous districts in the southern and northeastern parts of the city in late July 2012, PYD takes control of two districts in the northern part of the city | |||
| * Syrian Army recaptures several districts in August and September 2012 | |||
| * Several opposition offensives repelled by government troops in the autumn of 2012<ref name="russiaurges" /><ref name="clashesshelling" /><ref name="shellsrock" /> | |||
| * ] ] ] largely destroyed in the fighting<ref>{{cite web|last=Peel |first=Michael |url=http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/d99bb5cc-0b0f-11e2-afb8-00144feabdc0.html|title=Historic souk burns in battle for Aleppo |publisher=Ft.com |date=30 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * Limited clashes between the PYD and the FSA in late October and early November 2012<ref name="kurdishmilitiamen" /> | |||
| * Opposition forces capture two Army bases on the western outskirts in early December 2012<ref></ref> | |||
| * In early February 2013, rebels capture the Sheik Said district, cutting off the land supply route between the airport and government forces in the city<ref>{{cite web|url=http://dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Feb-02/204770-syria-rebels-seize-key-aleppo-district-activists.ashx|title=Syria activists: Rebel advance near Aleppo airport |publisher=AFP|date=2 January 2012|accessdate=2 January 2012}}<br />{{cite news|url=http://washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/syrian-rebels-advance-in-countrys-north-capture-strategic-area-near-aleppo-airport/2013/02/02/dacf0f40-6d28-11e2-8f4f-2abd96162ba8_story.html|title=Syrian activists say rebels are advancing near Aleppo airport|agency=Associated Press|date=2 January 2012|accessdate=2 January 2012|deadurl=yes}} {{Dead link|date=April 2014|bot=RjwilmsiBot}}{{Dead link|date=August 2013}}</ref><ref name="Leningrad">{{cite web|url=http://english.ruvr.ru/2013_01_29/Aleppo-like-Leningrad-under-siege-Syrian-Dep-PM/|title=Aleppo like Leningrad under siege – Syrian Dep. PM|publisher=RIA|date=29 January 2012|accessdate=29 January 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * In early March 2013, government forces reestablish a land supply route between central Syria and Aleppo's airport<ref name="uk.reuters.com">{{cite news|last=Evans |first=Dominic |url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/2013/03/01/uk-syria-crisis-idUKBRE92013C20130301 |title=Assad forces take Aleppo village, reopening supply |publisher=Uk.reuters.com |date=1 March 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| * In April 2013, the Syrian Army captured the village of Al-Aziza near the airport<ref name="laydown">{{cite web|url=http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Latest-News-Wires/2013/0407/Syrian-army-launches-counteroffensive-calls-on-rebels-to-lay-down-arms|title=Syrian army launches counteroffensive, calls on rebels to lay down arms|author=Barbara Surk|date=7 April 2013|work=The Christian Science Monitor|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| * In November 2013, the Syrian Army captured Base 80, north of the city airport,<ref> ], 10 November 2013</ref> and by late February 2014, Syrian troops had advanced from the east towards the Industrial district<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/security/2014/03/syria-army-impose-blockade-militants-aleppo.html#|title=Syrian army to impose blockade in Aleppo|publisher=Al-Monitor|accessdate=16 March 2014}}</ref> | |||
| * ] Operation Room unites four main opposition factions in February 2014 and signs truce with the YPG on 25 April<ref name="shamYPGtruce"/> | |||
| * Between late May and early October, government troops break the Aleppo prison siege (after 13 months)<ref name="npr.org"></ref> and capture the Sheik Said industrial zone<ref>{{cite web|url=http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/syrian-opposition-elect-president-24442506|title=Government Troops Advance in Syria's Largest City |publisher= abcnews|date= |accessdate= Jul 7, 2014}}</ref> and the village of Handaraat, effectively putting the city under siege<ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.al-akhbar.com/node/21843|title=Syrian army clashes with rebels in Aleppo, regains full control of Handarat|work=Al Akhbar English|accessdate=25 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| |combatant1 = '''] ]''' | |||
| * ] ] | |||
| * <!-- Commented out: ] --> ] | |||
| * {{flagicon image|Flag of the Hazm Movement.svg}} ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Jul-09/263183-reinforcements-rush-to-aleppo-as-battles-rage.ashx#axzz36N8qKwvx|title=Reinforcements rush to Aleppo as battles rage|publisher=The Daily Star|accessdate=9 July 2014|date=9 July 2014}}</ref> | |||
| * {{flagicon image|Harakat Nour al-Din al-Zenki Logo.jpg}} ] | |||
| '''] ]'''<ref name="Al-Sham"/> | |||
| * {{flagicon image|Flag of the Islamic Front (Syria).svg}} ] | |||
| * {{flagicon image|Flag of the Al-Nusra Front.svg}} ] | |||
| * {{flagicon image|Army of Mujahedeen logo.png|size=20px}} ] | |||
| ---- | |||
| '''{{flagicon image|Ala kurdên rojava.svg}} ]''' | |||
| * {{flagicon image|People's Protection Units Flag.svg}} ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2013/04/23/world/kurdish-militia-decides-to-align-with-syria-rebels/#.UdZ5eqy2ZWE|title=Kurdish militia decides to align with Syria rebels|publisher=AFP-Jiji|date=23 April 2013 |accessdate=5 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
| |combatant2 = '''{{flagicon|Syria}} ]''' | |||
| * {{flagicon image|Syrian Armed Forces Flag.svg}} ] | |||
| * {{flagicon image|Flag of the National Defense Force.svg}} ]<ref name=UPI>{{cite news|title=Militias form as Aleppo clashes stalemate |url=http://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2012/09/06/Militias-form-as-Aleppo-clashes-stalemate/UPI-66041346913000|publisher=UPI|date=6 September 2012 |accessdate=9 September 2012}}</ref><ref name=Globalist8>{{cite news|title=Inside Syria: Aleppo's Christians arm against Islamists |url=http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/regions/middle-east/syria/120731/aleppo-christians-islamists-jihadis-al-qaeda-iraq-sectarian-conflict |publisher=] |date=31 July 2012 |accessdate=9 September 2012}}</ref><ref name=DNA0913>{{cite news|title=Christians take up arms in Aleppo |url=http://www.dnaindia.com/world/report_christians-take-up-arms-in-aleppo_1740437 |last1=Sherlock |first1=Ruth |last2=Malouf |first2=Carol |work=] |date=13 September 2012 |accessdate=13 September 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * {{flagicon image|Flag of the Ba'ath Party.svg}} ]<ref>{{cite web|author=Edward Dark Columnist |url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2013/11/baath-party-brigade-syria-war-aleppo.html# |title=Syrian Baath militia commander goes rags-to-riches – Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East |publisher=Al-Monitor |date= |accessdate=8 February 2014}}</ref> | |||
| * {{flagicon image|Flag_of_Palestine.svg}} Al-Quds Brigades<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2014/03/syria-aleppo-sunni-quds-baath-brigades.html#|title=Pro-regime Sunni fighters in Aleppo defy sectarian narrative|work=Al-Monitor|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://akhbar.alaan.tv/news/post/27246/syria-aleppo-city-jerusalem-district-largest-force-regime-battles|title=لواء القدس .. القوة الأكبر للنظام في معارك حلب|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| * ] | |||
| ** al-Berri clan<ref name=Kat>{{cite web|title=Syria rebels to target intel, as Assad hails army |url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2012/Aug-01/183024-syria-rebels-to-target-intel-as-assad-hails-army.ashx#axzz22JS4jWNB |author=Kat Iskander |work=The Daily Star|date=1 August 2012 |accessdate=1 August 2012}}</ref><ref name=firingsquad>{{cite web |url=http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2012/08/201281112018409533.html |title=Syrian MP killed publicly by FSA firing squad |author=Anita McNaught |date=1 August 2012 |publisher=Al Jazeera |accessdate=2 August 2012}}</ref> | |||
| {{flagicon image|InfoboxHez.PNG}} ]<ref name="washingtonpost.com">{{cite news|author=Loveday Morris |url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/hezbollah-boosting-assads-forces-in-northern-syria/2013/06/02/3bb59c7e-cb9e-11e2-8f6b-67f40e176f03_story.html |title=In Syria, Hezbollah forces mass around Aleppo to aid Assad |publisher=The Washington Post |date= 3 June 2013|accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
| {{flagicon image|Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq flag.svg|40px}} ]<ref name="karar">{{cite web|author=Omar al-Jaffal|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2013/10/iraqi-shiites-join-syrian-war.html |title=Iraqi Shiites Join Syria War|publisher=Al-Monitor |date= |accessdate=4 November 2013}}</ref> | |||
| |combatant3='''{{flagicon image|Flag of Islamic State of Iraq.svg}} ]'''<ref name=ISISoutAleppo/><ref>{{cite news|title=ISIS driven out of Aleppo |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-01-09/al-qaeda-linked-group-isis-driven-out-of-aleppo2c-syria2c-reb/5191482 |work=ABCnews |date=9 January 2014 |accessdate= 10 January 2014}}</ref> | |||
| |commander1 =]<br /><small>(FSA Aleppo top commander)</small><ref> ], 3 November 2013</ref><br />]<br /><small>(FSA Aleppo deputy commander)</small><ref name=Rudaw>{{cite news|title=Kurdish Militias Help Out Syrian Rebels in Aleppo |url=http://www.rudaw.net/english/news/syria/5082.html |last=Van Wilgenburg |first=Wladimir |date=13 August 2012 |accessdate=9 September 2012}}{{Dead link|date=November 2013}}</ref><br />]{{KIA}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/18/us-syria-crisis-commander-idUSBRE9AH03H20131118|title=Top Syrian rebel commander dies from wounds|work=Reuters|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><br /><small>(Al-Tawhid Brigade top commander)</small><ref>{{cite news|title=Syria rebels struggle to advance in Aleppo offensive |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/09/28/us-usa-syria-chemicalweapons-idUSBRE88R0WY20120928 |last1=Solomon |first1=Erica |last2=Karouny |first2=Mariam |last3=Heavens |first3=Andrew |publisher=Reuters |date=28 September 2012 |accessdate=29 September 2012}}</ref><br />]{{KIA}}<br /><small>(Al-Tawhid Brigade)</small><ref name="commander killed">{{cite news|url=https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/nowsyrialatestnews/key_rebel_commander_killed_in_syrias_aleppo|title=Key rebel commander killed in Syria's Aleppo|last=AFP|date=15 December 2012|work=Syria|publisher=NOW|accessdate=16 December 2012}}</ref><br />]{{KIA}}<ref name="Islamistbrigadestrike"> ] (AFP), 15 November 2013</ref><br /><small>(Al-Tawhid Brigade)</small><br />]<br /><small>(Sultan Abdulhamid Han Brigade)</small><ref name=Turkmen>{{cite news|title=Syrian Turkmen fighting for better future |url=http://www.timeturk.com/en/2012/08/24/syrian-turkmen-fighting-for-better-future.html |publisher=TimeTurk |date=24 August 2012 |accessdate=10 September 2012}}</ref>{{-}}]{{-}}<small>(Kata ib-Essalam)</small><ref name=CBC>{{cite news|title=Free Syrian Army an uneasy mix of religious extremes |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/story/2012/12/06/f-vp-bedard-syrian-rebels.html|last=Bedard |first=Marie-Eve |publisher=] |date=7 December 2012 |accessdate=7 December 2012}}</ref>{{-}}]{{-}}<small>(Al-Nusra Front)</small><ref>{{cite news|title=British convert to Islam vows to fight to the death on Syrian rebel front line |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/9481246/British-convert-to-Islam-vows-to-fight-to-the-death-on-Syrian-rebel-front-line.html |last=Spencer |first=Richard|work=The Daily Telegraph |date=16 August 2012 |accessdate=22 September 2012 |location=London}}</ref><br />]<br /><small>(Army of Mujahedeen)</small><ref name=aa6jan>{{cite news|url=http://english.al-akhbar.com/content/syria-army-mujahideen-challenges-isis-gains|title=Syria: Army of the Mujahideen Challenges ISIS Gains|publisher=Al Akhbar|date=6 January 2014|accessdate=1 May 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Kim Sengupta |url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/the-people-who-live-on-aleppos-fiercest-frontline-have-fled-only-the-fighters-remain-7988037.html |title=The people who live on Aleppo's fiercest frontline have fled. Only the fighters remain |publisher=Independent |date=31 July 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref><br />]{{KIA}}<br /><small>( Islamic Front)</small><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.i24news.tv/en/news/international/middle-east/140223-top-al-qaida-operative-killed-in-syria-suicide-blast|title=Top al-Qaida operative killed in Syria suicide blast|publisher=24News|date=23 February 2014}}</ref> | |||
| ---- | |||
| ]<small>(PYD)</small><ref> ], 5 November 2012</ref> | |||
| |commander2 = ]<br /><small>(Chief of the General Staff)</small><br />]<br /><small>(4th Division)</small><br />]<br/><small>(Head of Aleppo military operations)</small><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2014/02/barrel-bombing-syria-aleppo-rebels-regime-war.html#|title=Barrel bombings cause mass evacuation in east Aleppo|work=Al-Monitor|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><br/>]<br /><small>(Governor of Aleppo)</small><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/09/20129915724124835.html |title=Syrian strikes on Aleppo 'kill dozens'|publisher=Aljazeera.com |date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref><br />] {{KIA}}<br /><small>(Republican Guard Commander)</small><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Mar-23/251083-third-day-of-fighting-at-syria-turkey-border-crossing.ashx#axzz2whhUUyEC|title=Third day of fighting at Syria-Turkey border crossing|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=16831&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.Uy7UMfldWfU|title=Progress of the Brigades and the Islamic victory in Aleppo and killed the commander of the Republican Guard|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><br />]{{KIA}}<br /><small>(Lebanese-Canadian Hezbollah commander)</small><ref>{{cite news|title=Faouzi Ayoub, Lebanese-Canadian terror suspect, reportedly killed in Syria |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/Faouzi-Ayoub-Lebanese-Canadian-terror-suspect-reportedly-killed-in-Syria-1.2655194|publisher=] |date=27 May 2014 |accessdate=27 May 2014}}</ref><br />] {{executed}}<br /><small>(al-Berri tribe leader)</small><ref name=firingsquad /><br /> | |||
| ]<br /><small>(Haidar al-Karar Brigades leader)</small><ref name="karar" /> | |||
| |commander3 = {{flagicon|Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant}} ]<br><small>(Senior ISIS commander)</small> <ref>{{cite web | |||
| | title = Abu Ayman al-Iraqi | |||
| | url = http://www.counterextremism.com/people/abu-ayman-al-iraqi | |||
| | date = 2014 | |||
| | accessdate =2/11/2014}}</ref> | |||
| |units1 = Elements of: | |||
| * ]<ref name="emboldened">{{cite news |url=http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/story/2012-07-22/syria-violence-aleppo/56408056/1|work=USA Today |title=Emboldened Syrian rebels push into Aleppo | date=22 July 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * ]<ref name=Insight>{{cite news|title=INSIGHT-Syria rebels see future fight with foreign radicals |url=http://in.reuters.com/article/2012/08/08/syria-crisis-idINL6E8J763T20120808 |publisher=Reuters |date=8 August 2012 |accessdate=9 September 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * ]<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-18563_162-57481075/syria-rebel-leader-says-his-men-are-ready-to-take-on-assads-forces-in-fight-for-aleppo/ |title=Syria rebel leader says his men are ready to take on Assad's forces in fight for Aleppo |author=Clarissa Ward |date=26 July 2012 |publisher=CBS News |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * Salaheddine Martyrs Brigade<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.alaskadispatch.com/article/battle-aleppo-rebels-regime-refugees-inside-syria |title=The Battle for Aleppo: rebels, regime, refugees inside Syria |date=28 July 2012 |work=Alaska Dispatch |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * Abu-Bakr Brigade<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2012/08/10/battered-syrian-rebels-cede-aleppo-s-salaheddin-district-to-assad-military.html |title=Battered Syrian Rebels Cede Aleppo's Salaheddin District to Assad Military |publisher=Thedailybeast.com |date=10 August 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * Al-Fatah Brigade<ref name=Hurriyet>{{cite news|title=Rebels fighting against al-Assad rule fragmented, disorganized in Syria |url=http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/images/Documents/F199BC38846F4E72B083A4222B568E7F.pdf |work=Hürriyet Daily News |date=2 September 2012 |accessdate=10 September 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * Fajrul Islam<ref name=Hurriyet /> | |||
| * Dara al-Shahbaa Brigade<ref name="nowlebanon1">{{cite web|url=http://www.arabnews.com/middle-east/syria-rebels-withdraw-totally-aleppo-district |title=Syria rebels withdraw totally from Aleppo district |publisher=Arab News |date=9 August 2012|accessdate=7 March 2013}}</ref> | |||
| * Harakat Fajr ash-Sham al-Islamiya<ref name="winep1">{{cite web|url=http://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/view/the-syrian-islamic-front-a-new-extremist-force | title=The Syrian Islamic Front: A New Extremist Force | publisher=Washington Institute for Near East Policy | date=4 February 2013 |accessdate=29 April 2014}}</ref> | |||
| * Nour al-Haq Brigade<ref name="retakepart">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-19192413 |title=Syria crisis: Rebels lose key district of Aleppo |publisher=BBC|date=9 August 2012 |accessdate=7 March 2013}}</ref> | |||
| * ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/08/201281051654976892.html |title=Syrian rebels lose key Aleppo district |publisher=Al Jazeera|date= |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * Suleiman al-Farisi Brigade<ref name="videoshows">{{cite news|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/09/10/us-syria-crisis-execution-idUSBRE8890V420120910 |title=Video shows 20 Syrian soldiers believed executed |publisher=Reuters|date= 10 September 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012 |first=Oliver |last=Holmes}}</ref> | |||
| * ]<ref name=Hurriyet /> | |||
| * United Salam Brigades<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/59204-outsiders-bogged-down-in-protracted-battle-for-aleppo |title=Outsiders Bogged Down in Protracted Battle for Aleppo |publisher=Naharnet.com |date=2 November 2012 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| * Kata ib-Essalam<ref name=CBC /> | |||
| * ]<ref name=lwj>{{cite web |title=Chechen commander leads Muhajireen Brigade in Syria|date=20 February 2013|url=http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2013/02/chechen_commander_le.php| publisher=]}}</ref> | |||
| * ]<ref name=iraqiupdate>{{cite web|title=Key Updates on Iraq’s Sunni Insurgent Groups|url=http://brown-moses.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/key-updates-on-iraqs-sunni-insurgent.html|author=Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi|publisher=Brown Moses Blog|date=11 May 2014|accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref> | |||
| * ]<ref name=winep28april>{{cite web|url=http://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/view/rebels-worth-supporting-syrias-harakat-hazm|title=Rebels Worth Supporting: Syria's Harakat Hazm|publisher=Washington Institute for Near East Policy|date=28 April 2014|accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref> | |||
| * ]<ref name="maghrebi">{{cite web|url=http://the-arab-chronicle.com/maghrebi-jihad-veteran-killed-syria/|title=Abu Ahmad al-Maghrebi (Ibrahim Bencheqroun), un vétéran du Jihad mort en Syrie | trans-title=Jihad veteran killed in Syria|date=3 April 2014|accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref> | |||
| |units2 = Elements of: | |||
| '''1st Corps''': | |||
| * ]<ref name=autogenerated1>{{cite news|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/10/02/us-syria-crisis-idUSBRE88J0X720121002 |title=Syria's Assad tours Aleppo, orders more troops into battle, |publisher=Reuters.com |date= 2 October 2012|accessdate=29 August 2013 |first=Oliver |last=Holmes}}</ref> | |||
| Independent units: | |||
| * ]<ref>{{cite news|author=Martin Chulov |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/aug/05/aleppo-rebels-regime-power-fades-away |title=Aleppo rebels wait anxiously for Bashar al-Assad's elite to attack |publisher=Guardian |date= 5 August 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> | |||
| * ]<ref>{{cite web|author=Syria Report |url=http://syriareport.net/report-maher-al-assad-commanding-homs-assault/ |title=Report: Maher al-Assad Commanding Homs Assault |publisher=Syriareport.net |date=7 July 2013 |accessdate=8 February 2014}}</ref> | |||
| * ] | |||
| * 46th Special Forces (Airborne) Regiment<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.reuters.com/video/2012/09/22/rebels-hit-army-hq-in-aleppo?videoId=237925277 |title=Rebels hit army HQ in Aleppo |publisher=Reuters|date=8 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * 80th Army Brigade<ref>{{cite web|url=http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/syrian-airline-cancels-flight-aleppo-18089191#.UN7-AW_7JCg |title=Syrian Airline Cancels Flight to Aleppo |publisher=Abcnews.go.com |date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| |units3 = ] | |||
| |strength1 = 15,000 fighters | |||
| * 2,500 ]<ref>{{cite news|title=Al-Qaeda affiliate playing larger role in Syria rebellion |url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/post-partisan/post/al-qaeda-affiliate-playing-larger-role-in-syria-rebellion/2012/11/30/203d06f4-3b2e-11e2-9258-ac7c78d5c680_blog.html |last=Ignatius |first=David|newspaper=Washington Post|date=30 November 2012 |accessdate=1 December 2012}}</ref> and ] fighters<ref>{{cite news|title=British convert to Islam vows to fight to the death on Syrian rebel front line |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/9481246/British-convert-to-Islam-vows-to-fight-to-the-death-on-Syrian-rebel-front-line.html |last=Spencer |first=Richard |authorlink=Richard Spencer (journalist) |publisher=The Daily Telegraph |date=16 August 2012 |accessdate=8 December 2012 |location=London}}</ref></small>{{-}} | |||
| <small>(opposition claims)</small>{{-}} | |||
| 6,000–8,000 fighters<ref name="clintonvisits">{{cite web|url=http://english.alarabiya.net/articles/2012/08/05/230518.html |title=Clinton visits Turkey for Syria talks as army pounds rebels in Aleppo |publisher=Al Arabiya |date=5 August 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref><br /><small>(government claims)</small><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.newstrackindia.com/newsdetails/2012/07/29/220-Syrian-army-starts-purging-Aleppo-from-Jihadists-minister-pledges-to-eradicate-terrorism.html |title=Syrian army starts "purging" Aleppo from "Jihadists", minister pledges to eradicate terrorism |agency=Asian News International |date=29 July 2012 |publisher=newstrackindia.com |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> | |||
| |strength2 = 20,000 troops mobilised<ref>{{cite news|author=Richard Galpin |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-19137637 |title=Syria conflict: Troops 'mass for Aleppo assault' |publisher=BBC|date=5 August 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref><br />(3,000 engaged)<ref name=retake /><br /><small>(government claims)</small> | |||
| 1,500 Shabiha<ref name="liveupdates">{{cite news |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/jul/29/syria-bashar-al-assad |title=Syria: Battle for Aleppo – live updates |date=29 July 2012 |work=The Guardian |accessdate=29 July 2012 |location=London |first=Haroon |last=Siddique}}</ref> | |||
| 100 tanks and 400 armored personnel carriers<ref name="liveupdates" /><br /><small>(opposition claims)</small> | |||
| Hezbollah fighters: | |||
| * 2,000 <small>(Hezbollah commander claim)</small> | |||
| * 4,000 <small>(FSA claim)</small><ref>{{cite news|last=Morris |first=Loveday |url=http://articles.washingtonpost.com/2013-06-02/world/39697806_1_lebanese-hezbollah-lebanese-shiite-forces |title=In Syria, Hezbollah forces appear ready to attack rebels in city of Aleppo|work=Washington Post|date=2 June 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}<br />{{cite news|author=Matthew Weaver |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/middle-east-live/2013/jun/03/syria-rebels-fight-hezbollah-in-lebanon-live |title=Syrian rebels fight Hezbollah in Lebanon|publisher=Guardian |date=3 June 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013 |location=London}}<br />{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Politics/2013/Jun-04/219388-4000-hezbollah-fighters-reach-rebel-held-aleppo-fsa.ashx#axzz2WPlGOuIA |title=4,000 Hezbollah fighters reach rebel-held Aleppo: FSA|publisher=The Daily Star |date= |accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
| |strength3 = Unknown | |||
| |casualties1 =Unknown (PYD ~100 killed)<ref name="kurdishmilitiamen" /><ref name="kurdish" /><ref name="discuss" /> | |||
| |casualties2 =Unknown | |||
| |casualties3 = Unknown | |||
| |notes = <center><big>10,800+ overall deaths and 4,500+ missing</big> (by April 2013)<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.economist.com/blogs/pomegranate/2013/04/syrias-crisis?fsrc=scn/tw/te/bl/theextentofsuffering|title=The extent of the suffering|date=2 April 2013|work=Pomegranate|publisher=Economist|accessdate=8 April 2013}}</ref><br><big>31,000 dead in the whole province<ref>{{cite web|url=http://famagusta-gazette.com/syria-conflict-death-toll-nears-p25018-69.htm|title=Syria conflict death toll nears 200,000|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref></big> (since the start of the war through April 2014)</center> | |||
| }} | |||
| ] | |||
| {{Campaignbox Syrian civil war}} | |||
| {{Campaignbox Battle of Aleppo}} | |||
| The '''Battle of Aleppo''' ({{lang-ar|معركة حلب}}) is an ongoing military confrontation in ], Syria between the ], ], ] and ] against the ] and ]. The battle began on 19 July 2012 as a part of the ]. Clashes escalated in late July in ]'s largest city that holds great strategic and economic importance.<ref name="guard">{{cite news |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/jul/22/syrian-rebels-fight-aleppo |title=Syrian rebels fight Assad troops in Aleppo |author=Luke Harding and Martin Chulov |date=22 July 2012 |work=The Guardian |accessdate=29 July 2012 |location=London}}</ref> The battle's scale and importance led combatants to name it the "mother of battles".<ref>{{cite news|last=McElroy|first=Damien|title=Badly armed rebels face tanks as Syria's mother of battles begins|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/9435261/Badly-armed-rebels-face-tanks-as-Syrias-mother-of-all-battles-begins.html|work=The Telegraph|date=28 July 2012|location=London}}<br />{{cite news|last=Hermant|first=Norman|title=Fears about the 'mother of all battles' for Aleppo|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-07-28/fears-about-the-mother-of-all-battles-for-aleppo/4160852|work=ABC|date=28 July 2012}}</ref> The battle has been highly noted for the Syrian army's indiscriminate use of ]s dropped from helicopters, killing thousands.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/in-syria-barrel-bombs-bring-a-new-form-of-terror-and-death-to-aleppo/2013/12/23/6f8a7f0c-6bed-11e3-aecc-85cb037b7236_story.html | work=The Washington Post | first1=Abigail | last1=Hauslohner | first2=Ahmed | last2=Ramadan | title=Middle East | date=24 December 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aa.com.tr/en/news/282862--barrel-bomb-attacks-in-aleppo-kill-24 |title=Syrian regime kills 78, activists say Anadolu Agency |publisher=Aa.com.tr |date= |accessdate=2014-08-17}}</ref><ref>BBC News, 28 April 2014 </ref> Hundreds of thousands have been forced to evacuate. | |||
| The battle also caused catastrophic destruction of ], a ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2014/04/17/world/middleeast/syrian-war-takes-heavy-toll-at-a-crossroad-of-cultures.html|title=Syrian War Takes Heavy Toll at a Crossroad of Cultures|date=2014-04-16|accessdate=2014-05-12}}</ref> | |||
| == Onset == | |||
| The uprising began on 15 March 2011, with nationwide protests against the Syrian regime led by President Assad. The inhabitants of Syria's two largest cities, ] and ], initially remained largely uninvolved. As well as opposition protests,<ref>NYT (17 May 2012) </ref> government organized rallies in support of the Assad government were held.<ref name="GP">{{cite news |url=http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/regions/middle-east/110624/syria-protests-assad |title=Syria: What motivates an Assad supporter? |work=Global Post |date=24 June 2011 |accessdate=22 February 2012 }}</ref> | |||
| ] began on 10 February 2012. Over the next five months, major clashes left large parts of the rural countryside under rebel control, while the provincial capital, Aleppo city, remained firmly under government control. On 19 July 2012, rebel forces stormed the city and the battle began.<ref name="guard" /> | |||
| == Combatants == | |||
| At the beginning of the Battle of Aleppo, rebels reportedly fielded between 6,000<ref>{{cite news|author=Martin Chulov |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/aug/04/aleppo-syria-civil-war |title=War for Aleppo: battle rages in city that will determine fate of Syria |publisher=Guardian |date=4 August 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> and 7,000<ref name="new offensive">{{cite news|author=Matthew Weaver and Brian Whitaker |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/middle-east-live/2012/aug/08/syria-crisis-rebels-kill-russian-general-live |title=Syria crisis: Assad's new offensive in Aleppo – live updates |publisher=Guardian |date=8 August 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> fighters within 18 battalions.<ref name=keycities>{{cite news|author=Ivan Watson |url=http://www.cnn.com/2012/07/26/world/meast/syria-unrest/index.html |title=Battles for key cities of Aleppo, Damascus heat up in Syrian civil war |publisher=CNN |date=26 July 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> The largest was the ]. The most prominent was the ], largely composed of army defectors. Most Syrian rebels hail from the Aleppo countryside, from towns such as Al-Bab, Marea, Azaz, Tel Rifaat and Manbij.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syrian rebels fight on for Aleppo despite local wariness |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/aug/21/syrian-rebels-aleppo-local-hostility |last=Chulov |first=Martin |date=21 August 2012 |accessdate=9 September 2012 |location=London |work=The Guardian}}</ref> However, a resident reportedly accused the rebels of using civilian homes as shelter.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2012/Sep-27/189319-aleppo-residents-caught-in-crossfire-losing-faith-in-rebels.ashx#ixzz27cMjLaFd |title=Aleppo residents caught in crossfire losing faith in rebels |publisher=Daily Star|date=27 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> On 19 November 2012, the rebel fighters initially rejected the newly formed ], most notably the al-Tawhid Brigade and the al-Nusra Front.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syrian Islamists Reject Western-Backed Opposition |url=http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/syrian-islamist-groups-reject-opposition-coalition-17758755#.UKq0Z-T8KW0 |last=Kennedy |first=Elizabeth |publisher=] |date=19 November 2012 |accessdate=19 November 2012}}</ref> The next day the rebels withdrew their rejection.<ref>{{cite news|title=Aleppo rebels retract rejection of coalition |url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/11/2012112016567298627.html |last=Atassi |first=Basma |publisher=] |date=20 November 2012 |accessdate=20 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Looting for supplies became a common occurrence among rebel fighters by December, switching their loyalties to groups who had more to share. This new approach led to incidents such as the killing of at least one rebel commander following a dispute, the loss of a frontline position due to fighters retreating with their loot and the failure of an attack on a Kurdish neighborhood. The looting cost the fighters significant popular support.<ref>, The Guardian</ref> | |||
| Islamic extremists and foreign fighters joined the fight. Many of them were experienced and came from the ongoing insurgency in neighboring Iraq.<ref name="Insight" /> Jihadists reportedly came from across the Muslim World.<ref name="Hurriyet" /> Jacques Bérès, a French surgeon who treated wounded fighters, reported a significant number of foreign fighters, most with Islamist goals and were not directly interested in Bashar al-Assad. They included Libyans, Chechens and Frenchmen. He said this was in stark contrast to Idlib and Homs, where foreign forces were not common.<ref name="Berres">{{cite news|title=Jihadists join Aleppo fight, eye Islamic state, surgeon says |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/09/08/us-syria-crisis-jihad-idUSBRE88708W20120908|date=8 September 2012 |accessdate=9 September 2012|work=Reuters}}</ref> Some FSA brigades cooperated with Mujahideen fighters.<ref name="Insight" /> | |||
| The Syrian government retained support in Aleppo. A rebel commander stated that "around 70% of Aleppo city is with the regime". However, during the course of the battle, Assad lost support from Aleppo's wealthy class.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2012/09/01/bashar-al-assad-lost-the-support-of-aleppo-s-wealthy-when-the-shelling-started.html |title=Bashar al-Assad Lost The Support of Aleppo's Wealthy When the Shelling Started |publisher=The Daily Beast |date=1 September 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> CBS News reported that 48 elite businessmen who were the primary financiers for the Syrian government switched sides.<ref name="cbsnews.com">{{cite news|url=http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503543_162-57499071-503543/assads-aleppo-backers-abandon-him-some-shift-support-cash-to-rebels-in-risky-gamble/ |title=Assad's Aleppo backers abandon him, some shift support, cash to rebels in risky gamble|publisher=CBS News |date=23 August 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> For the first time, the Syrian Army engaged in urban warfare. They divided their forces into groups of 40 soldiers each. The soldiers were mostly armed with automatic rifles and anti-tank rockets. Artillery, tanks and helicopters are used only as a support. In August the Army deployed its elite units.<ref>{{cite news|title=Assad's man directs battle for Aleppo |url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/assads-man-directs-battle-for-aleppo/story-e6frg6so-1226466759906 |work=The Australian |date=7 September 2012 |accessdate=10 September 2012}}</ref> Eventually, after the rebels executed Shabiha and Zeino al-Berri (tribal leader of the al-Berri tribe) the tribe joined the fight against the rebels.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syria rebels to target intel, as Assad hails army |url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2012/Aug-01/183024-syria-rebels-to-target-intel-as-assad-hails-army.ashx#axzz22JS4jWNB |last=Kat |first=Iskander |date=1 August 2012 |accessdate=9 September 2012}}</ref> Some Christians supported the Army and formed militias after the capture of their quarters by the special forces of the Syrian Army.<ref name="UPI" /><ref name="Globalist8" /> The (Christian) Armenians also supported the Syrian Army. Aleppo's Armenians claimed that Turkey supported the FSA in order to attack Armenians. Arab Christian and Armenian militia had around 150 fighters.<ref name="DNA0913" /> | |||
| At the beginning Aleppo's Kurds formed armed groups, most notably the Kurdish Salahaddin Brigade. The brigade worked with the opposition, while the Kurdish ] (PYD) had poor relations with both sides. The PYD's Popular Protection Committees stayed out of Arab areas and insisted that the FSA stay out of the Kurdish area. They did not fight the Syrian Army unless attacked.<ref>{{cite news|title=Cold PKK-FSA Truce in Syria |url=http://www.rudaw.net/english/science/columnists/5063.html |last=Van Wilgenburg |first=Wladimir |work=Rudaw |date=8 August 2012 |accessdate=9 September 2012}}</ref> The Kurdish areas in Aleppo were mainly under PYD control.<ref name="Rudaw" /> Four hundred Turkmen joined the battle under Sultan Abdulhamid Han.<ref name="Turkmen" /> | |||
| == Battle == | |||
| === Rebel attack and capture of Eastern Aleppo === | |||
| Gunfire between rebels and security forces broke out on the night of 19 July 2012 in and around Salaheddine, a district in the city's southwest portion.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2012/Jul-20/181348-fierce-fighting-in-syrias-aleppo-ngo.ashx#axzz21EXLhUyc |title=Fierce fighting in Syria's Aleppo:activists |date=20 July 2012 |work=The Daily Star |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> It is unclear whether the district had a strong rebel presence before the battle began, or was captured by opposition fighters coming from the outskirts. Meanwhile, thousands of rebel soldiers from Aleppo's northern and eastern countryside began to move towards the city. | |||
| Fighting in Salaheddine continued into the next day, as the Syrian Army began shelling rebel-controlled districts with artillery and attack helicopters. By the early afternoon of 21 July, rebel forces had penetrated Aleppo's northeastern neighborhoods of Haydariya and Sakhour, where they clashed with the Syrian Army. The fighting drove many residents to safer areas.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/topic/syria/first-time-we-feel-aleppo-has-turned-battle-zone-housewife-aleppo-says |title="For the first time we feel Aleppo has turned into a battle zone," a housewife in Aleppo says. |date=21 July 2012 |publisher=Al Jazeera |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 22 July, fighting had spread from Salaheddine and neighboring Saif al-Dawla to al-Jameeliya and its surrounding neighborhoods near the city center,<ref name="bw">{{cite web |url=http://www.businessweek.com/news/2012-07-22/syrian-rebels-take-fight-to-aleppo-after-seizing-border-posts#p1 |title=Syrian Rebels Battle for Aleppo After Seizing Border Posts |author=Zaid Sabah and Glen Carey |date=22 July 2012 |publisher=Bloomberg |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> leading to a battle for the city's main intelligence headquarters.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/topic/syria/rebels-reportedly-battle-government-forces-near-intelligence-headquarters-aleppo |title=Rebels reportedly battle government forces near intelligence headquarters in Aleppo |date=22 July 2012 |publisher=Al Jazeera |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> By the next day, rebels on the eastern front captured Helweniyeh, and according to a rebel commander, Hanano and the industrial area of ] as well.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/topic/syria/fsa-says-several-districts-aleppo-liberated |title=FSA says several districts of Aleppo "liberated" |publisher=Al Jazeera |date=23 July 2012 |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> Meanwhile, continuing clashes near the city center included a rebel attack on the state TV station and the central prison, where a massacre conducted by security forces had taken place, according to activists.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/topic/syria/eight-people-killed-prison-mutiny-syrias-second-city-aleppo-during-night-opposition-says |title=Eight people killed in a prison mutiny in Syria's second city of Aleppo during the night, opposition says. |date=24 July 2012 |publisher=Al Jazeera |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> Throughout the day, power was out in much of the city.<ref name="bbc">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-18952891 |title=Battle for Aleppo: Syrians react |date=23 July 2012 |publisher=BBC News |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> | |||
| === Fighting in city center and army reinforcements === | |||
| On 24 July 2012, the FSA launched an offensive to take the city center, leading to heavy fighting near the gates of the Old City, a United Nations ]. Rebel forces on the eastern front continued to push westwards. The FSA set up checkpoints in the eastern al-Sahkour district.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/topic/syria/syrian-activist-tweets-warning-what-he-says-are-fsa-roadblocks |title=Syrian activist Tweets warning on what he says are FSA roadblocks|publisher=Al Jazeera |date=24 July 2012 |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> Later that day, the Syrian Army employed fighter jets for the first time to bomb rebel-held districts.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/07/24/us-syria-crisis-idUSBRE8610SH20120724 |title=Syria sends armored column to Aleppo, strikes from air |author=Khaled Yacoub Oweis and Erika Solomon |date=24 July 2012 |publisher=Reuters |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> | |||
| During the next two days, the government sent thousands of reinforcements to Aleppo. The troops were sent mostly via the M5 highway connecting Damascus and Aleppo from the city's south, and the main Aleppo-Latakia road from the city's west. Rebels conducted deadly attacks on arriving troops. Among the reinforcements that massed on the outskirts of Aleppo were special forces units. By day's end 10,000 soldiers had massed around Aleppo and its countryside.<ref name="fears">{{cite news |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/middle-east-live/2012/jul/27/syria-us-fears-aleppo-massacre-live#block-17#block-31 |title=Syria crisis: US fears Aleppo 'massacre' |date=27 July 2012 |work=The Guardian |accessdate=29 July 2012 |location=London |first1=Matthew |last1=Weaver |first2=Brian |last2=Whitaker}}</ref> By comparison, 1500 to 2000 rebel fighters from around northern Syria arrived to assist the 2,000 already fighting.<ref name="gather">{{cite news |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/jul/26/syrian-forces-gather-aleppo-assault |title=Syrian forces gather for Aleppo assault |author=Luke Harding and Ian Black |date=26 July 2012 |work=The Guardian |accessdate=29 July 2012 |location=London}}</ref> Fighting raged in the Old City and in the central districts of Jamaliya, Kalasseh, and Bustan al-Qasr.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.thehimalayantimes.com/fullNews.php?headline=Aleppo+in+for+major+battle&NewsID=341007 |title=Aleppo in for major battle |date=25 July 2012 |work=The Himalayan Times |agency=Agence France-Presse |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 27 July, skirmishes occurred on the outskirts as reinforcements continued to arrive. Rebel forces advanced to the central district of Fardous, despite continued bombardment.<ref name="fears" /> Kurdish fighters, who had gained control over most of the northern districts of ] and Al-Ashrafiya, clashed with Syrian troops a day after they attacked a Kurdish convoy on the airport road.<ref name="kurdish">{{cite web |url=http://www.aknews.com/en/aknews/3/318894/ |title=Kurdish forces kill six Syrian soldiers in Aleppo |date=27 July 2012 |publisher=Kurdistan News Agency |accessdate=29 July 2012}}{{Dead link|date=August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| === Salaheddine raid === | |||
| On the morning of 28 July 2012, the Syrian Army started an attack against Salaheddine district, which held the largest concentration of rebels.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=423149 |title=Syrian army launches Aleppo counter-offensive, activists say |date=28 July 2012 |publisher=Now Lebanon |accessdate=29 July 2012}}{{Dead link|date=August 2013}}</ref> The assault commenced with an eight-hour artillery bombardment, which started at four in the morning, after which tanks and ground troops moved in.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.skynews.com.au/topstories/article.aspx?id=777067 |title=Syria rebels fend off Aleppo assault |date=29 July 2012 |publisher=Sky News |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> During the clashes, rebels, providing unverified video footage, claimed to have shot down a government helicopter gunship, a rare feat. Rebels also claimed that 8–10 tanks and armored vehicles were destroyed.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://bostonglobe.com/2012/07/27/syria/A6mTjwStmy8t0ebLx9wUMJ/story.html |title=Syrian forces reportedly kill 12 in Aleppo |author=Kareem Fahim |date=27 July 2012 |work=The Boston Globe |accessdate=29 July 2012}}<br />{{cite news|title='Tragedy brewing' as Syria launches Aleppo assault|url=http://www.news.com.au/news/syria-launches-aleppo-attack/story-fnejlrpu-1226437715385|work=News Limited|date=29 July 2012}}</ref> Rebel forces attacked a strategic police station in the city center for the third day, in an attempt to link up with opposition forces in the northeastern Sakhour district on the eastern front.<ref name="ngo">{{cite news |url=http://www.news.com.au/news/syria-launches-aleppo-attack/story-fnejlrpu-1226437715385 |title='Tragedy brewing' as Syria launches Aleppo assault |date=29 July 2012 |publisher=news.com.au |accessdate=29 July 2012}}<br />{{cite news |url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/hell-in-aleppo-as-syrian-troops-bombard-rebels/story-e6frg6so-1226437775325 |title=Syrian troops bombard rebels in Aleppo |date=29 July 2012 |work=The Australian |agency=Agence France-Presse |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> By the end of the day, the rebels had repelled the assault, but the bombardment continued.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.yahoo.com/syrian-rebels-survive-regime-onslaught-aleppo-192314241.html |title=Syrian rebels survive regime onslaught in Aleppo |author=Paul Schemm |date=28 July 2012 |work=Yahoo |agency=Associated Press |accessdate=7 March 2013}}</ref> Among the FSA fighters killed was a battalion commander.<ref name="ngo" /> On the next day, fighting continued in Salaheddine. Syrian Army soldiers were reportedly defecting, bringing their tanks.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/jul/29/syria-bashar-al-assad?newsfeed=true#block-501546d9b579c24ed043765f |title=Syria: Battle for Aleppo – live updates 15:21 BST |date=29 July 2012 |work=The Guardian |accessdate=29 July 2012 |location=London |first=Haroon |last=Siddique}}</ref> In the evening, state media reported that Salaheddine had been recaptured by the Army. The opposition contrarily claimed to control 35 to 40 percent of the city.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=423559#ixzz225rayOB7 |date=30 July 2012 |work=Nowlebanon |title=Syrian army overruns part of rebel bastion in Aleppo, source says |accessdate=30 July 2012}}{{Dead link|date=August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| === Continued rebel advance === | |||
| In late July and early August 2012, the FSA continued its offensive in Aleppo, with both sides suffering high casualties. Rebel commanders said their main aim was to capture the city center.<ref name="armypounds">{{cite news|last=Solomon |first=Erika |url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/2012/07/31/uk-syria-crisis-idUKBRE86H18C20120731 |title=Syrian army pounds Aleppo, rebels claim successes |publisher=Reuters |date=31 July 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> Rebels ] north of Aleppo, gaining a direct route between the city and the Turkish border, an important rebel supply base.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/topic/syria/syrian-rebels-seize-strategic-checkpoint-between-aleppo-and-turkey-according-rebel |title=Syrian rebels seize strategic checkpoint between Aleppo and Turkey, according to rebel officer |date=30 July 2012 |publisher=Al Jazeera |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> They also captured ], northeast of the city with an army base.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.aljazeera.com/video/middleeast/2012/07/201273154349545922.html|title=Rebels claim victory in Syria's al-Bab town|date=31 July 2012 |work=Al Jazeera |accessdate=31 July 2012}}</ref> Later, rebels attacked the Minakh air base, 30 km northwest of Aleppo, with arms and tanks captured at the Anadan checkpoint.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thenews.com.pk/Todays-News-1-124473-Rebels-use-tanks-to-attack-air-base |title=Rebels use tanks to attack air base |publisher=The News|date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> Opposition forces continued to make territorial gains in the city, controlling most of eastern and southwestern Aleppo, including Salaheddine and parts of Hamdaniyeh.<ref name="independent1">{{cite news |url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/ambushes-and-air-strikes-as-syrian-regime-fight-rebels-streetbystreet-to-gain-possession-of-aleppo-7994450.html |title=Ambushes and air strikes as Syrian regime fight rebels street-by-street to gain possession of Aleppo |author=Kim Sengupta |date=31 July 2012 |work=The Independent |accessdate=31 July 2012 |location=London}}</ref> They continued to target security centers and police stations, as clashes erupted near the Air Force intelligence headquarters in Aleppo's northwestern Zahraa district.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/topic/syria/syrian-forces-blast-rebel-held-districts-aleppo-according-activists |title=Syrian forces blast rebel-held districts of Aleppo, according to activists |date=30 July 2012 |publisher=Al Jazeera |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> Rebels overran several police stations and posts in the central and southern districts of Bab al-Nerab, Al-Miersa, and Salhain, seizing significant amounts of arms and ammunition.<ref name="independent1" /> | |||
| ] | |||
| The Syrian military continued its attempt to capture Salaheddine, while bombing rebel-held territories throughout the city.<ref name="armypounds" /> Ambushes and executions were common. The Army appeared to have made little effort in sending ground forces to recapture the central and southern districts.<ref name="independent1" /> The loyalist al-Barre militia began to clash with rebel forces in southern Aleppo and near the city's southeastern international airport. Clashes between the tribesmen and the rebels escalated after Zino Berri's execution.<ref>{{cite news|author=Matthew Weaver and Brian Whitaker |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/middle-east-live/2012/aug/01/syria-crisis-aircraft-attack-aleppo-live |title=Syria crisis: rebels 'execute shabiha' in Aleppo|publisher=Guardian |date=1 August 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> | |||
| === Stalemate === | |||
| ] | |||
| From 3 to 5 August 2012, the rebel offensive began to stall. The Syrian Army finished deploying 20,000 reinforcements.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=425196 |title=Syria army reinforcements in place for Aleppo battle |publisher=NOWLebanon|date=5 August 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}{{Dead link|date=August 2013}}</ref> Rebels retreated after failed attempts to capture Minagh airbase<ref>{{cite news|author=Matthew Weaver and Brian Whitaker |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/middle-east-live/2012/aug/03/syria-conflict-annan-live |title=Syria crisis: rows and more violence after Kofi Annan resigns – live updates |publisher=Guardian |date=3 August 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> and the state TV station in Izaa district, a few blocks northeast of Salahaddine.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/1677344/'Violence-rages'-in-Syria-after-UN-vote |title='Violence rages' in Syria after UN vote |publisher=Sbs.com.au |date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}{{Dead link|date=August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 6 August, a rebel commander was killed in Salahaddine.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/breaking-news/syria-warplanes-pound-aleppo-rebels/story-fn3dxix6-1226443511464 |title=Bomb hits Syria state TV building |publisher=Theaustralian.com.au |date=28 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> The media center of the Taweed brigade, located in Sakhour district, was destroyed by an airstrike. Rebels attacked a checkpoint near ].<ref name="primeminister">{{cite news|author=Matthew Weaver |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/middle-east-live/2012/aug/06/syria-crisis-state-tv-explosion-live |title=Syria crisis: prime minister 'defects' – live updates |publisher=Guardian |date=6 August 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> Fighting erupted near the presidential palace<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.cnn.com/2012/08/06/world/meast/syria-unrest/ |title=Officials: Syria's prime minister leaves regime |publisher=CNN|date=7 August 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> and government forces shelled rebel positions at the Palace of Justice and in Marjeh and Sha'ar (Terbet Lala) districts. | |||
| On 7 August, the ancient citadel in the city center was under siege by rebels who controlled the ground on at least two sides.<ref>{{cite news|author=Matthew Weaver and Brian Whitaker |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/middle-east-live/2012/aug/07/syria-crisis-hostages-aleppo-defections-live |title=Syria crisis: Iranian hostages, Aleppo battle, and defections – live updates |publisher=Guardian |date=7 August 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> | |||
| The FSA had reportedly advanced to the ] and ] districts<ref>{{cite news|title=Terrorists Commit Massacre against Civilians in a Resort in Homs Countryside, Terrorists Killed in Several Areas |url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/08/07/435189.htm|publisher=Syrian Arab News Agency|date=7 August 2012 |accessdate=7 August 2012}}</ref> amidst fierce clashes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.skynews.com.au/topstories/article.aspx?id=780933 |title=War spreads to new parts of Aleppo |publisher=Skynews.com.au |date=7 August 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> In the north, rebels attempted to advance into a Kurdish district, clashing with Kurdish fighters. Jets bombed the area, forcing rebel forces to retreat.<ref name="fightinggrows">{{cite news|url=http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/news/world/fighting-grows-more-intense-in-syrias-largest-city-647964/ |title=Fighting Grows More Intense in Syria's Largest City |publisher=Post-gazette.com |date=31 December 1969 |accessdate=2 November 2012 |first=Damien |last=Cave}}</ref> Opposition activists confirmed that Aleppo was completely surrounded by government troops. | |||
| Armored units inched forward on Salahaddine from the south and west. Military snipers deployed on rooftops and tanks were stationed in the streets. Snipers were also positioned in the local roundabout where they prevented rebel reinforcements and supplies from entering the district.<ref>{{cite news|last=Shalchi |first=Hadeel Al |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/08/07/us-syria-crisis-idUSBRE8610SH20120807 |title=Syrian forces encircle rebels in Aleppo stronghold |publisher=Reuters |date=7 August 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| === Rebel withdrawal from Salaheddine === | |||
| ] | |||
| On the morning of 8 August 2012, the Syrian military launched an offensive to retake Salaheddine, a rebel stronghold that an important southern supply route. The military hoped to link up with troops at the Aleppo Citadel. Rebel fighters were reportedly low on ammunition and exhausted. After intense fighting and shelling in the district throughout the day, half a dozen Army tanks breached the center. In the early morning of the next day, artillery shelling intensified as more tanks moved in. FSA units began to depart. By mid-morning, hundreds of rebel fighters were pulling out of the district, with some leaving the city. Fearing a continued Army advance, some rebel units in nearby Saif al-Dawla and Bustan al-Qasar, districts east of Salaheddine, also began to evacuate. The withdrawal occurred while the city remained relatively quiet, as government forces made little attempt to advance.<ref name="Rebel withdrawal">{{cite news|author=Kim Sengupta |url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/special-report-hundreds-of-rebel-fighters-leave-aleppo-after-relentless-shelling-by-regime-forces-8026802.html |title=Special report: Hundreds of rebel fighters leave Aleppo after relentless shelling by regime forces |publisher=Independent|date=10 August 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> During the evening of 9 August, troops and armored vehicles, accompanied by the Mukhabarat and the Shabiha, moved into the neighborhood, searching house to house for remaining rebels, as snipers began setting up positions.<ref name="Holes">{{cite news|last=Shalchi |first=Hadeel Al |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/08/11/us-syria-crisis-salaheddine-idUSBRE87A0C720120811 |title=Syrian rebels carve paths through buildings to avoid snipers |publisher=Reuters |date=11 August 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Fighting continued in the central district of Bab al-Hadid and the southeast district of Bab al-Nairab.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.al-akhbar.com/content/syrian-army-retakes-key-aleppo-district |title=Syrian army launches Aleppo ground offensive |publisher=Al-Akhbar|date=8 August 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> Rebel fighters made attempts to recapture Salaheddine, but were held back by snipers and mortar fire.<ref name="Holes" /> | |||
| === Army attack on Saif al-Dawla === | |||
| ] | |||
| On 12 August 2012, tanks advanced to the roundabout in Salaheddine which was defended by 150 rebels. During the day, rebels attacked a petrol station in Salaheddine, which was being used as a military base, and killed the base's commander and captured badly needed ammunition and weapons.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.firstpost.com/world/syrian-rebels-need-no-fly-zone-opposition-leader-415561.html|title=Syrian rebels need no-fly zone – opposition leader|publisher=Firstpost|date=12 August 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 13 August, the Army advanced into the western portion of the Saif al-Dawla district.<ref name="BBC 8/13">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-19246708|title=Syria crisis: Rebels 'shoot down warplane'|publisher=BBC|date=13 August 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012|author=Jonathan Marcus}}</ref><ref name="NGOsays">{{cite web|url=http://www.thenews.com.pk/article-63229-Syria-army-advances-into-rebel-held-district-of-Aleppo:-NGO--|title=Syria army advances into rebel-held area|publisher=The News|date=13 August 2012 |accessdate=7 March 2013}}</ref> Security sources in Damascus also stated that the Army was advancing on the rebel-held district of Sukari. The Observatory said opposition fighters attacked a key air force intelligence branch in the western Zahraa district.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/50289/World/Region/Syrian-forces-pound-Damascus,-raid-Old-City.aspx |title=Syrian forces pound Damascus, raid Old City|publisher=Ahram|date=13 August 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> Rebels again attacked the radio and television station in Aleppo.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://uk.reuters.com/video/2012/08/13/aleppo-rebels-in-counter-attack?videoId=237009015|title=Aleppo rebels in counter-attack|publisher=Reuters|date=5 August 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Video footage showed rebels shooting down a ]BN fighter and executions of prisoners in and around Aleppo by rebel forces.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-08-14/outrage-as-grisly-syria-video-shows-bodies-thrown-from-roof/4196550 |title=Uproar as footage shows Syrian rebel atrocities|publisher=ABC|date=14 August 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> Opposition activists claimed that rebels had nothing to do with the killings.<ref name="BBC 8/13" /> | |||
| On 15 August, rebels reported that they captured Bab al-Nasr and the surrounding area, forcing soldiers to retreat to the city centre.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/inside-aleppo-with-syrian-rebel-fighters-a-850002.html|title=Inside the Syrian Rebels' Fight For Aleppo|publisher=Spiegel|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 17 August, heavy fighting was reported at ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/topic/syria/rebels-struggle-break-government-siege-homs|title=Rebels struggle to break government siege of Homs|publisher=Al Jazeera|date=17 August 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> a strategic gateway to the city.<ref name="Murphy">{{cite news|title=Syria: clashes near airport in contested Aleppo|url=http://news.yahoo.com/syria-clashes-near-airport-contested-aleppo-105442168.html|last=Murphy|first=Brian|publisher=]|date=17 August 2012|accessdate=18 August 2012}}</ref> According to SANA, rebels were "pushed out from areas on both sides of the airport".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-202_162-57495651/government-rebels-battle-near-aleppo-airport-syrian-media/ |title=Government, rebels battle near Aleppo airport: Syrian media |publisher=CBS News|date=17 August 2012|accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 18 August, Army clearing operations were reported in the areas of al-Andalus school, al-Hayat Hospital, Rahmo Khatab school, al-Hamiyat Hospital and Ahmad Saeed school. The army claimed to have taken the area of Maysaloun Hospital.<ref name="sana.sy">{{cite web|url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/08/18/436976.htm |title=Terrorists Killed, Weapons Storehouses Destroyed...Border Infiltration {{not a typo|Attemtps}} Foiled|publisher=Syrian Arab news agency|date=18 August 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> On 20 August, the Japanese TV reporter ] was killed, the first in Aleppo.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syria Crisis: Mika Yamamoto, Japanese Journalist, Killed In Aleppo, Regime Forces Kill Dozens Of Rebels |url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/08/21/syria-crisis-damascus_n_1817017.html |last=Hendawi |first=Hamza |work=The Huffington Post |date=21 August 2012 |accessdate=21 August 2012}}</ref> On 21 August, both sides claimed advances, although neither could be independently verified.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/08/2012821133924677120.html |title=Heavy fighting as rebels claim Aleppo gains |publisher=Al Jazeera|date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 22 August, rebels tried to make an advance in Saif al-Dawla, but their attack was repelled by heavy mortar and RPG fire.<ref>{{cite news|last=Yacoub |first=Khaled |url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/2012/08/22/uk-syria-crisis-idUKBRE86H18C20120822 |title=Syrian army batters parts of Damascus, 47 killed |publisher=Reuters|date=22 August 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> Government forces shelled Aleppo and two neighbouring towns. The army bombarded rebel weapon stocks to keep them out of the city, according to a security official. He also said reinforcements for both sides were heading to Aleppo.<ref>{{cite news|title=Assad's forces hammer Aleppo |url=http://www.theage.com.au/world/assads-forces-hammer-aleppo-20120822-24mpd.html |publisher=The Age|date=22 August 2012 |accessdate=22 August 2012 |location=Melbourne}}</ref> | |||
| === Clashes in Christian districts === | |||
| On 23 August 2012, the military reportedly captured three Christian neighborhoods in the Old City, according to residents contacted by AFP. The districts of Jdeide, Tela and Sulaimaniyeh had been captured by opposition forces five days before. One resident claimed the Army was celebrated by hundreds of residents, who set up committees to avoid a potential return of the rebels.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2012/Aug-23/185459-syrian-army-batters-parts-of-damascus-47-killed.ashx#axzz24I1h67hv |title=Syria army recaptures Aleppo heart as fighting rages |publisher=Daily Star|date=23 August 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> The main rebel commander had, earlier in the day, claimed that rebel fighters were near the districts.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ansamed.info/ansamed/en/news/nations/syria/2012/08/23/Syria-Aleppo-rebel-chief-says-Christians-be-protected_7369776.html |title=Syria: Aleppo rebel chief says Christians will be protected |publisher=Ansamed.info |date=3 January 2010 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> The military capture was later confirmed by AFP.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5ihm4hkHwuhqLvVgzpnWiSMX9sBdw?docId=CNG.6e407b6a8ce05880ef03e016b2221a0e.671 |title=Life on Syria's front line: taxi driving in Aleppo |publisher=Google|date=6 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}<br />{{cite web|url=http://english.alarabiya.net/articles/2012/09/08/236775.html |title=War of words on streets of Syria's Aleppo |publisher=Al Arabiya |date=8 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> The capture of the Jdeide quarter was initiated by the residents, who took up arms after the rebels set up checkpoints and fired on churches and residents. They stormed the square where most rebels were positioned and took control of it. The Army later joined the Christian militia to expel the rebels from the quarter.<ref>{{cite news|last=Sherlock |first=Ruth |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/9539244/Syria-Christians-take-up-arms-for-first-time.html |title=Syria: Christians take up arms for first time |publisher=Telegraph|date=12 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> | |||
| CBS News learned that at least 48 of Aleppo's elite businessmen, calling themselves the "Front of Aleppo Islamic Scholars" (FAIS), hand-picked a provisional city council to take over as Aleppo's new local government. The 48 businessmen were financiers for the Syrian government, who thereby switched sides to the rebels.<ref name="cbsnews.com" /> | |||
| === War of attrition === | |||
| Rebels tried to stop government tanks that were advancing from Saif al-Dawla. The Army was also moving in the Sukari district and rebel fighters complained of RPG shortages.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/51271/World/Region/Snipers-versus-tanks-in-Syrias-Aleppo.aspx |title=Snipers versus tanks in Syria's Aleppo |publisher=Ahram |date=25 August 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| The opposition activist group ] reported that the Army was trying to take control of Isaa district while state TV claimed the district had been captured from rebels.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://english.alarabiya.net/articles/2012/08/27/234551.html |title=Syria forces open new front in Damascus to target key rebel areas: activists |work=Al Arabiya|date=27 August 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 28 August 2012, SANA claimed the Children's Hospital was cleared by the Army.<ref>{{cite news|title=Terrorists Suffer Heavy Losses at the Hands of Armed Forces in Several Areas |url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/08/29/438537.htm |agency=Syrian Arab News Agency |date=29 August 2012 |accessdate=30 August 2012}}</ref><ref name="SANA3008">{{cite news|title=Army Forces Carry Out Qualitative Operations against Terrorists in Several Areas |url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/08/30/438728.htm |agency=Syrian Arab News Agency |date=30 August 2012 |accessdate=30 August 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Reports indicated that the Syrian government was indiscriminately attacking civilians at bakeries with artillery rounds and rockets in opposition-controlled areas.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/08/30/us-syria-crisis-rights-idUSBRE87T0HE20120830 |title=Syrian forces bombed people queuing for bread: HRW |publisher=Reuters|date=30 August 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012|first=Erika|last=Solomon}}<br />{{cite news|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/human-rights-watch/syria-government-attackin_b_1843391.html |title=Human Rights Watch: Syria: Government Attacking Bread Lines |publisher=Huffington Post|date=30 August 2012|accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> ] labeled these as ]s, as the only military targets were rebels manning the bakeries and that dozens of civilians were killed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.alarabiya.net/articles/2012/08/31/235232.html |title=Syrian fighters in Aleppo form 'Revolutionary Transitional Council' |publisher=Al Arabiya |date=31 August 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 31 August, rebel fighters announced a major offensive, attacking security compounds and bases.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.voanews.com/content/syrian-rebels-attack-aleppo-security-compounds/1499128.html |title=Syrian Rebels Attack Aleppo Security Compounds |publisher=Voanews.com |date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}<br />{{cite news|author=John Irish |url=http://www.thestar.com/news/world/article/1249556--syrian-rebels-launch-major-assault-in-aleppo-region |title=Syrian rebels launch major assault in Aleppo region |publisher=The Star|date=31 August 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=Toronto}}</ref> Activists claimed that three warplanes were destroyed when rebels attacked Kwers military airport.<ref>{{cite news|last=Carey |first=Glen |url=http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-09-01/syrian-forces-clash-with-rebels-near-airbases-as-fighting-rages.html |title=Syrian Fighting Rages as Rebels Seek to Weaken Air Power |publisher=Bloomberg |date=|accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> The warplanes and artillery continued to fire on rebel positions. SOHR reported that the fighting happened in Sukari, Hanano and Bustan Al Qasr.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gulftoday.ae/portal/c8c8877a-c607-484e-b5e4-7f4ec8f29ba3.aspx |title=Aleppo pounded from ground and air |publisher=Gulf Today|date=2 September 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 3 September, a Syrian general said that the Army controlled the upper area of Saif al-Dawla and that they were trying to take the whole district. AFP reporters visited Salaheddine and confirmed that it was under Army control.<ref name="retake">{{cite web|url=http://www.haveeru.com.mv/world/44335|title=Syria army to retake Aleppo within 10 days |publisher=HaaveruOnline|date=4 September 2012 |accessdate=7 March 2013}}</ref> AFP reported that the Army had captured, two days before, two 10-story malls on either side of the main street in Saif al-Dawla, which had been used by rebel snipers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.kuwaittimes.net/2012/09/04/stench-of-death-in-syrias-second-city/ |title=Stench of death in Syria's second city |publisher=Kuwait Times|date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}{{Dead link|date=August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 6 September, Kurdish activists reported that 21 civilians were killed in the Kurdish neighborhood of ] when the Army shelled the local mosque and nearby areas. Despite not directly witnessing clashes, residents believed that the attack was in retaliation for locals sheltering anti-government civilians from other districts. The ] and ] vowed retaliation.<ref name=deadlyattack>{{cite web|url=http://www.rudaw.net/english/news/syria/5175.html |title=Deadly Attack Claims Many Lives in Aleppo's Kurdish Sector |publisher=Rudaw.net |date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| === Hanano and Midan fighting === | |||
| ] | |||
| On 7 September 2012, rebels attacked the Hanano military base.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2200283/Killed-instant-Moment-Syrian-rebel-checkpoint-takes-direct-hit-captured-powerful-photographs-cost-war.html |title=Killed in an instant: Moment a Syrian rebel checkpoint takes direct hit is captured in powerful photographs that show the cost of war |publisher=Daily Mail|date=9 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> The FSA managed to free 350 detainees when they overran one of the main security buildings.<ref>{{cite news|last=Kirkpatrick |first=David D. |url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/08/world/middleeast/syria.html |title=Syrian Rebels Say They Freed 350 Prisoners, as Others Appeal for Unity |location=Damascus|publisher=Nytimes.com |date=7 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> Those wishing to defect were sent to various fighter positions in the region, while others remained in detention.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://main.omanobserver.om/node/110589 |title=Army deserters freed from underground cells|work=Oman Observer|date=|accessdate=8 October 2012}}{{Dead link|date=August 2013}}</ref> Several brigades were assigned to the attack. The rebels tried to cut strategic supply lines and silence the artillery.<ref>{{cite news|title=Rebel fighters prepare for battle in Aleppo |url=http://www.khaleejtimes.com/kt-article-display-1.asp?xfile=data/middleeast/2012/September/middleeast_September79.xml§ion=middleeast |work=Khaleej Times |date=7 September 2012 |accessdate=8 September 2012}}</ref> The Army retook the base the next day, after a 20-hour battle with heavy casualties on both sides. The base served as a weapons storage depot, a conscript recruitment centre and housed the headquarters of the local branch of the military police and anti-riot police. According to SOHR, rebels stormed the area reserved for conscript recruitment.<ref name="russiaurges">{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2012/Sep-08/187204-syria-army-repels-rebel-attack-on-aleppo-barracks.ashx#axzz25rwoyd2w |title=Battle rages in Aleppo as Russia urges Syria unity |publisher=Daily Star|date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref><ref name="hosted2.ap.org">{{cite web|url=http://hosted2.ap.org/ALDEC/TDWorld/Article_2012-09-08-Syria/id-80a6673d7b0e45aba634cd706ac89240 |title=Fighting intensifies over Syria's largest city |publisher=Hosted2.ap.org |date=17 September 2009 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 8 September, SOHR reported that the Syrian Army advanced in Sa'ad al-Ansari (Iza'a), Saif al-Dawla and Salaheddine, following the withdrawal of rebel forces after heavy shelling.<ref name="hosted2.ap.org" /> 21 Kurdish civilians were killed in the ] neighborhood when Army forces shelled an area near the Marouf mosque, according to Kurdish activists.<ref name=deadlyattack/> | |||
| Aleppo's main water pump was destroyed during the day. The Syrian government and opposition accused the other of the destruction.<ref name="hosted2.ap.org" /> | |||
| On 9 September, a car bomb killed at least 30 civilians<ref>{{cite news|title=Syria Crisis: Aleppo Car Bomb Blast Kills At Least 30 |url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/09/10/aleppo-car-bomb-blast_n_1870248.html |last1=Mroue |first1=Bassem |last2=Keller |first2=Gereg |work=Huffington Post |date=10 September 2012 |accessdate=11 September 2012}}</ref> and wounded more than 64.<ref>{{cite news|title=Car bomb kills 27, wounds 64 in Aleppo |url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2012/Sep-10/187346-car-bomb-kills-27-wounds-64-in-aleppo.ashx#axzz25z82CWBj |work=The Daily Star|date=10 September 2012 |accessdate=10 September 2012}}</ref> The Governor of Aleppo said that the bombing took place near al-Hayat Hospital and the Central Hospital. The bombing caused significant material damage to the two hospitals, al-Nusour al-Zahabiya elementary school and nearby buildings.<ref name="SANA0909">{{cite news|title=Armed Forces Release 30 Kidnapped in Aleppo, Inflict Heavy Losses upon Terrorists in Several Provinces |url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/09/09/440456.htm |date=9 September 2012 |accessdate=9 September 2012}}</ref> The next day the FSA took responsibility for the attack, claiming that the facilities were used by government troops. The attack was executed after the Air Force bombed rebel targets in Hanano, killing dozens.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/09/09/syria-crisis-aleppo-idUSL5E8K90GF20120909 |title=Dozens of casualties in air raid on Aleppo – Syrian activists |publisher=Reuters |date=9 September 2012|accessdate=8 October 2012}}<br />{{cite news|title=Syria conflict: Aleppo car bomb 'kills 17' |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-19539410 |publisher=BBC |date=10 September 2012 |accessdate=10 September 2012}}</ref> | |||
| During the day, another car bomb exploded near Qutaybah Bin Muslim al-Bahili school in al-Shuhada'a neighbourhood. The bomb killed three civilians and injured six.<ref name="Prensa">{{cite news|title=Syria: Blast Increases Death Toll in Aleppo |url=http://www.plenglish.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=543180&Itemid=1 |publisher=] |date=10 September 2012 |accessdate=11 September 2012}}<br />{{cite news|title=Scores reported dead in new Syria clashes |url=http://edition.cnn.com/2012/09/10/world/meast/syria-civil-war/index.html |publisher=CNN |date=11 September 2012 |accessdate=11 September 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 10 September, A three-day rebel assault on the Midan district was defeated and government forces pushed the rebels toward Bostan Pasha.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/52497/World/Region/Syrias-Aleppo-pounded-as-civilian-refuge-targeted.aspx|title=Syria's Aleppo pounded as civilian refuge 'targeted' |publisher=Ahram|date=11 September 2012 |accessdate=7 March 2013}}</ref> At the same time, at least 20 Syrian soldiers were executed by the rebels<ref name="Daily0911">{{cite news|title=Summary executions overshadow clashes in Aleppo |url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2012/Sep-11/187474-summary-executions-overshadow-clashes-in-aleppo.ashx#axzz26ASPiLP8 |work=The Daily Star|date=11 September 2012 |accessdate=11 September 2012}}</ref> after they had been captured at the Hanano barracks.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.alarabiya.net/articles/2012/09/10/237251.html |title=Defected Syrian general Tlass says French agents got him out |publisher=Al Arabiya |date=10 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> The executors were members of the ].<ref name="Daily0911" /> | |||
| On 11 September, SANA reported the Army confiscated 38,000 litres of oil that was supposed to be smuggled out near al-Barkoum Bridge.<ref>{{cite news|title=Armed Forces Inflict Heavy Losses upon Armed Terrorist Groups in Different Provinces |url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/09/11/440905.htm |agency=Syrian Arab News Agency |date=11 September 2012 |accessdate=11 September 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Over the night of 11–12 September, the Army pounded rebel positions, focusing on the southern districts of Bustan al-Qasr, Sukari and Kellaseh and the northeastern districts of Sakhour, Sha'ar and Hanano. One resident said that helicopter gunships strafed the rebel district of Bostan Pasha. Fighting took place at dawn 12 September in ] area, five kilometres north of the airport in response to a rebel attack on the airport; the airport remained fully operational.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syria army, rebels clash near Aleppo airport |url=http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/world/312067/syria-rebels-kill-18-soldiers-at-idlib |work=Bangkok Post |date=12 September 2012 |accessdate=12 September 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 13 September, SOHR reported that 11 people were killed in an airstrike by warplanes in the Helweniyeh neighbourhood.<ref>{{cite news|title=Four killed in Aleppo as Syria fighting rages |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-09-13/middle-east/33816057_1_rebels-syrian-observatory-aleppo |work=Times of India |date=13 September 2012 |accessdate=13 September 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Rebel fighters reportedly advanced into Midan, a highly strategic area that opens the way into the main square.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://main.omanobserver.om/node/109576 |title=Jets pound Aleppo as fighters advance |publisher=Oman Observer|date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}{{Dead link|date=August 2013}}</ref> One resident said that "They were at Bostan Pasha (district) and had already advanced up to Suleyman al-Halabi Street. Now they have entered a street in Midan," after heavy clashes were reported.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.middle-east-online.com/english/?id=54353 |title=Rebels advance in Aleppo |publisher=Middle East Online|date=13 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| The fighting in Midan continued into the next day, centering around two police stations. The rebels captured the stations, were driven out by the military, returned in a counter-attack, and were attacked again.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2012/Sep-14/187836-fighting-rages-for-control-of-aleppos-midan-neighborhood.ashx#axzz26XEsdeKN |title=Fighting rages for control of Aleppo's Midan neighborhood |publisher=Daily Star|date=14 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> SANA claimed that the Army had cleared areas around the Hreitani building, Sports Institute and the Maternity Hospital.<ref>{{cite news|title=Armed Forces Clear Areas in Aleppo City, Destroy DShK-equipped Cars, Kill Terrorists in Several Areas |url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/09/14/441496.htm |agency=Syrian Arab News Agency |date=14 September 2012 |accessdate=15 September 2012}}</ref> The rebels turned St Gregory Church into a battlefield when they tried to progress in Midan, before being forced back by heavy Army resistance.<ref name="emirates247.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.emirates247.com/news/region/religious-buildings-in-crossfire-2012-09-16-1.475598 |title=Religious buildings in crossfire |publisher=Emirates 24/7 |date=16 September 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> | |||
| During the night, it was reported that the Army conducted air-strikes on the two police stations, forcing the rebels to retreat. An air-strike was also conducted against a rebel-held police station in Hanano.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2012/Sep-15/187970-airstrikes-target-aleppo-ahead-of-brahimi-talks.ashx#axzz26XEsdeKN |title=Airstrikes target Aleppo ahead of Brahimi talks |publisher=Daily Star|date=15 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}<br />{{cite web|url=http://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/53534-syrian-army-jets-and-helicopters-batter-aleppo |title=Syrian Army Jets and Helicopters Batter Aleppo |publisher=Naharnet.com |date=14 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> A unit of the Republican guard seized the Ansar Mosque in the rebel-controlled Arqoub district, which was strategically positioned in front of the Hanano military base.<ref name="emirates247.com" /> | |||
| On 15 September, the Army controlled most of al-Midan and set up checkpoints for the first time. Rebels still held some positions on the border between Midan and the rebel-held Bostan Pasha and Arqoub districts. Clashes continued at the entrance of Bostan Pasha<ref name="clashesshelling">{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2012/Sep-15/188038-clashes-shelling-in-aleppo-and-damascus-activists.ashx#axzz26XEsdeKN |title=Clashes, shelling in Aleppo and Damascus: activists |publisher=Daily Star|date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> and another air-strike hit the police post in Hanano.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/52978/World/Region/-killed-in-Syria-clashes,-shelling-NGO.aspx |title=37 killed in Syria clashes, shelling: NGO |publisher=Ahram |date=15 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> Beside fightings in al-Midan, SANA reported that the Army had clashed with rebels in al-Firdous<ref>{{cite news|title=Operations against Terrorists Continue, 26 DShK-Equipped Cars Destroyed, Tens of Terrorists Killed |url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/09/15/441611.htm |agency=Syrian Arab News Agency|date=15 September 2012 |accessdate=15 September 2012}}</ref> and al-Midan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sana.sy/eng/21/2012/09/15/441772.htm |title=Group of Most Wanted Terrorists Eliminated, Terrorists Killed, DShK Equipped Cars Destroyed, Infiltration Attempt Foiled |publisher=SANA |date=15 September 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 16 September, rebel fighters made another attempt to push back into al-Midan. They fired RPGs through a wall encircling an Armenian Orthodox church from their stronghold in Suleiman al-Halabi Street. They then rushed the courtyard of the church but were driven back.<ref name="religious">{{cite web|url=http://english.alarabiya.net/articles/2012/09/16/238365.html |title=Religious buildings caught in Aleppo crossfire |publisher=Al Arabiya |date=16 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> Later, the military announced that the armed forces had completely cleared the al-Midan area<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/09/16/441774.htm |title=Eight Civilians Martyred, 25 Others Injured in Explosive Device Blast in Daraa... Operations against Terrorists Continue|publisher=SANA |date=16 September 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> and taken control of the district. This was confirmed by an AFP correspondent on the ground, although he said that there were a few areas where snipers were still active.<ref name="retakesflashpoint">{{cite web|url=http://www.nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=437468 |title=Syrian army retakes flashpoint Aleppo district |publisher=NOWLebanon|date=17 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}{{Dead link|date=December 2012}}</ref> The military advanced into the rebel-held Arkoub district. Members of the Republican Guards attacked and captured the Ansar mosque. The mosque had strategic importance, located directly in front of the Hanano military base.<ref name="religious" /> | |||
| === Continued clashes === | |||
| ] | |||
| On 18 September 2012, clashes were occurring in Iza'a<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/world/syria-fighting-rages/story-e6frfkui-1226476964042 |title=Syria fighting rages |publisher=News.com.au |date=19 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> and the government-held western Zahra district.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.arabnews.com/fresh-clashes-shelling-damascus-and-aleppo-watchdog |title=Fresh clashes, shelling in Damascus and Aleppo: watchdog |publisher=ArabNews |date=16 September 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> | |||
| The rebels in Aleppo, due to a lack of foreign supplies, were manufacturing their own weapons.<ref>{{cite news|author=C. J. Chivers |url=http://atwar.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/09/19/syrias-dark-horses-with-lathes-makeshift-arms-production-in-aleppo-governorate-part-i/ |title=Syria's Dark Horses, With Lathes: Makeshift Arms Production in Aleppo Governorate, Part I|location=Aleppo|publisher=New York Times |date=19 September 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> The rebels denied receiving any foreign support in the form of weapons. A rebel commander named Abdelkader el-Hadji stated "The weapons we have now we captured from Assad's army. We now have a few tanks. Where do you think we got them? We took them from Assad."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.euronews.com/2012/09/19/aleppo-under-fire/ |title=Abdelkader el-Hadji, Aleppo rebel leader: "We are stronger"|publisher=Euronews|date=19 September 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 20 September, the Syrian Army launched an operation to recapture Bustan al-Qasr.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syrian troops kill 100 "Afghani fighters" in Aleppo: SANA |url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/world/2012-09/20/c_131862993.htm |work=Xinhua|date=20 September 2012 |accessdate=20 September 2012}}</ref> Killings occurred near al-Fidaa al-Arabi school.<ref>{{cite news|title=Regime says 100 Afghans killed in Aleppo |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/middle-east-live/2012/sep/20/syria-iranian-arms-via-iraq-live |work=The Guardian|date=20 September 2012 |accessdate=20 September 2012 |location=London |first1=Matthew |last1=Weaver |first2=Brian |last2=Whitaker}}</ref> SANA said that other clashes occurred in Hanano, al-Fatayes quarter in al-Jadideh and al-Arqoub area and Qadi Askar roundabout. SANA said "heavy losses" were inflicted upon the rebels.<ref>{{cite news|title=100 Afghani Terrorists Killed in Aleppo, DShK-equipped Cars Destroyed in Aleppo and Homs |url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/09/20/442601.htm |agency=Syrian Arab News Agency|date=20 September 2012 |accessdate=20 September 2012}}</ref> Government troops engaged in street battles in the rebel-held Suleiman al-Halabi district, adjacent to al-Midan.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2012/09/20/world/meast/syria-civil-war/index.html |title=Opposition: Dozens killed as Syrian warplanes hit gas station |publisher=CNN|date=21 September 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Opposition forces attempted to unite the two largest rebel groups in Aleppo and the surrounding countryside under one command, so they could better coordinate. Analysts claimed that the stalemate was due to the Army's low morale and an inability to reinforce and resupply troops from Damascus via the highway.<ref>{{cite web|author=Paul Schemm |url=http://news.yahoo.com/rebels-unite-fight-syrias-largest-city-182324423.html |title=Rebels Unite in Fight for Syria's Largest City |publisher=Yahoo |date=20 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> The government discussed the use of ] as a last resort,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/syria-plans-chemical-war-on-own-people/story-fnb64oi6-1226477524650 |title=Syria plans chemical war on own people |publisher=The Australian |date=28 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> and ] reported that the Syrian government had restarted chemical weapons tests in nearby Safira at the end of August.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syria Tested Chemical Weapons Systems, Witnesses Say |url=http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/syria-tested-chemical-weapons-in-desert-in-august-eyewitnesses-say-a-856206.html |agency=Der Spiegel |date=17 September 2012 |accessdate=22 September 2012}}</ref> Aleppo activists reported 37 civilians killed within Aleppo city from the Army's overnight bombardment. | |||
| Over the night of 20/21 September, fighting erupted near the Hanano military base, SOHR said. Bustan al-Qasr was still under attack after the Army attempted to recapture it. The Army also attacked Shakour during the day.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syria army, rebels clash in Aleppo |url=http://www.khaleejtimes.com/kt-article-display-1.asp?xfile=data/middleeast/2012/September/middleeast_September235.xml§ion=middleeast |work=Khaleej Times |date=21 September 2012 |accessdate=21 September 2012}}</ref> Clashes were reported in Shakour roundabout where dozens of rebels had been killed, SANA said.<ref>{{cite news|title=Mass Grave of 25 Bodies for Kidnapped Citizens Found in al-Qadam Area in Damascus |url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/09/21/442792.htm |agency=Syrian Arab News Agency |date=21 September 2012 |accessdate=21 September 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 22 September, SANA said that the Army had recaptured the Third Industrial Institute in Suleiman al-Halabi neighbourhood and destroyed several rebel centres.<ref>{{cite news|title=Forty-One DShK-equipped Cars, Terrorists' Hideouts and Centers Destroyed in Aleppo |url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/09/22/442908.htm |agency=Syrian Arab News Agency |date=22 September 2012 |accessdate=22 September 2012}}</ref> The fighting for Suleimal al-Halabi had started two days before.<ref>{{cite news|title=Snipers sow panic in Aleppo as fighting rages |url=http://www.nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=439268 |publisher=] |date=22 September 2012 |accessdate=22 September 2012}}{{Dead link|date=December 2012}}</ref> The next day, the Syrian army had recaptured Qasr al-Wali restaurant in al-Sayyid Ali which was used as a rebel operations centre, according to SANA.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syrian mortars fall across border in Turkish villages |url=http://www.cnn.com/2012/09/23/world/meast/syria-civil-war/index.html |publisher=CNN |date=23 September 2012 |accessdate=23 September 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 24 September, SANA said the Syrian Army took the Agricultural Institute and areas of al-Quran Mosque and Ali Nasser Agha School in Suleiman al-Halabi. SANA claimed that the Syrian army also recaptured the Christian al-Jdeideh neighbourhood.<ref name="SANA0924">{{cite news|title=Armed Forces Inflict Heavy Losses Upon Terrorists in Several Provinces |url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/09/24/443278.htm |agency=Syrian Arab News Agency|date=24 September 2012 |accessdate=24 September 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 25 September, an Army source told AFP that the Army's operations in Arkoub were finished and that the Army was involved in a door-to-door search for rebels. However, SOHR said that clashes were ongoing in Arkoub.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syrian regime claims control of large Aleppo district |url=http://www.khaleejtimes.com/kt-article-display-1.asp?xfile=data/middleeast/2012/September/middleeast_September275.xml§ion=middleeast |work=Khaleej Times|date=25 September 2012 |accessdate=25 September 2012}}</ref> SANA also reported continuing clashes in Suleiman al-Halabi and that clashes occurred in the Western al-Sakhour area and near al-Hakim Hospital in al-Shaar area.<ref>{{cite news|title=Seven Citizens Injured in Explosive Device Blasts in Martyrs' Sons School in Damascus, Terrorists Killed, DShK-equipped Cars Destroyed in Various Areas|url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/09/25/443492.htm |publisher=Syrian Arab News Agency|date=25 September 2012 |accessdate=25 September 2012}}</ref> | |||
| AFP reported on a meeting of rebel brigade commanders, at which the overall assessment of the situation was that they were in a stalemate due to a lack of ammunition, despite the capture of 5,000 assault rifles and 2,500 rocket launchers during the earlier raid on the Hanano military base.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.france24.com/en/20120927-rebels-low-ammo-debriefed-aleppo-hq |title=Rebels low on ammo debriefed at Aleppo HQ |publisher=France24.com |date=27 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}{{Dead link|date=December 2012}}</ref> | |||
| === September rebel offensive === | |||
| ] | |||
| According to multiple sources, a new opposition offensive began on 27 September 2012, which promised to be "zero hour" in the start of a "decisive battle" to capture the city.<ref name="reuters.com">{{cite news|last=Karouny |first=Mariam |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/09/27/us-syria-crisis-idUSBRE88J0X720120927 |title=Syria rebels say launch "decisive battle" in Aleppo |publisher=Reuters |date=27 September 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> A rebel commander said they wanted to surprise the Army, which had started to creep forward towards the southern neighborhoods. He claimed the Tawhid brigade was enticing the Army forward. The operation included 6,000 fighters of the Tawhid brigade, in addition to brigades such as al-Fatah and Ahfad al-Fatiheen for the Turkmen. Weapons and ammunition captured during the attack on the Hananou base were used. He denied that the FSA had proclaimed "decisive" battles for Aleppo before.<ref>{{cite news|author=Matthew Weaver and Brian Whitaker |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/middle-east-live/2012/sep/27/syria-bloodiest-day-yet-live |title=Syria crisis: rebels hail 'decisive' battle for Aleppo|publisher=Guardian |date=27 September 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> | |||
| The government texted most of the mobile/cellphones in the area that read in part: "You have two choices; either be killed facing the State or the State will kill you to get rid of you, you decide...the game is over...the countdown has begun to expel all militants from neighboring countries..."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/topic/syria/syrian-army-sends-threat-text-mobile-phones|title=Syrian army sends threat by text to mobile phones|publisher=Al Jazeera|date=28 September 2012 |accessdate=6 November 2012}}</ref> The message was sent to all Syrians with subscriptions to the country's two cellphone service providers in the Aleppo area.<ref>{{cite web|author=Zeina Karam |url=http://news.yahoo.com/syria-tells-rebels-mobile-phones-game-over-132140584.html |title=Syria tells rebels on mobile phones: "Game over" |publisher=Yahoo |date=27 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On the second day of the offensive, there was a growing threat of clashes between the rebels and a Kurdish militia believed to be linked to the ]. The rebels, who grew suspicious over some Kurdish militants' ties with the government, also threatened to confront groups they said were linked to the PKK in neighboring Turkey. Tawhid Brigade commander ], requested that the Kurdish militia surrender and "not drag themselves into a losing battle that is not their fight." Shortly thereafter, rebels attempted to advance into the Kurdish-held ] district in the north, where they reported capturing eight Shabbiha militiamen.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite news|last=Solomon |first=Erika |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/09/28/us-syria-crisis-clashes-idUSBRE88R0MJ20120928 |title=Syria rebels struggle to advance in new Aleppo offensive |publisher=Reuters|date=28 September 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> Opposition activists and rebels reported that the Kurdish militia engaged the rebels and fought alongside government troops against the rebel forces in ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.foxnews.com/world/2012/09/28/fierce-clashes-as-syrian-rebels-launch-new-offensive-to-take-aleppo/ |title=Fierce clashes as Syrian rebels launch new offensive to take Aleppo |publisher=Fox News|date=28 September 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> SANA said that district residents were fighting alongside the Syrian army against the rebel offensive.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/09/28/444113.htm |title=Terrorists Suffer Heavy Losses in Several Areas... Terrorists Fire RPGs on Two Mosques in Damascus Countryside|publisher=SANA|date=28 September 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Fighting was reported in central and southern parts of the city. The main points of the rebel attack close to the center were towards the government-held Hamidiya and al-Midan districts.<ref name="reuters.com" /> Residents in previously peaceful neighborhoods told AFP that the violence was "unprecedented", saying "The sound from the fighting has been non-stop," "Everyone is terrified. I have never heard anything like this before."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/09/201292893840251649.html |title='All-out war' rages in Syria's Aleppo |publisher=Al Jazeera|date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> In the south, rebels advanced through the Izaa, Saif al-Dawla and Sukari districts. Rebel commander Abu Furat said that during the fighting a regular army base was taken in Salaheddine and 25 soldiers were killed before they were forced to retreat. According to one rebel, 20 of their fighters were killed and 60 wounded during the fighting.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.alarabiya.net/articles/2012/09/28/240651.html |title=Death toll mounts as Syria rebels claim advances in Aleppo, but no breakthrough |publisher=Al Arabiya|date=28 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref><ref name="aljazeera.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/09/2012928161328889396.html |title=Fierce fighting reported in Syria's Aleppo |publisher=Al Jazeera|date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> FSA forces also reportedly suffered heavy losses in the Bdama neighborhood, where a rebel battalion's first lieutenant was killed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2012/Sep-29/189585-rebels-struggle-to-wrest-ground-in-aleppo.ashx#axzz27aPMQ7z2 |title=Rebels struggle to wrest ground in Aleppo |publisher=Daily Star |date=29 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> Rebels reported that one of their units was surrounded during the clashes, while some other battalions pulled out of the frontline or had never joined the battle.<ref name="ReferenceA" /> | |||
| The leader of the Sham Falcon's brigade claimed the rebel fighters were able to progress in al-Arqoub, Maysaloon, Abdulla al-Jaberi square, Hamdaniya and Jamiliya. He said that the Syrian army was using planes and barrels of explosives, and "there were ferocious battles in Salehaden and al-Ameriya and al-Sukari. It is a guerrilla war. The Syrian army would come forward 10 metres, we would move forward 50 metres and then if we need to pull back, we pull back."<ref>{{cite news|author=Matthew Weaver and Brian Whitaker |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/sep/28/syria-crisis-aleppo-battle-live|title=Syria crisis: fight for Aleppo|publisher=Guardian |date=28 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> SOHR's Abdel Rahman said, "Neither the regime nor the rebels are able to gain a decisive advantage."<ref name="aljazeera.com" /> | |||
| Rebels claimed to have stormed a government radio station, while government war planes bombed the city's outskirts. A major fire engulfed Aleppo's medieval markets, destroying an estimated 700 to 1,000 shops. A major tourist attraction, the covered markets were among the largest in the Middle East. The rebels blamed the fire on army shelling.<ref name="blogs.aljazeera.com">{{cite news|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/09/2012929134847878682.html |title=Ancient souk burns as fighting rages in Syria|work=Al Jazeera|date=29 September 2012|accessdate=6 November 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/09/29/syria-crisis-idUSL5E8KT0RG20120929 |title=Ancient souk burns as fighting rages in Syria's Aleppo |publisher=Reuters |date=29 September 2012|accessdate=8 October 2012 |first=Erika |last=Solomon}}</ref> According to SANA, clashes took place in al Kalisah, al Firdous, Bab al-Nairab, Bab al-Hadid and Bustan al-Qasr.<ref name="ReferenceB">{{cite web|url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/09/29/444228.htm |title=Chasing Terrorist Groups Continues in Various Areas, Terrorists' Infiltration Attempt from Lebanon Thwarted|publisher=SANA |date=29 September 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> According to the ], the rebel offensive had dissolved in a street fight after the Army tenaciously defended its positions. Irish Times and ] reported that some rebels units were surrounded and others retreated even before entering the city.<ref>{{cite news|last=Solomon |first=Erika |url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/2012/09/28/uk-syria-crisis-idUKBRE88R14A20120928 |title=Syria rebels struggle to advance in Aleppo offensive|work=Reuters|date=28 September 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> According to SANA, the Army was in full control of al-Amiriyah and most of Tal az-Zarazir streets.<ref name="ReferenceB" /> SOHR said that clashes were taking place in al-Arqoub and Aziziya,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/world/2012/0929/1224324601528.html |title=Syrian loyalists repel rebel attack on Aleppo|publisher=The Irish Times |date=29 September 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> while Salaheddine had once again become a focal point.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-19775530 |title=Syria conflict: Aleppo's souk burns as battles rage |publisher=BBC News|date=29 September 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On the third day of the offensive, an activist claimed to ] that rebels had taken control of at least four neighbourhoods and rebels were reported to have fired mortars at al-Nayrab Military Airport, damaging two helicopters and a main runway.<ref name="marketburns">{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2012/09/29/world/meast/syria-civil-war/index.html |title=Syrian army, rebels fight for control of Aleppo; marketplace burns |publisher=CNN|date=30 September 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> The Syrian government denied that helicopters were destroyed, claiming that those reports were an attempt to raise rebel morale.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/09/30/444447.htm |title=Official Source: News about Destroying Helicopters at al-Nairab Airport Pitiful Attempt to Raise Terrorists' Morale|publisher=SANA|date=30 September 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> According to Sana, the Army targeted positions and inflicted losses near the Infirmary and the Sport Institute in Bustan al-Basha and near the Cotton Gins area, east and north of al-Jandoul. Another operation is mentioned near the crossroads of Baleh town, west of Aleppo, with rebel casualties.<ref name="marketburns" /><ref name="ReferenceC">{{cite web|url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/09/30/444374.htm |title=Seventeen Citizens Martyred in Terrorists' Shelling on Village in Homs, Terrorists and Their Vehicles Targeted in Aleppo|publisher=SANA|date=30 September 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> SANA also said clashes occurred in Qastal Harami, al-Sayyed Ali and Maysaloun Hospital areas. A Turkish fighter, who led an armed rebel unit and its members was reported dead in clashes with the army in al-Tananeer Square.<ref name="ReferenceC" /> | |||
| Opposition fighters from the Tawhid brigade and other northern brigades announced that they had partially taken over the Jandoul roundabout in Aleppo. Fighters also said 15 government soldiers were killed and three tanks were destroyed.<ref name="blogs.aljazeera.com" /> | |||
| However, overall, the rebel offensive had stalled<ref name="shellsrock">{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/breaking-news/violence-rages-around-aleppo-souks/story-e6frf7k6-1226486228497 |title=Shells rock rebel bastions in Damascus |publisher=Herald Sun|date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> and opposition fighters were struggling to hold on to their positions under heavy artillery fire.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkishweekly.net/news/142978/al-assad-visits-aleppo-orders-to-%E2%80%98crush%E2%80%99-rebels-.html |title=Al-Assad Visits Aleppo, Orders to 'Crush' Rebels |publisher=Turkish Weekly|date=3 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> One rebel described the current situation as 'boring' with the battle becoming yet another stalemate.<ref>{{cite news|last=Solomon |first=Erika |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/10/18/us-syria-crisis-snipers-idUSBRE89H0KK20121018 |title=In Aleppo, Syrian rebels bogged down in sniper war |publisher=Reuters |date=18 October 2012|accessdate=30 October 2012}}</ref> Rebels blamed the stalemate on their low ammunition and inferior firepower.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5gOYEgqfdJj2eY-sfeZmi-13wds8A?docId=CNG.dbc892dd707cd35467a975f24949b937.91 |title=Rebels low on ammo debriefed at Aleppo HQ 27 September 2012 |publisher=Google |date=27 September 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| === Aleppo Square bombings, Old City and Eastern Aleppo fighting === | |||
| ]]] | |||
| On 1 October 2012, SOHR said that more than 40 were either killed or injured by bombs in the Karm al-Jabal neighborhood in the al-Sha'ar area. Several neighborhoods were bombed including Shakur and Salaheddine. The next day, rebels claimed to have repulsed attacks in Hanano,<ref>{{cite web|last=Khoury |first=Jack |url=http://www.haaretz.com/news/middle-east/syrian-media-raps-hamas-leadership-for-abandoning-assad-regime-1.467873 |title=Syrian media raps Hamas leadership for abandoning Assad regime|publisher=Haaretz|date=2 October 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> and that they were in control of most of the Old City in the face of heavy artillery fire.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.euronews.com/newswires/1677070-syrias-assad-tours-aleppo-orders-more-troops-into-battle-paper/ |title=Militant group Al-Nusra claim suicide bombings in Aleppo|publisher=euronews |date=|accessdate=8 October 2012}}{{Dead link|date=December 2012}}</ref> The rebels appeared to be moving towards the city center.<ref>{{cite news|last=Barnard |first=Anne |url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/02/world/middleeast/fighting-spreads-through-aleppo-as-services-vanish.html |title=Fighting and Chaos Spread Through Syrian City, as Services Vanish|location=Aleppo|publisher=New York Times|date=1 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| The pro-government Lebanese ''Al-Diyar'' newspaper announced that Assad had flown to Aleppo by helicopter at dawn and had ordered 30,000 additional government troops and 2,000 personnel carriers from Hama province (army units 5 and 6).<ref>. ''Hurriyet Daily News''. 3 October 2012.<br />{{cite news|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/10/02/syria-crisis-aleppo-idUSL6E8L26UD20121002 |title=Syria's Assad tours Aleppo, orders more troops into battle-paper |publisher=Reuters |date=2 October 2012|accessdate=8 October 2012}}<br />{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/international/article3960679.ece |title=Syria army steps up operations in Aleppo, Damascus |publisher=Hindu Businessline|date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}<br /></ref> SANA made no mention of any visit.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/2012/10/02/uk-syria-crisis-aleppo-idUKBRE8910FF20121002 |title=Syria's Assad tours Aleppo, orders more troops into battle – paper|work=Reuters|date=2 October 2012 |accessdate=8 October 2012|first=Oliver|last=Holmes}}</ref> | |||
| ] after the suicide bomb attacks of 3 October 2012]] | |||
| On 3 October, three ] ]s exploded at the eastern corner of the central ] killing 34. More than 122 people were reported to be heavily injured.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.el-balad.com/280055 |title=Sada el-Balad |publisher=El-balad.com |date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> Islamist militant group Jabhat Al-Nusra claimed responsibility.<ref>{{cite news|title=Militant group Al-Nusra claim suicide bombings in Aleppo|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/10/04/us-syria-crisis-aleppo-idUSBRE8930BE20121004|accessdate=8 October 2012|work=Reuters|date=4 October 2012}}</ref> The bombs targeted the Officers' club and the nearby buildings of the Touristic Hotel and the historic Jouha Café. The hotel received major damage while the café was entirely destroyed. A small building within the Officers' club was ruined as well.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-10-03/dozens-killed-in-aleppo-bomb-blasts/4294016 |title=ABC News:Dozens killed in Aleppo bomb blasts |publisher=Abc.net.au |date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Government troops killed two more would-be suicide bombers before they could detonate their explosives. Syrian state TV showed the bodies of three men wearing army uniforms at the bomb site. One of them appeared to be wearing an explosive belt with a timer tied to his wrist.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/oct/03/syria-suicide-bombs-34-aleppo |title=Syria 'suicide bombers' kill 34 and injure 120 in Aleppo|publisher=Guardian |date=3 October 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012|location=London}}</ref> Later, al-Qaeda-linked extremist militant group the Al-Nusra Front<ref>{{cite news|url=http://security.blogs.cnn.com/2012/10/04/sources-pro-al-qaeda-group-steps-up-suicide-bombings-in-syria/ |title=Sources: Pro Al Qaeda Group Steps Up Suicide Bombings in Syria |publisher=CNN|date=4 October 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> claimed responsibility. The group stated that it was carried out by suicide car bombers, followed by attackers disguised as Army soldiers.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2012/10/03/world/meast/syria-civil-war/index.html |title=Syria: Scores killed in suicide blasts in Aleppo |publisher=CNN|date=4 October 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> The UN Security Council unanimously condemned the bombings as a "terrorist attack".<ref>{{cite news|last=Charbonneau |first=Louis |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/10/05/us-syria-crisis-un-idUSBRE89411B20121005 |title=U.N. Security Council condemns "terrorist attacks" in Aleppo|publisher=Reuters|date=5 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Rebel fighters attacked a political intelligence branch as well as an old vegetable market where a large number of troops were posted, according to the Observatory. Overnight, rebels reportedly destroyed two tanks in the city.<ref name="carbomb">{{cite web|url=http://www.thenews.com.pk/article-70098-Car-bombs-kill-48-in-Syrias-Aleppo|title=Car bombs kill 48 in Syria's Aleppo|publisher=Thenews.com|accessdate=3 October 2012}}</ref> The Army battled rebels in several neighbourhoods, including Saif al-Dawla and Sakhur. It also shelled the Bab al-Nayrab, Salaheddine, Mashhad, Bab al-Nasr and Sakhur districts. The fighting led to the destruction of an Army tank and the killing of several Army troops.<ref name="blogs.aljazeera.com" /> | |||
| ] | |||
| On 5 October, state-run Syrian TV said that government forces "cleansed Sakhour of terrorists and mercenaries."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/10/2012105104032357762.html |title=Syrian forces pound Homs and Aleppo|publisher=Al Jazeera|date=5 October 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> After days of fighting, an AP correspondent said that the rebels lost control of several buildings in Saif al-Dawla, after close-quarter combat.<ref>{{cite web|last=Laub |first=Karin |url=http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Syrian+regime+opens+urban+warfare+front/7352617/story.html |title=Syrian regime opens new urban warfare front |publisher=Vancouver Sun|date=5 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}{{Dead link|date=August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| Meanwhile rebel fighters claimed to have made advances in the strategic district of Salaheddine, claiming that they had taken the square, lost it and then retaken it after a lengthy battle.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOTvyUgj-GM&feature=player_embedded |title=Syrian rebels hold their position in Aleppo |publisher=YouTube |date=|accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> | |||
| An AFP correspondent reported intense street battles in Arkoub district. The insurgents had occupied health facilities and schools as makeshift bases. There were signs of strain from troops, with one officer admitting "the battle for Arkoub is as tough as the struggle for Hanano" last month. One soldier said he had not returned home once, to Homs, in three months.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-19849748|title=Turkey returns fire 'after fresh Syria shelling'|publisher=BBC|accessdate=3 December 2012|date=5 October 2012}}</ref> The neighborhoods of Bustan al-Qasr, al-Helk and al-Haydariya were bombed by Army forces. | |||
| On 6 October, Syrian state television said that four Turks were among a group of foreign fighters that the army had killed there.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jgFCrcHxgrLkGZMw5wi8MYt1TGLQ?docId=CNG.90318ac60ef84f9c67aafce561ffaa43.741 |title=AFP: Fifty dead as Syria rebels take border town |publisher=Google|date=|accessdate=8 October 2012}}</ref> Iranian Press TV claimed that the Army had captured the Shakour district, but the FSA said they repulsed the assault after heavy clashes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.haaretz.com/news/middle-east/syrian-rebels-reportedly-capture-president-bashar-assad-s-cousin-1.468579 |title=Syrian rebels reportedly capture President Bashar Assad's cousin|publisher=Haaretz|date=6 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| ] | |||
| An AFP correspondent said that the ] was continuously bombing the Bab al-Hadid, Arkub and Shaar neighborhoods that surrounded the besieged Hanano barracks. Locals called it the worst fighting since the battle began.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thenews.com.pk/Todays-News-1-136355-Fierce-clashes-rage-in-Aleppo-Damascus |title=Fierce clashes rage in Aleppo, Damascus |publisher=The News|date=8 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> The ] found a cache of ammunition manufactured in Ukraine and addressed to the ]. The ammunition was stored in a mosque used by the rebels. Saudi and Qatari were suspected of supplying ammunition to the rebels but not heavier weapons, such as anti-aircraft missiles, due to American concerns about extremists obtaining such equipment.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-19874256 |title='Saudi weapons' seen at Syria rebel base|publisher=BBC |date=8 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}<br />{{cite news|last=Worth |first=Robert F. |url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/world/middleeast/citing-us-fears-arab-allies-limit-aid-to-syrian-rebels.html |title=Citing U.S. Fears, Arab Allies Limit Syrian Rebel Aid|location=Syria, Saudi Arabia, Qatar |publisher=New York Times|date=6 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| {{See also|Battle of Maarrat al-Nu'man}} | |||
| On 9 October, rebels claimed control of the strategic town of ], a town on the Aleppo/Damascus highway from where many of the Army's reinforcements were joining the battle. Seizing the town was believed to be part of a campaign to isolate the Army.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/10/2012109224646736885.html |title=Syrian rebels claim control of strategic town|publisher=Al Jazeera|date=4 October 2012 |accessdate=13 October 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 10 October, rebels launched an attack against the ] where government forces were based. During four hours of fighting rebels tried to blast holes in the walls of the mosque with RPGs before storming the site but were repelled, leaving rebel snipers to attack the government forces.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hOR2yO2SyW3yprMGs4TyaBGB301Q?docId=CNG.193bd973fc839385e5b1011924952f86.71 |title=Syria rejects truce as rebels intercept reinforcements|publisher=Google|date=10 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> They had launched an earlier attack against the mosque on 8 October but government forces in the Citadel thwarted them.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thenews.com.pk/Todays-News-1-136353-Syria-rebels-braced-for-long-haul-in-Aleppo |title=Syria rebels braced for long haul in Aleppo|publisher=The News|date=8 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| The government bombarded the districts of Haidariyeh, Sukari and Fardoss at dawn, as fierce fighting broke out in Sakhur, Suleiman al-Halabi and Sheikh Khodr.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.timeslive.co.za/world/2012/10/12/106-soldiers-killed-in-syria-as-rebels-go-on-attack |title=106 soldiers killed in Syria as rebels go on attack|publisher=Times Live|date=12 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> One hospital in a rebel area admitted 100 patients a day with less than 10 doctors. Veterinarians were used in some cases given a shortage of human doctors.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-19914444 |title=Aleppo: Treating trauma on the frontline|publisher=BBC|date=11 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 12 October, rebel forces seized an air defense base east of the city, near al-Tana village and Koris military airport.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syria rebels capture air defense base, fight to hold highway|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/10/12/us-syria-crisis-idUSBRE88J0X720121012|accessdate=12 October 2012|work=Reuters|date=12 October 2012}}</ref> After the capture, government air-strikes destroyed most of the rockets and radars at the base.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-19928136 |title=Syria: Rebels 'seize air defence base' near Aleppo |publisher=BBC |date=12 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> By the end of the day, the rebels were preparing to withdraw, fearing more strikes.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/feedarticle/10480395 |title=Syria activists say rebels seize air defense base |publisher=Guardian |date= 23 January 2008|accessdate=29 August 2013 |location=London}}</ref> | |||
| On 13 October, a large explosion struck the ] office followed by heavy clashes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/10/2012101362830407744.html |title=Syria violence rocks Damascus and Aleppo|publisher=Al Jazeera|date=13 October 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> The Directorate is considered important given Assad's role as commander of the Syrian Air Force in the 1960s.<ref name="espionageinfo1">{{cite web|url=http://www.espionageinfo.com/Sp-Te/Syria-Intelligence-and-Security.html |title=Syria, Intelligence and Security |publisher=Espionageinfo.com |accessdate=13 October 2008| archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20081013023339/http://www.espionageinfo.com/Sp-Te/Syria-Intelligence-and-Security.html| archivedate=13 October 2008| deadurl=no}}</ref> Rebels also broke into the Umayyad Mosque by using an explosive charge to attack government forces stationed there.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gulf-times.com/site/topics/article.asp?cu_no=2&item_no=537239&version=1&template_id=37&parent_id=17 |title=Syria warplane downed, clashes rage in mosque|publisher=Gulf Times |date=14 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}{{Dead link|date=December 2012}}</ref> | |||
| ] | |||
| On 14 October, the Umayyad Mosque was set on fire after Army forces withdrew from it the previous day. Rebels destroyed the southern entrance to get direct access into the internal yard.<ref name="cnn1013">{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2012/10/13/world/meast/syria-civil-war/ |title=Rebels claim downing of Syrian jet |publisher=CNN|date=13 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> Later, it was confirmed that the Army's counter-attack recaptured the mosque.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-19946958 |title=Syria conflict: Brahimi seeks Iran help to secure truce |publisher=BBC |date=15 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> The mosque sustained the most damage since an 1822 earthquake struck.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.yahoo.com/historic-mosque-burned-ancient-syrian-city-205047402.html|title=Historic mosque burned in ancient Syrian city |publisher=Yahoo|date=15 October 2012 |accessdate=7 March 2013}}</ref> | |||
| A MiG fighter, believed to be a ], was shot down on 15 October. The pilot ejected and was taken prisoner by rebel forces.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.turkishweekly.net/news/143687/free-syrian-army-shoots-down-mig-war-jet-.html |title=Free Syrian Army Shoots Down MIG War Jet |publisher=Turkish Weekly|date=16 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 21 October, "a suicide car bomber" caused a blast in the New Syriac quarter wounding several people and damaging the Syrian-French hospital and al-Kalima school.<ref name="SANA2110">{{cite news|title=Armed Forces Target Terrorists in Aleppo, Foil Terrorists' Infiltration Attempts from Lebanon |url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/10/21/448281.htm |agency=] |date=21 October 2012 |accessdate=22 October 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Car bombs kill 13 in Damascus' Old City and Aleppo |url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/world/blast-hits-damascus-at-least-10-dead/story-fnd134gw-1226500302322 |work=Herald Sun |date=21 October 2012 |accessdate=21 October 2012}}</ref> | |||
| === October rebel offensive, Kurdish-Rebel fighting === | |||
| On 25 October 2012, some 200 rebels moved into Ashrafiyeh district in the Kurdish-controlled area of ]. It was the first time that substantial government or rebel forces moved into Kurdish areas. The area had been regarded as neutral with Kurdish militia clashing with both rebel and army units. The rebel unit responsible was allegedly the Liwa al-Tawhid brigade who reportedly told the locals that ''We are here to spend Eid with you''. Ashrafiyeh is important as a part of the city heights and controls routes between the north and south of Aleppo.<ref name="kurdisharea">{{cite web|url=http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/1704757/Syrian-rebels-take-Aleppo-Kurdish-area |title=Syrian rebels take Aleppo Kurdish area |publisher=Sbs.com.au |date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}<br />{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/10/201210258572215445.html |title=Syria violence flares ahead of possible truce |publisher=Al Jazeera |date=|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> Previous rebel attempts to move into the district had been repelled.<ref name="ReferenceA" /> Rebels were reported to have taken control of the Syriac quarter.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://english.alarabiya.net/articles/2012/10/25/245909.html |title=Russia says U.S. coordinates weapon deliveries to Syria rebels |publisher=Al Arabiya |date=25 October 2012 |accessdate=30 October 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Analyst ] said that according to reports he had received, the Syrian army had retreated from the Aleppo center, allowing the FSA to control the central Christian neighborhoods of Jedida and Qadime. The claims were unverified due to a lack of reporters on the ground.<ref name="crucialgains">{{cite news|author=Matthew Weaver and Brian Whitaker |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/middle-east-live/2012/oct/25/syria-conflict-ceasefire-doubts-live#block-50892e83b5794584b1c13f66 |title=Rebels said to make crucial gains in Aleppo |publisher=Guardian |date=25 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> Locals from the Armenian district of Al-Zukur said that the FSA had entered their district leading to clashes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.am/eng/news/126130.html |title=Clashes continue in Armenian-populated district of Aleppo |publisher=News.am |date=13 June 2009 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| An aide to colonel ] confirmed the reports of the FSA's recent advances and claimed that the rebels captured the Salaheddine district.<ref>{{cite web|last=Surk |first=Barbara |url=http://seattletimes.com/html/nationworld/2019516092_apmlsyria.html |title=Activists: Rebels make advances in Aleppo |publisher=Seattle Times|date=25 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> The spokesman of the Liwaa al Shabhah brigade claimed that the FSA had limited the Syrian army to five districts.<ref name="guardian1">{{cite news|author=Matthew Weaver and Brian Whitaker |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/middle-east-live/2012/oct/25/syria-conflict-ceasefire-doubts-live#block-50892e83b5794584b1c13f66 |title=Syria accepts ceasefire with conditions |publisher=Guardian |date=25 October 2012 |accessdate=30 October 2012 |location=London}}</ref> It was unclear whether the rebels had the strength to hold the new areas<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.foxnews.com/world/2012/10/25/top-un-official-urges-syrian-rebels-assad-regime-to-observe-cease-fire/ |title=Syria regime agrees to holiday cease-fire amid fighting in Aleppo |publisher=Fox News|date=25 October 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> and there were indications that the rebels had been forced out of some areas by late afternoon, with one resident saying that the government forces were fighting fiercely.<ref>{{cite web|last=Fielding |first=Abigail |url=http://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/0/68a1a246-1eb5-11e2-be82-00144feabdc0.html#axzz2AKImfaox |title=Battle for Aleppo intensifies |publisher=Financial Times |date=25 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 25 October, one FSA fighter told the Guardian that their main focus was on security branches the Syrian army used as bases. He said that rebels were in the process of besieging the Midan security branch and stopped Army reinforcements from getting to the ] which had been under FSA siege for 10 days. The fighter claimed that the Ashrafiya take-over by the rebels was the result of a deal with the PKK.<ref name="guardian1" /> | |||
| SANA said that the Army had recaptured the Syrian-French Hospital and reported several clashes stating that the Army had inflicted "heavy losses" upon the rebels.<ref>{{cite news|title=Terrorists Chased and Killed in different Syrian Provinces |url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/10/25/449064.htm |agency=] |date=25 October 2012 |accessdate=26 October 2012}}</ref> Some rebels believe that the increased talk of a truce from the Syrian government was an effort to stop rebel gains and to use the four days of Eid to reinforce their forces.<ref>{{cite news|last=Macfarquhar |first=Neil |url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/26/world/middleeast/syrian-military-declares-four-day-holiday-truce.html|title=Syrian Military Declares Holiday Truce, but Will Respond to Rebel Attacks|location=Syria |publisher=The New York Times |date=25 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Later, a rebel commander claimed that the FSA were fighting in Arqoub, Siryan, Zahra and Firqan districts and had secured Suleiman al Halabi. Local activists claimed fierce clashes were occurring around the Airport and that rebels were trying to besiege the Nairab base just south of the city.<ref>{{cite news|agency=Associated Press |url=http://www.foxnews.com/world/2012/10/25/top-un-official-hopes-syria-cease-fire-will-take-place-but-no-guarantees-it/ |title=Syrian regime says it will honor 4-day holiday truce, as rebels gain ground in Aleppo |publisher=Fox News |date=26 October 2012 |accessdate=7 March 2013}}</ref> The center of Aleppo was reported to be in rebel hands with snipers in positions to block counterattacks. The retreat from the city center was seen as either a government trap or signs that the rebel tactic of attacking the government's supply lines was working. Another question was whether the government was prepared to bomb Christian and Kurdish areas, like other rebel-held areas in the past, and risk dragging them into the rebel camp.<ref>{{cite news|author=Sebastian Usher |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-20087416 |title=Syria army 'to observe ceasefire' over Eid al-Adha |publisher=BBC |date=25 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> Rebels who had taken the predominately Christian areas and Jdeidah, where ] once stayed, reported intimidation by the rebels who feared retaliation from both sides in the conflict. The rebels also claimed to have had encircled the ].<ref>{{cite news|last=Spencer |first=Richard |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/9634345/Syria-Bashar-al-Assad-agrees-to-ceasefire-but-rebels-advance-in-Aleppo.html |title=Syria: Bashar al-Assad agrees to ceasefire, but rebels advance in Aleppo |publisher=Telegraph|date=25 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> | |||
| Rebel activists claimed that Kurdish forces had either reached agreement with rebels to allow their rapid advance or assisted the rebels by simply leaving their checkpoints overnight.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/holiday-cease-fire-announced-in-syria/2012/10/25/8d262e60-1ec0-11e2-8817-41b9a7aaabc7_story_1.html |title=Skirmishes reported as holiday cease-fire begins in Syria|publisher=Washington Post|date=26 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012|first1=Liz|last1=Sly|first2=Ahmed|last2=Ramadan}}</ref> One rebel spokesman claimed that Kurdish forces might join the Free Syrian Army.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2012/10/25/world/meast/syria-civil-war/index.html |title=Syria agrees to cease-fire, sort of|publisher=CNN |date=26 October 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| It was reported that government tanks moved into Faisal street, the main thoroughfare running the length of the Christian districts of al-Jadide and Qadime, forcing the rebels to make a tactical retreat back into the Kurdish Ashrafiyya district. The tanks positioned themselves at Ashrafiyeh district the next day, leading some to fear the possibility of the district being shelled, although the tanks did not open fire.<ref>{{cite news|author=Matthew Weaver and Brian Whitaker |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/middle-east-live/2012/oct/26/syria-eid-ceasefire-live |title=Syria conflict: Eid al-Adha ceasefire – live updates |publisher=Guardian |date=26 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> However, Kurdish activists claimed that army howitzers shelled Ashrafiyya, leaving 15 people dead including 8 Kurds. Two journalists were among the 15 wounded in the attack. Kurdish activists also accused the Syrian Government of shelling Kurdish buses that were coming from Erfin to Aleppo earlier in the month, causing 15 deaths and 19 injuries.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://supportkurds.org/news/thursday-25-october-2012/#more-13466 |title=Thursday 25 October 2012 : Support Kurds in Syria |publisher=Supportkurds.org |date=26 October 2012 |accessdate=30 October 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 26 October, the Syrian authorities accused rebels of breaking the Eid truce. SANA said that rebels opened fire on the Army in several places while the Army responded with fire as well inflicting "heavy losses" upon the rebels.<ref>{{cite news|title=Terrorist Set Off Two Car Bombs in Damascus and Daraa, Attack Citizens in Damascus Countryside, Violate Ceasefire in Aleppo |url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/10/26/449338.htm |last=Sabbagh |first=H. |agency=] |date=26 October 2012 |accessdate=26 October 2012}}</ref> Mid-day, rebels tried to overrun a checkpoint near the Mohasab army base in the northeast Seryan district. Meanwhile, AFP reported that the Syrian army was guarding the entrance to the Old City.<ref>{{cite news|title=Eid brings little holiday joy to Aleppo |url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5ixQetIdwc3J9P4QOln5LNNWM8lyg?docId=CNG.d68d286627467518d699f56443cbb896.9d1 |last=Kassargian |first=Sarkis |agency=] |date=26 October 2012 |accessdate=26 October 2012}}</ref> It was also reported that government troops had expelled rebels from the Armenian area of Al-Zukur.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.am/eng/news/126273.html |title=Syrian government army removes all rebels from Aleppo's Armenian-populated district |publisher=News.am |date=13 June 2009 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Rebels clashed with Kurdish militias that tried to stop them entering the ] neighourhood. 19 rebels and 5 Kurdish fighters were killed.<ref name="kurdishmilitiamen">{{cite news|url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/oct/27/syrian-rebels-kurds-clash-aleppo|title=Syrian rebels and Kurdish militiamen clash in Aleppo |publisher=Guardian |date=27 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref><ref name="discuss">{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2012/10/29/world/meast/syria-kurdish-militia/ |title=Syria rebels, Kurdish militia discuss cease-fire |publisher=CNN |date=30 October 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> One Kurdish leader said that they had ''"a gentlemen's agreement"'' with the rebels that they would not enter Kurdish areas and that the rebels had violated it when they entered Ashrafiyeh.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.yahoo.com/syria-activists-report-clashes-despite-cease-fire-074210509.html |title=Syria activists report clashes despite cease-fire |publisher=Yahoo|date=|accessdate=7 March 2013}}</ref> According to a report by activists who organised a Kurdish protest at a PYD militant checkpoint between the Kurdish areas of Ashrafiyeh and ], rebel fighters opened fire on the protesters, leaving eight dead and five wounded. Overall, PYD stated that 10 Kurds were killed during the clashes, including three fighters.<ref name="kurdishmilitiamen" /> SOHR put the Kurdish toll at 11, for a total of 30 dead, when including the 19 rebels. 200 people were kidnapped or captured as a result of the fighting. The PYD captured 20 rebel fighters, while the rebels detained 180 Kurds, civilians and fighters.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.khaleejtimes.com/kt-article-display-1.asp?xfile=data/middleeast/2012/October/middleeast_October346.xml§ion=middleeast |title=Fears of new front as Syria rebels clash with Kurds |publisher=Khaleejtimes.com |date=27 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> SOHR said that the PYD was still in control of the Ashrafiyeh neighbourhood. A later PYD statement blamed both the Army and the FSA for the violence. "We have chosen to remain neutral, and we will not take sides in a war that will only bring suffering and destruction to our country," the statement said.<ref>{{cite news|title=Fears of new front as Syria rebels clash with Kurds |url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5gLlvuj-tB8QlRejs5vScUWgY1IVQ?docId=CNG.5e118ae81608e63640977de861396ba9.8c1 |last=Assir |first=Serene |agency=] |date=27 October 2012 |accessdate=27 October 2012}}</ref> The rebels said that the clashes started after their forces attacked a security compound in Ashrafieh, which was defended by both PKK fighters and government troops.<ref>{{cite news|last=Yacoub |first=Khaled |url=http://in.reuters.com/article/2012/10/28/syria-idINDEE89R06H20121028 |title=Syria airforce bombs cities, truce 'practically over' |publisher=Reuters |date=28 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> A new report, several days later, put the combatant death toll at 30 rebels and 15 PYD fighters.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/fighting-erupts-between-syrian-rebels-and-kurds/2012/10/31/fedd811a-239e-11e2-92f8-7f9c4daf276a_story_1.html |title=Fighting erupts between Syrian rebels and Kurds |publisher=Washington Post|date=31 October 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012|first=Liz|last=Sly}}</ref> | |||
| On 27 October, SANA said that the rebels attacked the water pumping station in Sleiman al-Halabi neighbourhood cutting water from the western part of the city.<ref name="SANA2810">{{cite news|title=General Command of the Army and the Armed Forces: Terrorist Groups Continued Committing Breaches of Ceasefire on Saturday in Several Provinces |url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/10/27/449431.htm |last1=Said |first=H. |last2=Sabbagh |first2=H. |agency=] |date=27 October 2012 |accessdate=28 October 2012}}</ref> Rebels were accused of kidnapping Lebanese TV journalist Fidaa Itani because his coverage was considered "not suitable" for "the Syrian revolution and revolutionaries".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Local-News/2012/Oct-27/192907-lebanons-lbci-says-journalist-kidnapped-in-syria.ashx#axzz2AZ4X5oXh |title=Syrian rebels 'detain' Lebanese reporter: TV|publisher=The Daily Star|date=27 October 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> He was later freed by the rebels and left for Turkey.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Local-News/2012/Oct-31/193386-syrian-rebels-say-reporter-itani-to-be-freed-in-hours.ashx#axzz2Aum28eFo |title=Lebanese reporter Itani now in Turkey, minister says|publisher=The Daily Star|date=8 August 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Rebels fanning out West of Aleppo were besieging the Zahra air intelligence base and came under fire from the Ramoussa artillery base which they assaulted from the south. A rebel spokesperson claimed that the Zahra and Ramoussa bases were crucial for the regimes defenses given their lack of manpower.<ref>{{cite news|last=Spencer |first=Richard |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/9644080/Syria-rebels-battle-for-control-of-regime-military-bases.html |title=Syria: rebels battle for control of regime military bases |publisher=Telegraph |date=30 October 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012 |location=London}}</ref> | |||
| In a new round of clashes in the Kurdish areas, rebels opened fire on Kurdish protesters, killing three of them.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://supportkurds.org/news/tuesday-30-october-2012/|title=Tuesday 30 October 2012|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| The battle for the Zahra air intelligence base was complicated by the possible presence of civilian prisoners.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2012/10/31/world/meast/syria-civil-war |title=China urges 'political resolution' to Syria crisis|publisher=CNN |date=31 October 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| === Rebel capture of bases and fighting in West === | |||
| {{See also|Siege of Base 46}} | |||
| On 1 November 2012, a bakery was bombed in Atareb killing at least 12 people. The bakery was important since it delivered bread to 40 towns near Aleppo. The government bombed three other bakeries in and around Aleppo at Kafar Hamra, Ramoon and Qadi Askar. These bakeries were responsible for most of the bread in the area.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/topic/syria/syrian-regime-forces-destroy-bakery-aleppo-killing-12-people |title=Syrian regime forces destroy bakery in Aleppo, killing 12 people|publisher=Al Jazeera |date=1 November 2012|accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 2 November, SOHR incorrectly reported the execution of Shah Ali Abdu, also known as Nujin Derik, the Kurdish militia leader for Aleppo, whom the rebels captured while she was on a mission to return the bodies of rebel fighters killed during the clashes between the FSA and the Kurdish militia.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.todayszaman.com/newsDetail_getNewsById.action?newsId=296964 |title=Report: PYD's Aleppo commander executed by FSA |publisher=Todayszaman.com |date=2 November 2012 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> She commanded a unit responsible for protecting the Kurdish districts of Ashrafiyeh and ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2012/Nov-02/193672-syria-rebels-kill-woman-kurd-militia-leader-ngo.ashx#axzz2B6mcjsmY |title=Syria rebels kill woman Kurd militia leader: NGO |publisher=Dailystar.com.lb |date=2 November 2012 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> The report later proved to be false.<ref>{{cite news|last=Zalewski |first=Piotr |url=http://world.time.com/2012/11/05/syrias-kurds-civil-wars-within-a-civil-war/ |title=Syria's Kurds: Civil Wars Within a Civil War|publisher=World.time.com |date=5 November 2012 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 5 November, clashes occurred at a roundabout in Zahraa district, near the city's northwest entrance, and on the road to the airport. In Zahraa a fire started in a building close to air force intelligence branch.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hkDVC9RxEcdAWsfpdr-qkKqvXklw?docId=CNG.babe2c6ce4fa65a761fb48cc26d19b48.561 |title=Fresh clashes in Syrian capital and Aleppo: watchdog |publisher=Google.com |date=5 November 2012 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> The ] reported that a fire had burnt down its main warehouse, destroying supplies needed for the upcoming winter.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/world/heavy-clashes-in-syrian-cities-20121105-28ugk.html |title=Heavy clashes in Syrian cities 5 November 2012 |publisher=Brisbane Times |date=5 November 2012 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> Fighting was reported near the airport.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.albawaba.com/news/heavy-clashes-south-damascus-449490 |title=Heavy clashes in south of Damascus |publisher=Al Bawaba|date=5 November 2012 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 11 November, fighting was reported for the first time in the northwest Liramun neighbourhood.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/11/20121111121454453745.html|title=Israeli army fires 'warning shots' at Syria|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> SANA claimed that the Syrian army took Al-Sheikh Saeed Area.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2012/11/11/451836.htm |title=Terrorists Killed, Their Centers, Ammo Warehouses and Vehicles Destroyed in Several Provinces|publisher=Syrian Arab news agency |date=11 November 2012 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> During the day, the Army pounded rebel positions in the northern area.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syria troops pound rebel lines near Damascus, Aleppo |url=http://www.khaleejtimes.com/kt-article-display-1.asp?section=middleeast&xfile=data/middleeast/2012/November/middleeast_November162.xml |newspaper=] |date=11 November 2012 |accessdate=13 November 2012}}</ref> Rebels began using 'barrel bombs' similar to those dropped on rebel areas by the Air Force in an attack on an army position in Karem Jabal district. They rolled through the sewers underneath the guardpost before being detonated.<ref>{{cite news|last=Spencer |first=Richard |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/9670400/Syrian-rebels-using-barrel-bombs-to-attack-regime.html |title=Syrian rebels are using barrel bombs to attack regime military positions. 11 November |publisher=Telegraph.co.uk |date= 11 November 2012|accessdate=29 August 2013 |location=London}}</ref> | |||
| On 17 November, a car bomb exploded in Liramun. The Syrian Army and the rebels continued to fight in the northwest.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syrian rebels and regime clash in Aleppo |url=http://www.khaleejtimes.com/kt-article-display-1.asp?xfile=data/middleeast/2012/November/middleeast_November261.xml§ion=middleeast |newspaper=] |date=17 November 2012 |accessdate=17 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 18 November, rebels stormed the home base of the 46th Regiment in nearby ], securing the base the following day in a key strategic victory following a ]. The fall of Base 46 has further isolated government troops fighting in Aleppo as well as in Idlib Province while simultaneously providing the rebels with secure supply routes from the Turkish border and much-needed ammunition and heavy weaponry. The nearby army base at Sheikh Suleiman remained in government hands, though rebel forces had stepped up their attacks on it in the aftermath of Base 46's capture. | |||
| On 22 November, a building next to a major Aleppo hospital was targeted by an airstrike that killed at least 15 people according to the SOHR, including at least 11 rebels, a doctor and three children. The Dar al-Shifa hospital was a private clinic before it was turned into a field hospital by opposition forces. It has been targeted at least six times in recent months, mainly affecting the upper floors of the seven-story high building. Only 400–500 yards from the front line it is in a heavily shelled area and one of the few remaining medical clinics for residents in Aleppo.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/9695431/Syrian-warplanes-flatten-Aleppo-hospital.html |title=Syrian warplanes flatten Aleppo hospital|publisher=Telegraph |date=22 November 2012 |accessdate=29 August 2013 |location=London}}</ref> | |||
| On 24 November, SOHR said that clashes broke out between the rebels and the Syrian army at the Air Force Intelligence building near Shekhan square and Bani Zid neighbourhood.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syria rebels attack in Aleppo, clash with Kurds near Turkey |url=http://www.nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=460276 |publisher=] |date=24 November 2012 |accessdate=24 November 2012}}{{Dead link|date=December 2012}}</ref> | |||
| On 26 November, rebels claimed to control most of the roads to Aleppo, leaving the Damascus-Aleppo highway as the only supply route to government forces in the city.<ref><br /></ref> | |||
| On 27 November, rebels shot down a Syrian military helicopter on the outskirts of Aleppo using a surface-to-air missile.<ref><br /></ref> | |||
| On 28 November, the situation in the city's centre was calm with shootings and explosions being heard in the Armenian New Village neighbourhood.<ref>{{cite news|title=Shootings and explosions can be heard in the Armenian districts of Aleppo: Reisian |url=http://armenpress.am/eng/news/700874/shootings-and-explosions-can-be-heard-in-the-armenian-districts-of-aleppo-reisian.html |publisher=Armenpress |date=28 November 2012 |accessdate=3 December 2012}}</ref> | |||
| It was reported in December that the Bustan al-Basha neighbourhood had been shelled, while the clashes were ongoing on the airport road.<ref>{{cite news|title=An Armenian woman killed in Aleppo |url=http://armenpress.am/eng/news/701351/an-armenian-woman-killed-in-aleppo.html |publisher=Armenpress |date=3 December 2012 |accessdate=3 December 2012}}</ref> On 3 December, clashes were reported in Midan and the nearby Suleiman al-Halabi districts, while government forces shelled villages near the Ground Forces Academy. Activists reported that five bodies had been found in al-Soufayra.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=253828|title=Latest Syria developments|date=3 December|publisher=NOW Lebanon|accessdate=3 December 2012}}</ref> However, fierce combat soon broke out within Bustan al-Basha district, held by the Islamist al-Nusra Front and Ahrar ash-Sham groups, according to a military source. The Syrian Army advanced from Midan, taking control of the main avenue and reaching Zahi Hospital in Halak neighbourhood. Islamists continued to hold the side streets and fighting was ongoing.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syrian troops push into Islamist-held district of Aleppo |url=http://www.nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=463137 |publisher=] |date=3 December 2012 |accessdate=3 December 2012}}{{Dead link|date=December 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Early in December, the ] ] was taken by rebel fighters from the Al-Nusra Front. The factory produces ] among other chemicals.<ref>{{cite news|title=Rebels could resort to chemical weapons, Syria warns|url=http://www.france24.com/en/20121208-syria-warns-rebels-may-resort-chemical-weapons-assad-united-nations-islamists/|agency=France 24|date=8 December 2012 |accessdate=14 May 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 5 December, ]'s honorary consul, Mohamed Alae Eddinne, and another man were killed by a group of armed men when Eddinne tried to leave a hotel in Aleppo.<ref>{{cite news|title=Report: Morocco honorary consul in Syria killed |url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5h1t6dl305F1dTUcVpwExh9q_QkLQ?docId=42d36135021740a9ba15666ff2166056 |agency=Associated Press |date=5 December 2012 |accessdate=6 December 2012}}</ref> | |||
| Sheikh Suleiman base was overrun by opposition forces on 10 December. A hundred Army soldiers who were left inside the base retreated to the scientific building wearing gas masks.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5ji0WbnWM_rzlRgPfjKSrEPdCzmKw?docId=CNG.e027e84b338f29df5a62409f0c6ddc57.121 |title=AFP: Syria Islamist rebels seize part of Aleppo base |publisher=Google.com |date=9 December 2012 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> ] led the attack with only one FSA group taking part, one FSA commander said.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/163003#.UMcBPtVGyaU |title=Syria: Islamist Rebels Seize Military Base Near Aleppo 10 December 2012 |publisher=Israelnationalnews.com |date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> Many of the fighters were from Central Asia with the rebel commander coming from ].<ref>{{Dead link|date=August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 15 December, Colonel Yusef al-Jader, army officer and defector and top rebel commander for the Tawhid Brigade, was killed in action during an assault on the military academy located near Muslimiyeh, just north of Aleppo. Al-Jader, also known as Abu ], was said to be suspicious of the growing jihadist presence in the war and sought to "keep Jabhat al-Nusra at bay".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/middle-east-live/2012/dec/19/syria-conflict-rebel-leader-weapons-plea-live#block-50d1a76f95cb4d1777b6d7df|title=Abu Furat (11.39am GMT)|last=Chulov|first=Martin|date=19 December 2012|publisher=The Guardian|accessdate=20 December 2012|location=London}}</ref> SOHR reported that rebels had captured large parts of the academy, while Republican Guard troops were deployed by helicopter to the base in a counterattack.<ref>, Ahram Online</ref> Opposition forces eventually took control of the academy,<ref name="Aljazeera-school-16-12-2012">{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/12/20121215101935468486.html |title=Rebels 'seize Syrian army school' in Aleppo |publisher=Aljazeera.com |date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> a campus of around {{convert|3|km2|mi2}}.<ref name="Aljazeera-school-16-12-2012" /> At least 24 rebels and 20 government soldiers were killed in the fighting.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/liveblog/topic/syria-153 |title=Syria Live Blog 16 December 2012 |publisher=Blogs.aljazeera.com |date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> The remaining government troops withdrew from the base and regrouped near the prison at Muslimiyeh and the al-Kindi Hospital in the ] neighbourhood of Handarat, which had been captured from the rebels on 14 December. However, they remained encircled by opposition forces.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/nowsyrialatestnews/syrian_regime_troops_withdraw_from_aleppo_military_school|title=Syrian regime troops withdraw from Aleppo military school|last=AFP|date=16 December 2012|work=Syria|publisher=NOW.|accessdate=17 December 2012}}</ref> | |||
| During the fighting bread rose from $0.35 (USD) to $3 for a bag of 8 loaves.<ref></ref> On 16 December, it was reported that al-Tawhid Brigade fighters took control of Hanano Barracks.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2012/dec/16/syrian-islamist-rebels-take-aleppo-infantry-base/|title=Syrian Islamist rebels take Aleppo infantry base |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| === Battles in Aleppo and on its outskirts === | |||
| Beginning in late 2012, fighting intensified around the area of the airport. The al-Nusra Front unilaterally declared a ] in December and threatened to shoot down commercial aircraft, alleging that the government was using them to transport loyalist troops and military supplies.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/12/201212221532021654.html |title=Syria 'secures chemical weapons stockpile', |publisher=Aljazeera.com |date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> After multiple attacks on Aleppo International Airport, all flights were suspended on 1 January 2013.<ref>Ryan Lucas, huffingtonpost.com (27 February 2013). Source AP. Retrieved 6 May 2013.<br /></ref> Rebels attacked loyalist troops at the airport perimeter, including the nearby Brigade 80.<ref>, Telegraph</ref> By mid-February, at least 150 people had died in this fighting.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-202_162-57569684/syria-clashes-over-aleppo-airport-leave-150-dead/ |title=Syria: Clashes over Aleppo airport leave 150 dead|publisher=CBS News|date=15 February 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| Rebel troops attacked ]. On 30 December, government planes bombed rebel positions after the rebels entered the perimeter. On 14 January rebels had totally surrounded the base.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.npr.org/2013/01/14/169305322/status-report-on-fighting-in-aleppo-syria |title=6 Months of Combat, And No Victor in Syria's Biggest City |publisher=NPR |date=14 January 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> Rebel troops stormed the base on 9 February, prompting retaliatory airstrikes.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/nowsyrialatestnews/syria-warplanes-hit-rebels-inside-airbase|title=Syria warplanes hit rebels inside airbase|last=AFP|publisher=NOW|accessdate=9 February 2013}}</ref> On 11 February, rebels stormed and took control of Jirah airbase, killing or capturing 40 soldiers. It was reported that rebels were in control of some operational Czech-built ] jets.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2013/02/201321214119606560.html |title=Syrian rebels 'capture' air base in Aleppo|publisher=Al Jazeera|date=|accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
| The rebel offensive on the Old City continued in early 2013. On 12 January, army units had secured the areas surrounding the historic Umayyad Mosque, the Citadel and the Justice Palace near the Old City.<ref></ref> However, by late February rebels had re-captured the mosque after days of heavy fighting, as government forces retreated to nearby buildings.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/28/umayyad-mosque-aleppo-seized-syria-rebels_n_2781231.html|title=Umayyad Mosque In Aleppo Seized By Syria Rebels (VIDEO)|date=28 February 2013|work=The Huffington Post|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> Clashes continued afterward around the mosque.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Mar-02/208537-syria-risks-dissolution-un-chief-warns.ashx#axzz2MKeEKzwd |title=Syria risks dissolution, U.N. chief warns 2 March 2013 |publisher=Dailystar.com.lb |date=2 March 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 15 January, ] at ] during the first day of mid-terms, killing at least 87<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/scores-dead-as-twin-blasts-rip-through-syrias-aleppo-university/1/242433.html |title=87 dead as twin blasts rip through Syria's Aleppo University January 16, 2013 |publisher=Indiatoday.intoday.in |date=16 January 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref><ref name="skynews.com.au">{{cite web|url=http://www.skynews.com.au/world/article.aspx?id=836639 |title=Syria rebels plan assault on Aleppo 17 January 2013 |publisher=Skynews.com.au |date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> and wounding more than 150, among them students and civilians. The University dormitories are used by reguees. Activists blamed government warplanes while the government blamed "terrorists".<ref><br /></ref> The Syrian government representative to the UN stated that 162 had been wounded.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/01/15/syria-crisis-un-idUSL2N0AKJIC20130115 |title=UPDATE 1-Syria's UN envoy calls Aleppo attack 'a cowardly terrorist act' 15 January 2013 |publisher=Reuters.com |date= 15 January 2013|accessdate=29 August 2013 |first=Michelle |last=Nichols}}</ref> In the wake of the bombing, the Russian consulate in Aleppo temporary closed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/liveblog/topic/syria-153 |title=Syria Live Blog |publisher=Blogs.aljazeera.com |date=16 January 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| Belgian-born French journalist ] was killed during fighting on 18 January.<ref>: Aleppo Info. Center 18 January 2013</ref> Syrian State Media reported that rebels fired rockets at a building in the government-controlled Muhafaza Sakaniya neighbourhood, a claim that rebels denied.<ref>: TV 18 January 2013</ref> | |||
| On 22 February, rebels alleged that three "Scud-type missiles" landed in the Hamra, Tariq al Bab and Hanano neighbourhoods with 29 confirmed dead and 150 wounded.<ref> 22 February 2013<br />: Christian Science Monitor 22 Feb 2013</ref> SOHR later updated the toll, alleging that Scud missile strikes left 58 dead, including 35 children.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/nowsyrialatestnews/syria-missile-strikes-in-aleppo-leave-58-dead-ngo-says |title=Syria missile strikes in Aleppo leave 58 dead NGO says |publisher=Now.mmedia.me |date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 29 January, the bodies of approximately 110 men and boys, most with bound hands and shot in the head were found on the banks of the ] in the western district of Bustan al-Qasr, controlled by rebels. The victims were believed to have been detained, executed and dumped by government forces into the river over a period of several weeks. The bodies floated downstream from a government held portion of the river into a rebel area in Bustan al-Qasr. The bodies only became apparent when winter high water resided in late January. In February, a grate was placed over the river in rebel held territory to help catch other bodies floating down. Between February and mid-March, more than 80 additional bodies were dragged from the river.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://globalpublicsquare.blogs.cnn.com/2013/03/11/aleppos-river-of-death/ |title=Aleppo's river of death|publisher=CNN |date=11 March 2013|accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> The continual appearance of these bodies the Queiq River to be referred to as ] by locals.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/03/10/us-syria-crisis-river-idUSBRE9290G120130310 |title=Twenty bodies turn up in Aleppo's river of martyrs |publisher=Reuters |date=10 March 2013|accessdate=6 July 2013}}<br />{{cite news|url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/interactive/2013/mar/11/syria-bodies-river-aleppo-massacre |title=Syria: the story behind one of the most shocking images of the war|publisher=The Guardian |date=11 March 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013 |location=London |first1=Martin |last1=Chulov |first2=Mustafa |last2=Khalili |first3=Noah |last3=Payne-Frank}}</ref> | |||
| On 31 January, government warplanes bombed the Kurdish neighbourhood of Ashrafiyeh, controlled by the ] (YPG), killing at least twenty civilians and injuring 40.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://en.firatnews.com/news/news/death-toll-in-esrefiye-rose-to-20.htm|title=Death toll in Esrefiye rose to 20|last=ANF|date=2 February 2013|publisher=Firat News|accessdate=4 February 2013|location=Aleppo}}</ref> ] was also reportedly shelled. Several days prior, on 28 January, a government tank reportedly fired a shell into the Kurdish sector of the city, killing one child and wounding two women.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://en.firatnews.com/news/news/cannon-ball-kills-one-child-injures-two-women-in-aleppo.htm|title=Cannon ball kills one child, injures two women in Aleppo|date=29 January 2013|publisher=Firat News|accessdate=4 February 2013|location=Aleppo}}</ref> | |||
| In early January 2013, rebels laid siege to the strategic ] in ] on the western outskirts, which was used by the government to shell nearby areas.<ref>; Netherlands ships Patriots to Turkey 7 January 2013</ref> | |||
| On 2 February, Sheikh Saeed district residents confirmed that rebels had taken control of the district after the Army withdrew, allowing the rebels to secure a key route to Aleppo International Airport.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/breaking-news/syria-rebels-seize-key-aleppo-district/story-fn3dxix6-1226567402889|title=Cookies must be enabled. - The Australian|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> Sheikh Said was the last land route between Aleppo and Nayrab airport.<ref>{{cite web|author=Michael Warner, Carly Crawford |url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/breaking-news/syria-rebels-seize-key-aleppo-district/story-e6frf7k6-1226567402889 |title=Syria rebels seize key Aleppo district 2 February 2013 |publisher=Heraldsun.com.au |date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> Many of the neighbourhood's residents, who were largely loyal to the government, fled when the army retreated.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/video/middleeast/2013/02/20132993254296464.html|title=Rebels make gains in Aleppo city|last=Khodr|first=Zeina|date=9 February 2013|publisher=Al Jazeera|accessdate=10 February 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 24 February, rebels used captured tanks to breach the walls and storm the ]. Rebels took control of several buildings. Fierce clashes reportedly continued thereafter.<ref>{{cite news|author=Loveday Morris and Anne Gearan |url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/syrian-rebels-storm-police-academy-near-aleppo/2013/02/24/f21ed078-7eb1-11e2-b99e-6baf4ebe42df_story.html |title=Syrian rebels storm police academy near Aleppo |publisher=The Washington Post |date=24 February 2013|accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 1 March, government forces retook Tel Shghaib village, located southeast of Aleppo. The following day, Army forces seized a road to the besieged airport, creating a new supply route for government forces advancing from Hama.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2013/03/201332145439859542.html |title=Syria army seizes key Aleppo airport road 2 March 2013 |publisher=Aljazeera.com |date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 3 March, SOHR stated that 120 soldiers and 80 rebels were killed that week in the battle of the ].<ref> 3-March-13</ref> | |||
| On 4 March, rebels fully took over the police academy. They reported that about 45 government soldiers were killed, possibly executed, by rebels after they stormed the academy.<ref name="Malas-Nabhan-04-03-2013">Nour Malas and Ali A. Nabhan, The Wall Street Journal (4 March 2013). Retrieved 6 May 2013.</ref> | |||
| During March, an eight-day rebel offensive in an attempt to capture the village of ] on the western outskirts of the city was repelled. 200 fighters on both sides were killed in the offensive,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailytimes.com.ng/article/syrian-rebels-seize-strategic-town |title=Syrian Rebels 'Seize' Strategic Town |publisher=Dailytimes.com.ng |date=22 July 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> including 120 government and 80 rebel fighters. Among government forces killed were 115 policemen, who the government alleged were executed by the opposition after capturing a ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.todayszaman.com/news-308777-report-syrian-opposition-fighters-kill-115-policemen.html |title=Report: Syrian opposition fighters kill 115 policemen |publisher=Todayszaman.com |date=4 March 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref><ref></ref> | |||
| On 15 March, rebels seized control of an ammunition factory complex and munitions depots in the town of ], southwest of Aleppo. The complex had been used to supply the Army with munitions to regularly shell rebel positions in the surrounding area.<ref>{{cite news|last=Abdulrahim |first=Raja |url=http://www.latimes.com/news/world/worldnow/la-fg-wn-syria-war-assad-third-year-20130315,0,1650959.story |title=Syrian civil war enters third year |publisher=latimes.com |date=15 March 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 19 March there was an ], about 15 kilometers west of Aleppo, with about 26 fatalities. It was the first widely reported use of chemical weapons in the war. Both the government and rebels claim that a missile or rocket was used to deliver the agent. The Syrian Information Minister blamed the rebels for the attack, while the rebels blamed the government.<ref>William Branigin, Anne Gearan, Suzan Haidamous, The Washington Post (19 March 2013). Retrieved 6 May 2013.</ref> | |||
| On the night of 29 March, the opposition Aleppo Media Center claimed that rebel forces had captured ], which was previously held by both government and Kurdish forces. However, SOHR stated that while rebel forces advanced into the district, they had captured only the eastern part. SOHR also reported that heavy fighting was still ongoing. It was also confirmed that during their advance, rebels had captured and killed the top pro-government Sunni cleric in the district, Hassan Seifeddine. Reports by pro-government Al-Ikhbariya TV and SANA stated he was beheaded and his head was placed on the minaret of the Al-Hassan Mosque.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/syrian-rebels-enter-strategic-aleppo-neighborhood-18845619#.UVb-ZBw3tCg |title=Syrian Rebels Enter Strategic Aleppo Neighborhood |publisher=Abcnews.go.com |date=24 August 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> SOHR confirmed that his body had been dragged and paraded in the neighborhood.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://supportkurds.org/news/saturday-30-march-2013/|title=Saturday 30 March 2013|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 31 March, government troops counterattacked. Fighting was concentrated by the Awarded bridge and in the area between eastern ] and the Bustan al-Basha neighborhood.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://supportkurds.org/news/sunday-31-march-2013/|title=Sunday 31 March 2013|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> Since the rebel attack on the district started, 43 people had been killed, including 15 civilians, 19 government soldiers and militiamen and 9 rebels.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gulfnews.com/in-focus/syria/residents-flee-fierce-aleppo-clashes-watchdog-1.1165538 |title=Residents flee fierce Aleppo clashes: watchdog |publisher=Gulfnews.com |date=1 April 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| It was claimed by YPG fighters in ] that following a long discussion within the group, the (mostly Kurdish) YPG decided to end their neutrality in Aleppo and switch to the rebel side, cooperating with the FSA in their advance through the district where several pro-government militias and intelligence officers were located.<ref></ref> However, a day later, a YPG political representative denied the claim and stated that the Kurds had not aligned with the rebels, instead that Kurdish forces fought government troops after the Army attempted to reach Arab parts of the district that had been captured by opposition forces, via the Kurdish areas.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pydinfo.com/news-feed?start=120|title=News feed|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| According to the YPG, as a result of these clashes, which also included artillery, 15 Syrian soldiers and one YPG fighter, YPG military council member Zekeriya Xelîl, were killed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hawarnews.com/kurdi/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=681:endame-meclisa-lekeri-ya-ypge-jiyan-xwe-ji-dest-da&catid=39:manet |title=Endamê Meclîsa Leşkerî ya YPG'ê jiyan xwe ji dest da – HATE NÛKIRIN |publisher=Hawarnews.com |date=4 April 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 2 April, clashes erupted in the strategic village of Aziza, on the southern outskirts, from which rebels were launching attacks against Aleppo international airport and the adjacent military air base.<ref>{{cite news|last=Carey |first=Glen |url=http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-04-07/syria-army-oust-rebels-from-airport-near-aleppo-activists-say.html |title=Syria Army Oust Rebels From Airport Near Aleppo, Activists Say |publisher=Bloomberg.com |date=7 April 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> By 6 April, the military had captured the village, pushing the rebels to the outskirts. Around 35 people were killed, including at least 18 civilians and 5 rebels.<ref><br/><br/></ref> The capture of the village was seen as a strategic victory for the military because it would allow the Army to protect its supply convoys and have a strategic spot from which they could shell rebel positions.<ref name="laydown"/> | |||
| On 13 April, nerve gas was reported in ]. An anonymous doctor reported three were dead and a dozen wounded. 1,500 doses of ] were used with a further 2,000 sent by aid agencies. Atropine is a recognised antidote to nerve gases.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://abcnews.go.com/International/evidence-nerve-gas-aleppo-deaths/story?id=18977091#.UW_JHdVmmp0 |title=Evidence of Nerve Gas in Aleppo Deaths April|publisher=Abcnews.go.com |date=17 April 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| By 15 April, rebels had reportedly gained full control of the northern entrance to Aleppo, as well as a factory and a weapons storage facility.<ref name="aljazeera1">{{cite web|url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/liveblog/topic/syria-153 |title=Syria Live Blog – Al Jazeera Blogs |publisher=Blogs.aljazeera.com |date=8 January 2012 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 16 April, the first Aleppo truce was declared. The temporary truce allowed ] workers to remove 31 decomposing bodies killed during in the poor al-Sakhour district located in northern Aleppo. Three of the dead were found with tied hands and four were badly burnt.<ref><br /></ref> | |||
| On 22 April, two Syrian Christian Orthodox Bishops were kidnapped on their return to Aleppo after completing humanitarian work. State media blamed the rebels while the rebels stated, ''"all probabilities are open."''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dw.de/aleppo-orthodox-bishops-kidnapped-in-syria/a-16763661 |title=Aleppo Orthodox Bishops kidnapped in Syria 22 April 2013 |publisher=Dw.de |date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 23 April rebels took control of a key position at the strategic Mennagh Military airbase, allowing them to enter the airbase after a months-long siege.<ref name="bbc.co.uk">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-22283746 |title=BBC News – Syria clashes destroy ancient Aleppo minaret |publisher=Bbc.co.uk |date=24 April 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 24 April, the 11th-century minaret of the rebel-held ] was destroyed in the fight.<ref name="bbc.co.uk" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://mideast.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2013/04/25/minaret_of_aleppo_s_umayyad_mosque_destroyed_in_clashes |title=Minaret of Aleppo's Umayyad Mosque Destroyed in Clashes|author=Mary Casey and Jennifer Parker|publisher=Foreign Policy|date=|accessdate=6 July 2013}}<br />{{cite web|url=http://www.albawaba.com/news/syria-umayyad-mosque-487136 |title=Minaret of ancient Aleppo mosque destroyed amid fierce clashes |publisher=Al Bawaba |date=25 April 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}<br />{{cite news|last=Dewey |first=Caitlin |url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/worldviews/wp/2013/04/29/take-a-360-degree-tour-inside-aleppos-now-devastated-umayyad-mosque/ |title=Take a 360-degree tour inside Aleppo's now-devastated Umayyad Mosque |publisher=Washington Post|date=|accessdate=6 July 2013}}<br />{{cite news|agency=The Associated Press |url=http://www.newsday.com/news/world/minaret-of-landmark-mosque-in-syria-destroyed-1.5131338 |title=Minaret of landmark mosque in Syria destroyed |publisher=Newsday.com |date=24 April 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}<br />{{cite news|url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/video/2013/apr/25/syrian-mosque-aleppo-destroyed-video |title=Syrian mosque in Aleppo's Unesco world heritage site destroyed – video|publisher=Guardian |date=26 June 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013 |location=London}}<br />{{cite web|url=http://www.channel4.com/news/syria-mosque-aleppo-destroyed-great-umayyad-minaret |title=Aleppo mosque minaret destroyed|publisher=Channel4.com |date=24 April 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> Rebels claimed that the Army destroyed the minaret with tank fire to prevent it becoming a sniper position, while the government claimed that it was destroyed by the Nusra Front.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-04-25/ancient-minaret-destroyed-during-aleppo-battle/4650298 |title=Ancient minaret destroyed during Aleppo battle|publisher=Abc.net.au |date=25 April 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 4 May, the ] continued amid reports that rebels had made further advances. It was claimed that rebels had killed the base commander and also seized the second military detachment of the base.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.yahoo.com/syrian-rebels-enter-northern-air-123712827.html |title=Syrian rebels enter northern air base|publisher=Yahoo! News|date=5 May 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref><ref>{{Dead link|date=February 2014}}</ref> Rebels claimed that a group of pilots had defected and assassinated the base's commanding officer. The defectors told rebels that around 200 soldiers remained on base, garrisoned in the headquarters building and supported by a handful of tanks. Many soldiers resorted to sleeping under tanks, fearing a rebel assault.<ref>{{cite news|author=C. J. Chivers |url=http://atwar.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/05/15/battlefield-update-the-fight-for-isolated-government-outposts-in-northern-syria/ |title=Battlefield Update: The Fight for Isolated Government Outposts in Northern Syria|location=Syria |publisher=The New York Times|date=15 May 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 9 May, it was reported that air strikes forced rebels to retreat from the air base.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/story/2013/05/09/syria-fighting.html |title=Syrian forces shell northern cities |publisher=Cbc.ca |date=9 May 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 15 May, rebel forces assaulted the main prison in central Aleppo where some 4,000 inmates were held. These include both common and political prisoners. The attack was initiated by twin car bombs at the prison entrance. Rebels secured one compound that housed government forces. The attack bogged down due to the intervention of Syrian tanks and planes. No prisoners were freed.<ref><br /></ref> | |||
| On 16 May, rebels were forced to retreat when soldiers began throwing inmate's bodies out of the windows.<ref>{{cite news|last=Spencer |first=Richard |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/10062832/Syrian-rebels-call-off-Aleppo-prison-siege-after-troops-throw-inmates-out-window.html |title=Syrian rebels call off Aleppo prison siege after troops throw inmates out window |publisher=Telegraph |date=16 May 2013|accessdate=6 July 2013 |location=London}}</ref> It was reported that rebel fighters took control of a building inside the prison after blowing up the main gate.<ref>{{cite news|agency=Associated Press |url=http://www.thereporter.com/news/ci_23255143/syrian-rebels-regime-troops-battle-inside-aleppo-prison |title=Syrian rebels, regime troops battle inside Aleppo prison |publisher=The Reporter |date=16 May 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> Rebel fighters continued to hit the facility with rockets late into the night.<ref>{{Dead link|date=August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| In early May, clashes started between rebel groups Ghuraba al-Sham and groups operating under Judicial Committee alliance. The latter accused Ghuraba al-Sham, which was in alliance with Jabhat al-Nusra, of going rogue and looting factories. According to various rebel reports Jabhat al-Nusra started weakening after Nusra leader al-Jolani pledged loyalty to Al-Queda leader ]. Before the announcements rebel fighters of various brigades were leaving for Jabhat al-Nusra, in one day about 120 left. Several rebel officials also commented on their disappearance from much of Aleppo.<ref><br /></ref> | |||
| A former government scientist claimed that the Syrian government was using chemical weapons in small quantities to slow rebel advances. Amongst these areas were the ] district. The scientist, who worked for Centre for Scientific Studies and Research, claimed that the alleged gas attack on ], Aleppo, on 19 March 2013, was likely tear gas and not nerve gas.<ref>{{cite web|author=Basma Atassi |url=http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2013/05/2013523155639566436.html |title=Insider sheds light on Syria's chemical arms|publisher=Al Jazeera|date=23 May 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> A UNHRC report dated 12 February 2014 concluded that the extremely deadly nerve agent ] was used in the ] and that the sarin used in that attack, bore the ‘same unique hallmarks’ as the sarin used in the ].<ref name="Human rights">{{cite news|title=Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention|url=http://www.ohchr.org/EN/HRBodies/HRC/RegularSessions/Session25/Documents/A-HRC-25-65_en.doc|accessdate=8 March 2014|publisher=United Nations| location = | date=12 February 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 26 May, 15 inmates were killed, according to ], at the central prison during fighting.<ref>{{Dead link|date=August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 1 June, 50 prisoners were reported to have been executed by government soldiers, while a further 31 were killed by the rebel bombardment of the central prison. 40 government soldiers were killed by rebels.<ref><br /></ref> | |||
| On 2 June, a senior commander in the Lebanese movement ], said that Assad's forces had called thousands of Hezbollah fighters deeper into Northern Syria, in and around Aleppo, to shore up Assad's overstretched forces and potentially break the stalemate there. It was estimated that around 4,000 Hezbollah fighters responded. Rebels said Hezbollah forces had entered the city on Sunday and were preparing an attack. An unnamed Hezbollah commander stated: “We are going to go after strongholds where they (the FSA) think they are safe. They are going to fall like dominos.” | |||
| The diversion of rebel forces to the ] potentially weakened the rebel grip on Aleppo.<ref name="washingtonpost.com" /> | |||
| On 13 June, in a statement on recent clashes in the province of Afrin, in western Kurdistan, People's Defense Units (YPG) Command said that Turkish soldiers attacked the village of Mele Xelîl in Afrin late Wednesday. YPG said, "The armed groups which first attacked our forces in the villages of Aqîn, Basil and Zarat increased in number as of June 10 when they attacked Meresk and Kefer Mezê villages. The armed groups were strongly responded and defeated by our forces". The Command remarked that YPG had strengthened its control as armed groups had to withdraw from the region after the clashes one day later. Referring to the Turkish attacks, YPG said "Troops of the Turkish military launched an attack against the village of Mele Xelîl in Afrin's Cindêris district late Wednesday in support of the armed groups targeting the region of Afrin." YPG said Turkish soldiers were repulsed from the region as a result of the response by YPG units.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://en.firatnews.com/news/news/ypg-turkish-troops-repulsed-from-afrin.htm |title=YPG: Turkish troops repulsed from Afrin |publisher=En.firatnews.com |date=13 June 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
| === Operation Northern Storm === | |||
| On 9 June 2013, the Army announced the start of operation "Northern Storm", in an attempt to recapture territory in and around Aleppo.<ref name="telegraph.co.uk"><br /><br />{{cite web|url=http://en.alalam.ir/news/1482788 |title=Syrian army starts "North storm" to save Aleppo |publisher=En.alalam.ir |date=9 June 2013|accessdate=6 July 2013}}<br />{{cite web|url=https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/nowsyrialatestnews/syria-forces-ready-aleppo-assault |title=Syria forces ready Aleppo assault |publisher=Now.mmedia.me |date= |accessdate=6 July 2013}}<br /></ref> In preparation for the assault the Army reinforced the Shiite villages of Al-Nubbul and Zahra which the government intended to use to advance into Aleppo. Rebel defenses in Salamiyeh, south of Aleppo, were strengthened to prevent tanks from moving from that direction.<ref>{{cite news|last=Yacoub |first=Khaled |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/06/09/us-syria-crisis-north-idUSBRE9580DY20130609 |title=Fighting intensifies in Syria's north after Assad gains |publisher=Reuters.com |date= 9 June 2013|accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| Between 7 and 14 June, Army troops, government militiamen, and reportedly Hezbollah fighters, launched the operation. Over a one-week period, government forces advanced both in Aleppo city and the countryside, pushing back the rebels. However, on 14 June, according to an opposition activist, the tide started reversing, after rebels halted an armoured reinforcement column from Aleppo headed for the two Shiite villages northwest of the city. As of 16 June, the rebels had held back the column for two days. Rebels claimed to have destroyed one tank and killed 20 government soldiers northwest of Maaret al-Arteek.<ref>{{cite news|last=Yacoub |first=Khaled |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/06/16/us-syria-crisis-aleppo-idUSBRE95F0BA20130616 |title=Rebel brigades check loyalist advances in Aleppo: opposition |publisher=Reuters.com |date= 16 June 2013|accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> Before the column was stopped, government forces had captured the high ground at Maaret al-Arteek, threatening rebel positions. Rebels were boosted after receiving at least 50 Russian-made ] anti-tank missiles in the previous few days from Saudi Arabia.<ref>{{cite news|last=Osborn |first=Andrew |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/06/17/us-syria-crisis-idUSBRE95G0MR20130617 |title=Putin, Obama face off over Syria; rebels get Saudi missiles |publisher=Reuters.com |date=17 June 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> During 13 June fighting in Aleppo city, government forces temporarily advanced into rebel-held Sakhour district from two directions, but were soon repelled.<ref><br /></ref> | |||
| On 12 June, FSA fighters claimed to have killed 40 Hezbollah and Syrian army soldiers, who were traveling in buses, in an ambush between the villages of al-Bouz and al-Khanasir.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/06/11/FSA-At-least-40-Hezbollah-fighters-Syrian-soldiers-killed-.html |title=FSA: At least 40 Hezbollah fighters, Syrian soldiers killed |publisher=Al Arabiya|date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 17 June, a car-bomb hit an Army facility in al-Douwairinah district, east of the international airport. Jabhat al-Nusra claimed responsibility for the attack. Some opposition activists claimed the attack killed at least 60 troops.<ref>{{cite news|title='Dozens dead' in car bomb attack in Aleppo|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2013/06/2013617114424685997.html|date=17 June 2013}}</ref> However, according to SOHR, only six soldiers were killed and 15 wounded.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://supportkurds.org/news/monday-17-june-2013/|title=Monday 17 June 2013|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| === Rebel offensive in the West === | |||
| On 21 June 2013, the FSA said that 13 rebel brigades, amongst them the large Liwa al-Tawhid and the Farouq units, had launched a new offensive. One of the targets was the military research facility in the Rashidin area of New Aleppo. Rebel mortars set it ablaze. The rebels claimed that they were moving forward in Rashidin with the aim of removing military targets including areas used by the army to shell rebel areas.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Jun-22/221255-activists-report-shelling-north-of-syrias-capital.ashx#axzz2Wwsf5hqy |title=Damascus clashes rage, Aleppo rebels in new attack June 22, 2013 |publisher=Dailystar.com.lb |date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 23 June, 12 government soldiers were killed by a car bomb while 6 rebels from the Islamist Al-Farouq Brigade were killed.<ref><br /></ref> | |||
| On 24 June, rebels claimed to have repulsed a loyalist attack crediting their victory to newly arrived anti-tank weapons. Aleppo military council leader Colonel Abdul Jabbar al-Oqaidi claimed, "The regime pushed forward in the north of the city, but the Free Syrian Army caused a lot of casualties and they went back to their bases."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au/story/1594594/rebels-back-on-aleppo-offensive/|title=Rebels back on Aleppo offensive |publisher=Bendigo Advertiser |date=25 June 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> The renewed offensive was called "The Battle of Qadisiyah", a reference to a ], from 636 CE, in which an Arab army defeated a Persian army.<ref>{{cite news|last=Spencer |first=Richard |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/10137558/Syria-rebels-heed-lesson-of-Qusayr-to-drive-back-Assad-forces-in-Aleppo.html |title=Syria: rebels heed lesson of Qusayr to drive back Assad forces in Aleppo 24 June 2013 |publisher=Telegraph.co.uk |date= 23 June 2013|accessdate=29 August 2013 |location=London}}</ref> According to one rebel fighter, the rebels were launching counterattacks in the north east and west of the city, advancing into the agricultural research center.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/news/article.cfm?c_id=2&objectid=10892718 |title=Rebels heed lesson of Qusair to repel regime in Aleppo|publisher=Nzherald.co.nz |date=25 June 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 25 June, rebels advancing in western Aleppo were reportedly engaging in "tit for tat" operations against the Army in Rashidin and Ashrafiyeh, according to SOHR.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.foxnews.com/world/2013/06/25/syria-battles-rage-in-damascus-aleppo-ngo/ |title=Syria battles rage in Damascus, Aleppo: NGO |publisher=Fox News |date=25 June 2013|accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> | |||
| A numbering of people were killed in the shelling of Aleppo Central Prison on 7 July, though who fired the shells was not immediately known.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Prison+fierce+clash+ancient+city+Aleppo/8628965/story.html |title=Prison hit in fierce clash in ancient city of Aleppo |publisher=Vancouver Sun|date=8 July 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> Syrian government forces retained control over New Aleppo despite initial rebel advances in the area, with the opposing sides entrenched sometimes as close as 200 meters to one another.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/video/middleeast/2013/07/201377125846596163.html |title=Syrian army aims to retake western Aleppo |publisher=Al Jazeera|date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| An activist said that an apparent rebel blockade of the southwestern highway was causing fast-emerging food shortages in government-held areas. A rebel source denied that it was intentional, saying that intensified fighting on the highway was to blame, with no vehicle on the highway safe from the fighting. The Southwestern highway is the source of food supplies to western Aleppo, and among the most strategic roads leading into the city.<ref>{{cite news|last=Solomon |first=Erika |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/07/09/us-syria-hunger-aleppo-idUSBRE9680O520130709 |title=Syrian rebel blockade in Aleppo leaves thousands hungry: activists |publisher=Reuters |date= 9 July 2013|accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 17 July, rebel fighters were reportedly making small advances in Salaheddine.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/topic/syria/syria-rebels-seize-parts-deraas-nawa-city |title=Syria rebels seize parts of Deraa's Nawa city – Al Jazeera Blogs |publisher=Blogs.aljazeera.com |date=17 July 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 21 July, reports emerged that rebel fighters had taken full control of the Aleppo suburb of ], along with the towns of Mataa and Summakiyah, east of the city.<ref>{{cite web|last=Ibrahim |first=Ali |url=http://www.aawsat.net/2013/07/article55310835 |title=Syrian rebels take key town near Aleppo|publisher=Aawsat.net |date=23 July 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> Khan Al-Assal was the last government stronghold west of Aleppo, and rebels claimed that seizing it had given them control of the entire Western Aleppo countryside.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2013/07/201372412628810967.html |title=Syrian rebels claim control of western Aleppo|publisher=Al Jazeera|date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> Unverified video footage showed the body of the Syrian Army's operations commander in Khan Al-Assal, General Hassan Youssef Hassan who rebels of the Al Ansar brigade claimed they killed in clashes. In the video they also displayed his ID card.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.trust.org/item/20130722090830-mvs1f |title=Syria rebels seize government town in Aleppo province |publisher=Trust.org |date=22 July 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> Both opposition and government sources reported that about 150 government soldiers were killed during the battle, including 51 who were executed after they had surrendered. The executions were reportedly carried out by members of the Al-Nusra Front and the Ansar al-Khalafa al-Islamiya Briagade.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.nytimes.com/2013/07/27/world/middleeast/soldiers-mass-execution-reported-by-syria-group.html | work=The New York Times | first1=Hania | last1=Mourtada | first2=Rick | last2=Gladstone | title=Soldiers' Mass Execution Reported by Syria Group | date=26 July 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-23488853 |title=BBC News – Syria opposition condemns Khan al-Assal 'executions' |publisher=Bbc.co.uk |date=29 July 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| By 23 July, some analysts regarded operation "Northern Storm" to be a feint, since no large-scale offensive was launched by the Army, with the aim of diverting rebel resources to the Aleppo region while government forces escalated their ] in an attempt to clear out the remaining rebel hold-outs in the city center.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.upi.com/Top_News/Special/2013/07/22/For-Syrias-Assad-Homs-is-the-key-target-not-Aleppo/UPI-36011374518011/ |title=For Syria's Assad, Homs is the key target, not Aleppo |publisher=Upi.com |date=22 July 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 31 July, government soldiers attacked rebel positions outside ] after gathering reinforcements for a new assault.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/31/syria-attack-khan-al-assal_n_3681711.html#slide=2736927 |title=Syrian Troops Attack Khan Al-Assal, Site of Alleged Nerve Gas Attack |publisher=Huffingtonpost.com |date= 31 July 2013|accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 6 August, rebel fighters took full control of the Menagh airbase after an almost 10 months long siege.<ref>http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/08/06/FSA-takes-control-of-Menagh-air-base-near-Aleppo.html</ref> | |||
| On 16 August, government warplanes bombed the rebel-held Kalassa district, destroying three buildings and killing 15.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/16/syria-airstrike_n_3768129.html|title=Syria Airstrike Leaves at Least 15 Dead And Dozens Wounded |publisher=Huffingtonpost.com |date= 16 August 2013|accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 23 August, rebels took control of 13 villages in southern and eastern Aleppo.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.worldbulletin.net/?aType=haber&ArticleID=115868 |title=FSA seizes control of 13 Aleppo villages|publisher=World Bulletin |date=23 August 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 26 August, rebels took control of the strategic town of ] located between Aleppo and Hama province reportedly killing more than 50 pro government fighters.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Aug-26/228688-syria-rebels-cut-armys-supply-lines-to-aleppo-activists.ashx#axzz2d6nLnAnx |title=Syria rebels seize strategic town, kill dozens of Assad fighters|publisher=The Daily Star |date=25 August 2013 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> The town was the Syrian Army's only supply route out of Aleppo, and SOHR claimed that its capture had effectively left pro government forces in Aleppo besieged by rebel forces.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2013/08/2013826124946176888.html |title=Syria rebels take control of strategic town|publisher=Al Jazeera|date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 21 September, rebels seized control of several villages south of Aleppo in an offensive aimed at cutting the supply lines of Pro Assad forces from Damascus.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20130922/world/Syria-weapons-data-handed-to-UN-team.487152 |title=Syria weapons data handed to UN team |publisher=timesofmalta.com |date= |accessdate=8 February 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 1 October, 16 militants were killed in an ambush while trying to slip into the Salah al-Din district. A number of other militants were also killed in a separate incident during clashes with the Syrian army in the Ansari district, adjacent to Salah al-Din.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.al-akhbar.com/node/17193/|title=Al-Akhbar Syria: Al-Qaeda Branch Battles Kurds, Threatens Ankara|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 3 October, Syria's army took back control of a strategic town Khanaser of Aleppo in the northern province of Aleppo on Thursday after a weeks-long battle pitting troops against rebels, a monitoring group said.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Oct-03/233442-syria-army-retakes-northern-town-activists.ashx#axzz2gipkpvx6 |title=Syria army retakes northern town: Activists |publisher=The Daily Star |date= |accessdate=3 October 2013}}</ref> Several days later, the supply line to Aleppo was reopened as army troops advanced in the villages around Khanaser.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Oct-07/233819-in-northern-push-syrian-troops-reopen-key-road.ashx#axzz2h296GKdy|title=In northern push, Syrian troops reopen key road|publisher=The Daily Star|date=7 October 2013|accessdate=7 October 2013}}</ref> State agency SANA claimed the Army had restored control over 40 villages in the area and engineering units had dismantled insurgent fortifications, about 600 anti-tank mines and 1,500 explosive devices.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sana.sy/eng/337/2013/10/12/507033.htm|title=Army eliminates a big number of Jabhat al-Nusra terrorists in several provinces|publisher=SANA|date=12 October 2013|accessdate=12 October 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 10 October, a rebel advance in Salaheddine led to a large gun battle which left 10 government troops dead along with 6 rebels.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/afp/131009/syria-rebels-seize-guard-post-jordan-border-0 |title=Syria rebels seize guard post on Jordan border |publisher=GlobalPost |date= |accessdate=8 February 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 18 October, 20 soldiers and 7 rebels were killed after rebel groups stormed an air defence facility near the towns of Hujaira and Obaida south west of Aleppo.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-24579105 |title=BBC News – Syrian intelligence chief killed in Deir al-Zour |publisher=Bbc.co.uk |date=18 October 2013 |accessdate=8 February 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/world/375266/fierce-clashes-in-east-syria-as-us-pushes-peace-talks |title=Dozens killed in Syria's Aleppo amid push for talks | Bangkok Post: news |publisher=Bangkok Post |date= |accessdate=8 February 2014}}</ref> | |||
| === Battle of Base 80 and Army advances === | |||
| ] | |||
| {{See also|Aleppo offensive (October–December 2013)}} | |||
| On 8 November 2013, before sunrise, the Syrian Army launched an attack against "Base 80", controlled by the rebels since February 2013, near the Aleppo airport. The Army, backed up by tanks and heavy artillery, unleashed "the heaviest barrage in more than a year" according to residents in Aleppo. A rebel fighter said, "We did not see it coming. The attack came as a real shock to us." According to Al-Jazeera, if the Army captured the base, it would cut the rebel supply routes between Aleppo city and the opposition-controlled town of al-Bab, about 30 kilometers from the Turkish border.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://live.aljazeera.com/Event/Syria_Live_Blog/95575090|title=Syria Live Blog|work=AJE Live Events|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> By morning, the Army took over several areas of "Base 80", leaving them in control of large parts of it. Later in the afternoon, rebel forces, including ISIS, received reinforcements and regrouped, after which they attacked the base. During the fighting, two dozen air and artillery strikes struck rebel positions.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/syria-army-retakes-parts-of-base-by-aleppo-airport-ngo-113110800979_1.html|title=Syria army retakes parts of base by Aleppo airport: NGO|author=AFP|date=8 November 2013|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/08/us-syria-crisis-aleppo-idUSBRE9A70JN20131108|title=Syrian army closes in on Aleppo after dawn attack|work=Reuters|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> After dark, rebels counter-attacked and by dawn the next day managed to recapture most of the base, with fighting still occurring around it.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.voanews.com/content/syria-rebels-retake-key-base/1786947.html|title=Syria Rebels Retake Key Base|work=VOA|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><ref name="sabc">{{cite web|url=http://www.sabc.co.za/news/a/7abf270041c4038e9494bd1c2eddf908/Syria-rebels-recapture-army-base-near-Aleppo-airport-20130911|title=Syria rebels recapture army base near Aleppo airport|author=REUTERS|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> During the attack, rebels used GRAD rockets to strike the base.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.themalaymailonline.com/world/article/syria-opposition-wants-pressure-on-damascus-before-agreeing-to-talks|title=Syria opposition wants pressure on Damascus before agreeing to talks|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 10 November, fighting still continued around "Base 80", with reports of more fighting inside the base itself. During the clashes, rebels targeted two Army armored vehicles, while one rebel tank was destroyed, killing five rebel fighters.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://supportkurds.org/news/sunday-10-november-2013/|title=Sunday 10 November 2013|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> By the afternoon, the Army was once again in full control of the base.<ref></ref> According to the SOHR, 63 rebels,<ref name="retakes"/> including at least 11 foreign fighters,<ref name="sabc" /> and 32 soldiers were killed during the battle.<ref name="retakes"/> One other report put the number of rebels killed between 60 and 80.<ref></ref> Army units were backed-up by Hezbollah fighters and pro-government militias during the assault.<ref name="retakes"></ref> | |||
| By 11 November, the Army had captured a series of nearby positions,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nwherald.com/2013/11/11/syria-based-groups-say-talks-may-be-last-chance/a8ppwjk/|title=Syria-based groups say talks may be 'last chance'|work=Northwest Herald|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> securing most of the area around Aleppo International Airport.<ref name="reopen">{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Nov-11/237517-syria-army-seeks-to-reopen-aleppo-airport-military.ashx#axzz2kLOt6xon|title=Syria army seeks to reopen Aleppo airport: military|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 12 November, government forces, backed by tanks, captured two highrise buildings in the northern Ashrafieh and Bani Zeid districts, and advanced into the two neighborhoods after close-quarter street fighting.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/12/us-syria-crisis-aleppo-idUSBRE9AB0YA20131112|title=Boosted by foreign Shi'ite militia, Assad's forces advance on Aleppo|work=Reuters|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> On 17 November, Syrian Army troops advanced in the Saif al-Dawlah neighborhood and seized control over a number of sites, with fighting still ongoing in the neighborhood.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://breakingnews.sy/en/article/29195.html|title=Syrian Arab Army advances in Aleppo… Civilians martyred and injured in an attack, Damascus|author=شبكة عاجل الإخبارية|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| By mid-December, government forces were reportedly in control of 60 percent of the city, according to the Kurdish news agency ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://rudaw.net/english/middleeast/syria/05122013|title=Disillusioned Fighters Abandon Frontlines as Syria’s Revolution Goes Awry|work=Rudaw|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| === Operation Canopus Star starts === | |||
| {{See also|Operation Canopus Star}} | |||
| In early December 2013, the Syrian Army launched operation ''Canopus Star'' with the aim to encircle Aleppo and cut rebel supply lines into the city, thus besieging rebel-held areas.<ref name="SAAblockadeAleppo"/> | |||
| Between 15 and 28 December 2013, a series of Army helicopter attacks with ]s<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Dec-19/241680-syria-extends-air-campaign-on-aleppo-region-activists.ashx#axzz2nv9rWutS|title=Syria extends air campaign on Aleppo region: activists|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> against rebel-held areas of Aleppo left 517 people dead, including 151 children, 46 women and 46 rebels, according to the SOHR.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.enca.com/world/517-dead-fortnight-regime-strike-syria|title=517 dead in fortnight of regime strike in Syria|author=eNCA|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> A rebel commander claimed that by 26 December, more than 1,000 people had been killed in the bombing campaign.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aawsat.net/2013/12/article55325898|title=Syria: Intense Aleppo offensive prompts mass exodus|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> On 9 January, aid groups stated more than 700 people had been killed since the start of the bombing campaign.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thedailystar.net/jihadists-fighting-back-6248|title=Jihadists fighting back|work=The Daily Star|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 20 December, Islamist rebels, including members of the Al-Nusra Front, took control over the Kindi hospital, which had been used by government soldiers as a base for several months. Reuters photojournalist ] was killed during the action.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/the-syrian-conflict-through-the-eyes-of-a-slain-photographer/2013/12/23/207afbd0-6bed-11e3-b405-7e360f7e9fd2_gallery.html|title=The Syrian conflict through the eyes of a slain photographer|work=Washington Post|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/teenage-photographer-molhem-barakat-killed-covering-syrian-civil-war-for-reuters-9023122.html|title=Teenage photographer Molhem Barakat killed covering Syrian civil war for Reuters|work=The Independent|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> At least 20 regular soldiers were killed and dozens were taken prisoner in the fighting which began after two Al-Nusra fighters detonated themselves at checkpoints guarding the hospital.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2013/12/21/world/syria-mosque-shelling-kills-cleric-aleppo-rebels-advance/#.UrVrFDtFCP8|title=Syria mosque shelling kills cleric; Aleppo rebels advance|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> A few days later, government forces stormed and recaptured much of the Bani Zeid neighborhood on the northeastern outskirts of the city.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2013/12/aleppo-syria-war-bombing-increase-death-victims.html#|title=Aleppo's bloodiest week|work=Al-Monitor|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 25 December, pro-government sources claimed that the Syrian Army captured the ] and al-Jbanat areas of Aleppo city.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://breakingnews.sy/en/article/31225.html|title=The Army retakes al-Sheikh Maqsoud and al-Jbanat area of Aleppo|author=شبكة عاجل الإخبارية|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 8 January 2014, Islamist rebel forces loyal to the National Coalition attacked the ISIS headquarters at a hospital in the Qadi Askar district of Aleppo. Reports indicate that the rebels were successful in capturing the base, freeing dozens of rebel and civilian prisoners while also recovering the bodies of dozens of people who appeared to have been executed. Elsewhere, over 100 ISIS forces reportedly surrendered in Aleppo's Saliheen district.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-25652381|title=Syria rebels capture ISIS headquarters in Aleppo|work=BBC News|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> By the end of 6 January, the death toll in the bombings had risen to 603, including 172 children, 54 women and 54 rebels.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://supportkurds.org/news/tuesday-7-january-2014/|title=Tuesday 7 January 2014|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=13509&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.UuRyKBA1jcs|title=More than 600, including 172 children, died in the bombing explosive barrels|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 9 January, it was reported that all ISIS forces were driven out of Aleppo city by the rebels.<ref name=ISISoutAleppo>{{cite news|title=Syria: Opposition groups near Aleppo attacked militants from the Islamic State of Iraq in Syria (Isis) |url=http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jan/03/syrian-opposition-attack-alqaida-affiliate-isis | publisher=Guardian | date=3 January 2014 |accessdate= 26 April 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 11 January 2014, government forces secured the area of Al-Naqqarin and Sheikh Yusuf hill<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=13676&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.UtGV2fRDufU|title=URGENT :: system controls the area in Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> and were advancing towards the industrial area of Aleppo city.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Jan-11/243797-syria-jihadists-kill-5-rebels-in-bombing-activists.ashx#axzz2q6bl5600|title=Syrian troops advance on Aleppo area: activists|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> According to opposition activists, the rebels were in fear of losing the industrial district, which would cut their supply lines from Turkey. The next day, the Army also advanced towards the highway linking the airport to the government-held western part of the city.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2014/01/syrian-troops-push-towards-aleppo-area-2014112105719722237.html|title=Syrian troops push towards Aleppo city|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 14 January, the Army reportedly captured Al-Zarzour, Al-Taaneh, Al-Subeihieh and Height 53 on the eastern outskirts of Aleppo.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303819704579318732940300704|title=Fighting Among Rebels Boosts Syrian Regime|date=13 January 2014|work=WSJ|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/world/syrian-army-recaptures-five-towns-near-aleppo-s-airport_903928.html|title=Syrian army recaptures five towns near Aleppo's airport|work=Zee News|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> On 15 January, an Al-Manar correspondent reported that the Army captured Al-Sabaheyya, al-Faory and Tal-Riman, east of Al-Safira,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.almanar.com.lb/english/adetails.php?fromval=1&cid=23&frid=23&eid=129985|title=Syrian Army Advances Eastern Aleppo, Eliminates Terrorists in Several Provinces|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> and was pushing towards the electricity station, northeast of Al-Safira.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=13861&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.UuRxSxA1jcs|title=Ongoing violent clashes in Aleppo and the fall of the 4 fighters|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> Later, Al-Manar claimed that the Army captured Tell Alam and Huwejna, east of Aleppo, also on the approaches to the electricity station.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.almanar.com.lb/english/adetails.php?eid=130194&frid=23&seccatid=20&cid=23&fromval=1|title=ISIL Controls Raqa, Kills Tawheed’ Commander in Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> At the same time, government troops pushed out of Kweires military airport, east of Aleppo and the station, and captured villages around the base.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2014/01/islamic-front-isis-rebel-clashes-syria.html|title=Islamic Front no answer for Syria conflict|work=Al-Monitor|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 16 January, the Army made slow progress in the neighborhood of Bani Zeid, while the rebels captured two buildings in the Saif Al-Dawla district.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/security/2014/01/three-sided-war-aleppo-syria-army-regain-ground.html|title=Three-sided war helps Syrian army regain ground|work=Al-Monitor|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 17 January, the Army bombarded the villages of Tal-Na'am, Jobul and Tal-Estabel and captured the village of Tal-Sobeha.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://halabnews.com/news/46426|title=System Controls The "Hill Sbihia" And The Bombing Of Braszmat Missiles Targeting The Villages Of Rural Southern|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> By 18 January, it was confirmed government troops captured the town of Tall Alam, just west of the power plant. Sheikh Zayat, on the southern outskirts of the industrial zone, was also captured.<ref>https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1/q72/s720x720/1551540_476645092445916_474672971_n.jpg</ref><ref>http://i0.wp.com/www.syrianperspective.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/image_1.jpg</ref> | |||
| On 25 January, the Army captured the neighborhood of Karam Al-Qasr on the eastern side of Aleppo city, after three days of fighting.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://live.aljazeera.com/Event/Syria_Live_Blog/103108577|title=Syria Live Blog|work=AJE Live Events|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 27 January, fighting was renewed in the area of the Umayyad Mosque in Aleppo's Old City, as the rebels claimed of destroying a Hezbollah base at Mount Hoihna and capturing most of the buildings in the town Maarath Al-Artik, on Aleppo's northwest outskirts.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.allvoices.com/contributed-news/16419719-syria-opposition-advancing-in-aleppo-taking-positions-both-from-assad-and-jihadists|title=SYRIA: OPPOSITION ADVANCING IN ALEPPO TAKING POSITIONS BOTH FROM ASSAD AND JIHADISTS:|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 28 January, rebels captured the Maarath Al-Artik mountain, which the Army used to shell nearby rebel-held towns.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://live.aljazeera.com/Event/Syria_Live_Blog/103573669|title=Fighting in Aleppo as rebels seize Maaret Al-Arteq mountain|work=AJE Live Events|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> On the same day, the Army made more advances and seized the districts of Ballura and Kasr al-Tarrab, according to the pro-government al-Watan newspaper. It too said that an operation had been launched from Nairab airport in the east, as well as Aziza village in the south, while adding that troops had reached the outskirts of Mayssar, a rebel bastion in southeast Aleppo. At the same time, the SOHR confirmed the military captured the Karm al-Qasr district, on the southeastern edge of Aleppo, and reported that residents of Mayssar, Marjeh and Enzarrat districts were fleeing their homes for "neighbourhoods controlled by regime forces because of the fighting".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Jan-28/245577-syria-army-edges-forward-in-aleppo.ashx#axzz2pkBJjgkD|title=Army makes first push toward Aleppo in a year|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.asiaone.com/news/world/syria-army-edges-forward-aleppo|title=Syria army edges forward in Aleppo|work=AsiaOne|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 2 February, the pro-government Al-Watan newspaper announced that the Army captured most of the eastern Karam al-Turab district of Aleppo.<ref></ref> | |||
| On 7 February, the Islamist brigade Ahrar ash-Sham and al-Nusra Front took near-full control of Aleppo Central Prison, storming the center after a British suicide bomber named Abu Suleiman al-Britani<ref> Daily Mail. 7 February 2014. Retrieved 21 February 2014.</ref> detonated a car bomb at the entrance. Rebels also claimed to had freed hundreds of detainees, many of them activists from the prison, which reportedly held 3,000 prisoners in dire conditions.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2014/02/06/world/meast/syria-civil-war/ |title=Syria: Fight for Aleppo prison; humanitarian deal in Homs - CNN.com |publisher=Edition.cnn.com |date= 7 February 2014|accessdate=8 February 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.sky.com/story/1207673/syria-rebels-seize-jail-freeing-hundreds |title=Syria Rebels Seize Jail 'Freeing Hundreds' |publisher=News.sky.com |date= |accessdate=8 February 2014}}</ref> Government sources claimed that soldiers inside of the prison destroyed the suicide bomber's truck with RPGs before he reached the entrance.<ref> Al-Monitor. 7 February 2014. Retrieved 21 February 2014.</ref> The next day, the Army recaptured most of the prison. At least 47 people died in the fighting,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Feb-08/246771-syria-troops-retake-most-of-aleppo-prison.ashx#axzz2sjCFjwnN|title=Syria troops 'retake most of Aleppo prison'|publisher=The Daily Star|date=7 February 2014}}</ref> including the Al-Nusra commander of the Aleppo prison operation: Sayfullah al-Shishani.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/10622936/Syrian-rebels-break-hundreds-of-inmates-out-of-Aleppo-prison.html|title=Syrian rebels break hundreds of inmates out of Aleppo prison|publisher=Telegraph|date=6 February 2014|location=London|first=Ruth|last=Sherlock}}</ref> | |||
| On 16 February, government forces captured the village of Sheikh Najjar, south of the industrial zone,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=15428&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.UwISn_ldWfU|title=Progress of the Islamic state in the countryside of Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> as well as Talet al-Ghali, on the eastern outskirts of Aleppo.<ref name="SAAblockadeAleppo" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.almanar.com.lb/english/adetails.php?eid=135925&cid=23&fromval=1&frid=23&seccatid=20&s1=1|title=Syrian Army Tightens Grip on Yabroud, Regains Control over Several Areas|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 17 February, the Tawhid Brigade of the Islamic Front launched Operation 'Earthquake' and detonated mines under the Army headquarters at the Carlton Hotel, leaving parts of the hotel damaged. Opposition sources also claimed that rebels captured strategic points around the Aleppo citadel.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.aa.com.tr/en/news/289195--islamic-front-blows-up-assad-forces-hq-in-aleppo |title=Islamic front blows up Assad forces' HQ in Aleppo |publisher=Anadolu Agency |date=17 February 2014 |accessdate=17 February 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/94245/World/Region/Syria-rebels-explode-mines-under-Aleppo-hotel-NGO.aspx|title=Syria rebels explode mines under Aleppo hotel: NGO|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 19 February, rebels claimed to had recaptured Sheikh Najjar, while, the SOHR stated it was unclear who controlled the area.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/Article.aspx?id=247776#axzz2oNa3sbT8|title=Barrel bomb claims 18 lives near school in Deraa|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> The next day, the Army re-secured Sheikh Najjar<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=15545&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.UwXdxfldWfV|title=Progress of the system perimeter of Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> and captured two strategic hills that overlook the eastern neighborhoods of Aleppo, al-Ghalia and Syriatel.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.al-akhbar.com/content/syrian-army-prepares-attack-its-southern-border|title=Syrian army prepares for an attack from its southern border|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> It was also reported that rebels detonated mines under an army headquarters near the Aleppo citadel. This was the third such attack this month using a network of tunnels.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Feb-20/247893-rebels-use-tunnels-to-blast-regime-hq-in-aleppo.ashx#axzz2u0kAuNDy |title=Rebels use tunnels to blast regime HQ in Aleppo |publisher=The Daily Star |date=20 February 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 24 February, the Army made progress in the Sheikh Najjar industrial zone, with rebels sending reinforcements to the area. The military was attempting to capture strategic areas in Sheikh Najjar that overlook the outskirts of the Aleppo central prison, which had been under a rebel siege for over a year. The Army hoped to station artillery at those positions to help fend off attacks on the prison.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Feb-24/248342-syrian-troops-rebels-battle-for-key-aleppo-district.ashx#axzz2uFhSNi9e|title=Syrian troops, rebels battle for key Aleppo district|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> The next day, the military captured the factory of the Zanoubia ceramic company in the southern al-Sheikh Sa'id district of Aleppo. Soldiers, NDF militiamen and Hezbollah fighters also captured new positions near Base 80, putting them one kilometer from the Tariq al-Bab district.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Feb-26/248516-regime-forces-inch-closer-to-aleppo.ashx#axzz2uPx5ODI3|title=Regime forces inch closer to Aleppo|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=15848&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.UwzdbfldWfU|title=Tens of martyrs and wounded of the Phalange Islamic Fighting|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| By 9 March, government forces had captured a strategic hill, where they positioned artillery to bombard rebel positions around the prison. The Army had also reportedly captured the eastern Hanano district of Aleppo city and was planning to open a new road that would link Hanano and the industrial zone, after it is captured, thus imposing a blockade on the city.<ref name="SAAblockadeAleppo">{{cite web|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/security/2014/03/syria-army-impose-blockade-militants-aleppo.html#|title=Syrian army to impose blockade in Aleppo|work=Al-Monitor|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 18 March, rebels detonated an "explosive device" in a tunnel under the Justice Palace.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Mar-19/250687-syrian-army-and-hezbollah-advance-west-after-yabroud.ashx#axzz2vwXddm7O |title=Syrian army and Hezbollah advance west after Yabroud |publisher=The Daily Star |date=19 March 2014}}</ref> The rebels also seized the old Justice Palace after the blast.<ref>{{cite web|author=Thomson Reuters Foundation |url=http://www.trust.org/item/20140319181241-1ozzp/?source=search |title=Flames are seen after what Free Syrian Army fighters said was shelling by forces loyal to Syria's President Bashar al-Assad at the compound of the justice palace in the old city of Aleppo |publisher=Trust.org |date=2014-03-19 |accessdate=2014-08-17}}</ref> | |||
| === Offensives and counter-offensives === | |||
| On 23 March 2014, rebels captured Kafr Hamra, the Shweihneh strategic hill overlooking west Aleppo<ref>{{cite web|url=http://eaworldview.com/2014/03/syria-daily-insurgents-advance-latakia-aleppo-province/|title=Syria Daily, Mar 23: Insurgents Advance In Latakia and Aleppo Provinces|work=EA WorldView|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> and briefly cut off the supply route to Aleppo airport before government troops found another supply route.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Mar-23/251083-third-day-of-fighting-at-syria-turkey-border-crossing.ashx#axzz2whhUUyEC|title=Third day of fighting at Syria-Turkey border crossing Read more: http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Mar-23/251083-third-day-of-fighting-at-syria-turkey-border-crossing.ashx#ixzz3182OOvIa Third day of fighting at Syria-Turkey border crossing|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> Rebels also captured the police station on the edge of the citadel, as well as military installations in the Al-Layramoun district.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Mar-24/251160-war-kills-assad-cousin-turkey-tensions-rise.ashx#axzz2wp1cQmQR|title=War kills Assad cousin, Turkey tensions rise|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 28 March, it was reported that a Syrian brigadier general of the Republican Guard and five of its soldiers were killed in the Al-Layramoun district.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Mar-29/251654-syrians-rally-in-support-of-rebels-coastal-offensive.ashx#axzz2xEPnZo6Z|title=Syrians rally in support of rebels’ coastal offensive|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 9 April, it was reported that the Syria's Red Crescent and the UN refugee agency had delivered aid to rebel-held areas of Aleppo city for the first time in 10 months.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/nowsyrialatestnews/542651-rare-aid-enters-rebel-held-areas-in-syrias-aleppo|title=Rare aid enters rebel-held areas in Syria's Aleppo|date=9 April 2014|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 10 April, rebels took the technical services building<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=17702&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U0aIR_lYB1A|title=Violent clashes in Damascus and Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> and the al-Khadamat al-Faniya building near the air force intelligence building,<ref name="intelligencebuilding">{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/index.php?option=com_news&nid=2057&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U0a3f_lYB1A|title=Violent clashes in Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> but pro-government sources denied that the rebels were advancing in western Aleppo.<ref name="farsnews.com">{{cite web|url=http://farsnews.com/newstext.php?nn=13930121000027|title=غزوه تحصن» در نفوذ به غرب حلب ناکام ماند«|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> It was also reported that the Army was trying to regain control over the rebel controlled A’qrab area.<ref name="farsnews.com"/> | |||
| On 12 April, rebels reportedly stormed the government held Ramouseh industrial district, in an attempt to cut the Army supply route between the airport and a large Army base next to district. The rebels also reportedly took the Rashidin neighbourhood and parts of the Jamiat al-Zahra district,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2014/04/syria-rebels-advance-aleppo-city-2014412101712303691.html|title=Syria rebels advance in Aleppo city|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/index.php?option=com_news&nid=2063&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U0qmEvlYCDs|title=Violent clashes around the air forces intelligence building in Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> while rare clashes between the Army and YPG took place in the ] area.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/index.php?option=com_news&nid=2067&Itemid=2&task=displaynews|title=barrel bombs on Aleppo and clashes in Der-Ezzor|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> The SOHR stated that there had been casualties on both sides and civilians had fled the area.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2014/04/12/NGO-fiercest-fighting-in-Syria-s-Aleppo-since-mid-2012-.html|title=NGO: ‘fiercest’ fighting in Syria’s Aleppo since mid-2012|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 15 April, rebels took the Sadkop area and the police station in the Ramouseh district,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://en.etilaf.org/all-news/news/rebels-advance-on-regime-forces-in-western-aleppo.html|title=Rebels Advance on Regime Forces in Western Aleppo|work=Syrian National Coalition Of Syrian Revolution and Opposition Forces|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> but the Army managed to recapture lost ground in the district later that day. At least seven pro-government fighters were killed in the district, while 18 rebels were reportedly killed that day in and around aleppo city.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=17997&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U03TKPmSzX4|title=Heavy casualties in Aleppo and Idlib|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 17 April, the rebels detonated "explosive devices" underneath Army positions around the Hanano Barracks, before attacking it. State Media claimed the attack was repelled, while opposition activists claimed the rebels were advancing. The SOHR stated that at least 27 regular troops and 20 rebels, including a commander, were killed in the fighting. The SOHR also claimed that rebels had seized buildings near the Air Force Intelligence building.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Apr-18/253738-rebels-attack-army-barracks-in-aleppo.ashx#axzz2zBkC7umO|title=Rebels attack army barracks in Aleppo|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 18 April, it was reported that 25 civilians were killed and more than 100 wounded by rebel bombardments on government-held areas in western Aleppo the day before. The SOHR also stated that an Army officer was killed during clashes in the Ramouseh district.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/index.php?option=com_news&nid=2098&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U1HAdvmSzX4|title=Shells kill 25 civilians in the western neighborhoods of Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 19 April, the Army reportedly regained ground around the perimeter of the air intelligence building and al-Leirmoun area, while it was also claimed that the rebels captured two checkpoints on the outskirts of al-Aziza. Meanwhile, rebels claimed to have captured the village of Fajdan in southern Aleppo.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/index.php?option=com_news&nid=2105&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U1OkavmSzX4|title=Opposition fighters take control on new checkpoints in Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 25 April, the Al-Sham operation room and YPG signed a truce in Aleppo city.<ref name="shamYPGtruce">{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Apr-26/254453-aleppo-in-second-week-of-blackout-aimed-at-limiting-barrel-bombs.ashx|title=Aleppo in second week of blackout aimed at limiting barrel bombs|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> On this date an opposition imposed power blackout on regime held neighborhoods in Aleppo reached a second week.<ref>AFP </ref> | |||
| On 26 April, according to the SOHR, rebels advanced on the perimeter of the al-Zahra artillery base, while the Army advanced in the al-Matahen area east of Az Zarzur. At least 13 soldiers and five rebels were reportedly killed in the clashes at the al-Zahra artillery base and the al-Maliya square. It was also claimed that an Army tank was disabled in that area.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/index.php?option=com_news&nid=2158&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U1xesfl_tMc|title=13 regular soldier killed in Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> Later that day, the Army managed to push further east of Aleppo by capturing the village of Shamir after heavy clashes with the ISIS. Meanwhile, rebels reportedly advanced towards the new Palace of Justice and took control of parts of it.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=18476&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U1wOU_l_tMc|title=عشرات الشهداء والجرحى بينهم اطفال في القصف الجوي على محافظة حلب|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 27 April, it was reported that rebels blew up the Chamber of Commerce in Old Aleppo, which was being used as Army headquarters.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Apr-27/254564-21-dead-in-rebel-fire-on-regime-in-aleppo-activists.ashx#axzz2znyXUo7D|title=21 dead in rebel fire on regime in Aleppo: activists|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> At the same time, at least 70 civilians were reported killed and wounded by rebel shelling on government-held areas of Aleppo.<ref name="70civ">{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/index.php?option=com_news&nid=2168&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U108gfl_tMd|title=At least 70 civilians killed and wounded in Aleppo today|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> Opposition sources claimed that at least 10 rebels and 14 pro-government fighters, including the Director of the Office of the Chief of the Air Force Intelligence in Aleppo, were killed in clashes around the new Palace of Justice and the Airforce intelligence building.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=18489&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U10OMPl_tMc|title=45 martyrs in Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> It was also reported that the rebels announced the start of a new military operation in Shekh Najjar, Aziza suburb, Sheikh Said district and Old Aleppo.<ref name="70civ"/> | |||
| On 28 April, rebels and the Syrian government reached a deal in Aleppo and electricity was returned in western Aleppo, after the rebels cut it for ten days, in exchange for a cessation of airstrikes by the Army.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.latimes.com/world/worldnow/la-fg-wn-syria-rebels-deal-electricity-20140428,0,4638106.story#axzz30HOktJbm|title=Syrian officials, rebels reach deal to restore electricity to Aleppo|date=28 April 2014|work=latimes.com|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> This agreement appeared to be holding on 30 April, despite minor violations.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Apr-30/254885-attacks-in-damascus-homs-kill-at-least-54.ashx#axzz30O3DJ6sm|title=Attacks in Damascus, Homs kill at least 54|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> However, it was later reported that the Syrian Airforce bombed The Ein Jalout school and killed at least 20 people, including 17 children. By the end of the day, electricity to western Aleppo was completey cut off again.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/index.php?option=com_news&nid=2209&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U2Odhfl_tCg|title=Mortars on Aleppo, and Explosive barrels on Idlib|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 29 April, the Army managed to consolidate its control over al-Ramouseh district. It also recovered the mills area and advanced towards the neighborhood of al-Sheikh Saeed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/security/2014/04/syria-army-retake-kassab-turkey.html##ixzz30OBmd1ih|title=Syrian troops look to retake Kassab|work=Al-Monitor|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 30 April, the rebels retook the Dawar al-breij area after it was taken by the Army earlier that day.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=18619&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U2F3qPl_tCg|title=Heavy clashes in Aleppo and Al-Hasakah|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> Meanwhile, two suicide-bombers detonated themselves on the al-Zarzour hill and the al-Sheikh Yusuf hill. The blasts resulted in the destruction of several "machineries and vehicles". It was also reported that three other suicide-bombers detonated themselves at checkpoints near al-Sheikh Yusuf, al-Zarzour and al-Mayyas hills, amid rebel advances in the area. Rebels claimed that dozens of pro-government fighters were killed and wounded in the clashes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=18629&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U2F3ovl_tCg|title=Tens of elements of the regular troops killed and wounded in Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> ] reported that four tanks were disabled by rebels at the al-Sheikh Yusuf hill.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://aljazeera.net/news/pages/dca6e5a6-1f2a-432b-a0f8-615147226c05|title=Clashes in Damascus and rebel advances in Hama and Daraa|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 1 May, rebels reportedly captured the orphanage near the airforce intelligence building,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=18647&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U2KUNvl_tCg|title=Advances for the islamic rebels in Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> while the Army regained control over the al-Breij roundabout after it was lost to the rebels the day before. The next day, government forces captured the Al-Majbal area, thus taking control of the northeastern entrance to Aleppo. This also brought government forces close to the central prison.<ref name=systementrance>{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=18672&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U2P3uvmSyfU|title=System controls the entrance to the north-east of Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 4 May, the Army was engaged in heavy fighting while it was trying to push from the towards the besieged .<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=18748&Itemid=2&task=displaynews|title=Regular troops are trying to break the siege of Aleppo central prison|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 5 May, rebels reportedly managed to retake several points in , amid the arrival of hundreds of rebel reinforcements from Idlib, Hama and Aleppo provinces. According to the SOHR, 21 rebel fighters and 30 pro-government fighters were killed in the clashes, in addition to 3 disabled Army tanks.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/index.php?option=com_news&nid=2228&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U2gRk_l_tCg|title=More than 60 fighters killed in Aleppo yesterday|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> Other opposition sources denied the report saying rebel forces had made no progress in the Bureij area.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/TahrirSy/status/463219915466764288|title=TahrirSy|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/Alepponian/status/463214688281849856|title=Alepponian|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> Four days later, according to the SOHR, rebels managed to retake the al-Majbal area at the cost of at least 27 fighters, while the Army suffered several casualties.<ref name=retakemajbal>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=18936&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U21Snvl_tCg|title=Rebels retake al-Majbal area near the Aleppo central prison|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> As of 14 May, fighting was still ongoing in the vicinity of Bureij.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=19076&Itemid=2&task=displaynews#.U3RH3vmSyyE|title=Clashes and shelling of several areas in Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 8 May, the remains of the and a number of buildings near it were leveled by a 'tunnel-bomb', resulting in casualties among the Army ranks. The hotel was used as a military base. According to the SOHR, at least 14 pro-government fighters were killed in the blast, while rebels claimed to have killed 50.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/May-09/255844-homs-capital-of-the-revolution-in-the-hands-of-regime-forces.ashx#axzz317iJR6Sw|title=Homs, ‘capital of the revolution,’ in the hands of regime forces|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| === Prison siege broken and Sheikh Najjar captured === | |||
| On 20 May, the Army captured the Sheikh Najjar power plant and Agop hill right next to it, which opened the way towards the central prison, bringing government troops to one kilometer from the prison complex.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=19270&Itemid=2&task=displaynews|title=1 kilometer separates the regime forces from the central prison of Aleppo.|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> There were also reports that some troops had already arrived to reinforce the prison.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://tahrirsouri.com/2014/05/21/%D8%AA%D8%B7%D9%88%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D9%85%D8%AA%D8%B3%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%B9%D8%A9-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%AD%D9%84%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%86%D8%B8%D8%A7%D9%85-%D9%8A%D9%86%D8%AC%D8%AD-%D8%A8%D9%81%D9%83/|title=Rapid developments in Aleppo .. system works to break the siege on the Central Prison in Aleppo and news of his downfall|work=تحرير سوري|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> After the capture of the hill, the military attacked the village of Hilan,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=19269&Itemid=2&task=displaynews|title=System locked in fierce clashes in an attempt to decode Alhsaran central prison|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> which is the last rebel stronghold before the prison. The Army was also still engaged in Sector 2 of the industrial complex.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/469011315558989824|title=Elijah J Magnier|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| The next day, the military captured Hilan, as government forces had broken through on the road leading to the prison. At the same time, rebels blew up the Kindi hospital in fear it could be used for monitoring rebel supply routes if the advancing government troops managed to capture it.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/May-21/257295-syria-army-presses-bid-to-break-prison-siege-reports.ashx#axzz32Mc8BDkD|title=Syria army presses bid to break prison siege: reports|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> Soon after, Army tanks had reached and taken up positions at about 500 meters from the prison complex. The area was witnessing heavy artillery shelling, with government troops dropping at least 30 barrel bombs from military helicopters over the previous 24 hours, as rebel forces were fast retreating from the area due to the government's superior firepower.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ctvnews.ca/world/syrian-troops-inch-closer-to-seizing-aleppo-central-prison-1.1831393|title=Syrian troops inch closer to seizing Aleppo central prison|work=CTVNews|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> During the two days of fighting, at least 50 rebels were killed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://latino.foxnews.com/latino/news/2014/05/21/50-rebels-killed-in-fighting-in-syria/|title=50 Rebels killed in fighting in Syria|work=Fox News Latino|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 22 May, the Army had finally broken the siege of the prison as tanks and armored vehicles entered the complex.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/syria-army-breaks-rebel-siege-of-aleppo-central-prison-ngo.aspx?pageID=238&nID=66804&NewsCatID=352|title=Syria army breaks rebel siege of Aleppo central prison: NGO|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><ref>http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2014/05/22/Syrian-troops-reach-besieged-Aleppo-prison.html</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/May-22/257379-syrian-troops-reach-besieged-prison-in-aleppo.ashx|title=Assad's forces enter Syria's Aleppo prison: activists|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> The Air Force dropped more than 100 barrel bombs during the final push to reach the prison.<ref name="npr.org"/> This puts the north-east approach to Aleppo under the control of government forces.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.trust.org/item/20140522080640-unicr/?source=dpagehead|title=Assad's forces enter Syria's Aleppo prison - monitor|author=Thomson Reuters Foundation|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> At this point, for the first time, an Army reconnaissance squad entered one of the streets of the eastern Masakin Hanano district.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://tahrirsouri.com/2014/05/22/the-assad-regime-tries-to-recreate-the-homs-scenario-in-aleppo/|title=The Assad regime tries to recreate the Homs scenario in Aleppo|work=تحرير سوري|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| By 25 May, the military was in control of most of the industrial zone {{convert|16|km|sp=us}} north east of Aleppo, except a northern section, and had captured the town of Jbeileh next to the prison.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/CdricLabrousse/status/470272075966316544|title=The Arab Chronicle|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> By 8 June, the army had completely secured the industrial city which had been organized as a fortress by the rebels, who planted mines and dig dozens of tunnels in the area. It was reported that hundreds of rebels blew themselves up rather than surrendering.<ref>{{cite web|author=Robert Fisk |url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/aleppos-sheikh-najjar-the-death-of-a-oncerich-city-9503699.html |title=Aleppo's Sheikh Najjar: The death of a once-rich city - Middle East - World |publisher=The Independent |date=2014-06-06 |accessdate=2014-08-17}}</ref> | |||
| On 31 May, a number of buildings near the market Zahrawi in old Aleppo were damaged by a 'tunnel-bomb' according to a ] video uploaded by ]. The rebels alleged the attack had resulted in casualties among the Army ranks. The ] claimed at least 20 soldiers were killed in the blast, while Islamic Front claimed to have killed 40.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=19616&Itemid=2&task=displaynews|title=At least 20 pro-government fighters were killed in a 'tunnel-bomb' blast|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 4 July, the Army took control of the Sheykh Najjar industrial area<ref name="siasat-sheykhnajjar">{{cite web | url=http://www.siasat.com/english/news/syrian-army-retakes-industrial-city-aleppo-province | title=Syrian army retakes industrial city in Aleppo province | accessdate=4 July 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/index.php?option=com_news&nid=20705&Itemid=2&task=displaynews |title=قوات النظام تواصل تقدمها في شمال شرق حلب وتسيطر على قرية ثالثة |publisher=Syriahr.com |date=2014-07-04 |accessdate=2014-08-17}}</ref> and two days later captured the town of Kafar Saghir (کفر صغیر), northeast of Aleppo, bringing the distance between Army-held areas and the rebel-held Infantry School to just one town.<ref></ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://farsnews.com/newstext.php?nn=13930416000700 |title=آزادسازی نقاط جدید در حلب/ هشدار گروههای مسلح نسبت به آزادسازی شهر |publisher=Farsnews.com |date= |accessdate=2014-08-17}}</ref> With this, the rebel's situation deteriorated as the Army was close to severing all supply routes to opposition-held districts of Aleppo.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/137701-syrian-opposition-says-army-poised-for-aleppo-assault|title=Syrian Opposition Says Army Poised for Aleppo Assault|work=Naharnet|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| === Rebel counter-attacks repelled, continued Army advance === | |||
| On 29 July, at least 13 Syrian Army personnel were killed by two tunnel-bombs under a police station building near Aleppo Citadel.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2014/07/syrian-soldiers-killed-rebel-tunnel-bombs-20147291993231487.html|title=Syrian soldiers killed by rebel tunnel-bombs|author=Associated Press|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| By mid-August, only three miles remained before the military could completely cut rebel supply lines into the city, after the opposition forces’ position deteriorated in the previous month following failed rebel counterattacks that attempted to dislodge government troops from the industrial zone. The rebels also attempted to capture the military academy in the western outskirts of the city, in an attempt to force government forces to reposition from the east to the west. However, the attack ended in catastrophe after the rebels were exposed to repeated air strikes, even at night, that made it impossible to move men and weapons freely.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/2014/08/11/3243308/moderate-rebels-face-worsening.html|title=Moderate rebels face worsening situation in Aleppo|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| Government forces had also captured two hills<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Aug-06/266198-isis-takes-brutal-revenge-on-tribal-insurgents-in-syria.ashx#axzz3ABaoNHre|title=ISIS takes brutal revenge on tribal insurgents in Syria|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> and three villages in the western Aleppo countryside,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.zamanalwsl.net/en/news/6125.html|title=Assad forces make advances in west Aleppo|work=SYRIA NEWS - ZAMAN ALWSL #syria|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> while there were competing claims over the town of ].<ref>SYRIA DIRECT: NEWS UPDATE 8-6-2014</ref> On 18 August, the Army captured Khan Tuman hill.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/syriahroe/posts/570910439683965|title=Aleppo Province|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| === Renewed Army offensive north of the city === | |||
| On 3 October, the Syrian Army, backed by NDF fighters, captured the town of Handaraat and Handaraat Hill, thus placing the rebel-held districts of Aleppo under siege.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/updated-battle-map-aleppo-handaraat-liberated-syrian-arab-army/|title=Updated Battle Map of Aleppo: Handaraat Liberated by the Syrian Arab Army|author=Leith Fadel|work=Al-Masdar News|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref><ref>. ''Reuters''. 2014-10-03</ref> | |||
| On 9 October, the Army claimed to had captured the Handarat farms and the village of Babinnis, just south of the rebel-controlled infantry school.<ref>{{cite web|title=yrian Army Captures West Handarat Farms and Babinnis; Ahrar Al-Sham Offensive in Safira is Repelled|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-captures-west-handarat-farms-babinnis-ahrar-al-sham-offensive-safira-repelled/|website=almasdarnews|accessdate=9 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 11 October, rebels advanced in the neighborhood of al-Rashedin where they took control over some buildings.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/syriahroe/posts/595400740568268|title=Aleppo Province: Violent clashes took... - Syrian Observatory for Human Rights - Facebook|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> Two days later, they also advanced in Suleiman al-Halabi area near Hanano Barracks and in the village of Saifat.<ref></ref> On 13 October, according to the SOHR, rebels made advances that could possibly cut off the supply roads to the Army-held Sifat, Handarat and Handarat base.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2014/10/al-nusra-and-the-battalions-have-advanced-in-handarat-and-sifat-areas/|title=Al Nusra and the battalions have advanced in Handarat and Sifat areas|author=SOHRadmin1|publisher=|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 18 October, the Army captured the village of al-Jbayleh and the cement plant, north of the Central Prison of Aleppo, ending the rebel's attempts to isolate the Army in Sifat and Handarat.<ref>{{cite web|title=The regime army could seize a village and a cement plant in Aleppo|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2014/10/the-regime-army-could-seize-a-village-and-a-cement-plant-in-aleppo/|website=SOHR|accessdate=18 October 2014}}</ref> They also captured the Aleppo Glass Factory<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/battle-map-saa-captures-many-areas-aleppo/#prettyPhoto|title=Battle Map: SAA Captures Many Areas in Aleppo|author=Leith Fadel|work=Al-Masdar News|accessdate=24 October 2014}}</ref> and the next day seized the village of Al-Muslimiyya.<ref>{{cite web|title=Updated Battle Map: SAA Captures Al-Muslimiyya|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/updated-battle-map-saa-captures-al-muslimiyya/|website=almasdarnews|accessdate=19 October 2014}}</ref> | |||
| On 9 November, an UN envoy arrived in Syria to tour camps and lay out a ceasefire proposal for Aleppo. The proposal reportedly included the districts of Hanano, Bani Zaid, Salahaddine, Al-Ramouseh, Handarat, Sheikh Saeed and Al-Layramoun where the Syrian Army and the Islamic front would adhere to a ceasefire. The latter would then disarm and be safely transported to the Syrian-Turkish border.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/exclusive-aleppo-ceasefire-proposal-details-revealed/|title=Exclusive: Aleppo Ceasefire Proposal Details Revealed|publisher=Al-Masdar News|date=11 November 2014|accessdate=12 November 2014}}</ref> The ceasefire proposal was rejected by rebels by 13 November 2014 though.<ref>http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2014/11/syrian-rebels-rejects-un-aleppo-truce-plan-20141112172139629558.html</ref> | |||
| On 17 November, according to a Turkish Media Source, Jamal Marouf the leader of the FSA in Aleppo fled to Turkey, withdrawing with him over 14,000 Opposition troops. As a result the FSA has lost control over the Bab al-Hawa border gate with Turkey, which is now under Ahrar al-Sham control.<ref>http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/free-syrian-army-abandons-aleppo-leader-flees-to-turkey.aspx?pageID=449&nID=74455&NewsCatID=409</ref> | |||
| == Strategic analysis == | |||
| Rebel forces expanded out to the country side south of Aleppo to control sections of the M4 and M5 highway, effectively blocking ground reinforcements for the Syrian Army. Before the end of 2012, the Syrian army in Aleppo was receiving sporadic supplies and ammo replenishment by air or dangerous back roads.<ref>Dominic Evans (2 November 2012), , Reuters News Service</ref> The fall of Base 46, a large complex in the area which reinforced and supplied government troops was seen by experts as "a tactical turning point that may lead to a strategic shift" in the battle for Aleppo.<ref>Associated Press (20 November 2012) </ref> In a November 2012 intelligence report, ] described the strategic position of government forces in Aleppo as "dire", with the Free Syrian Army having them "essentially surrounded".<ref>Stratfor (21 November 2012) </ref> | |||
| On 26 November 2012, rebels captured ], further isolating government forces in Aleppo with only one uncovered route into Aleppo remaining.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.voanews.com/breaking-news/2012/11/26/syrian-rebels-seize-major-dam-in-north/ |title=Syrian Rebels Seize Major Dam in North " VOA Breaking News |publisher=Blogs.voanews.com |date=26 November 2012 |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> By late January 2013 Deputy Prime Minister ] admitted that all supply routes to Aleppo had been cut off by opposition forces, comparing the situation to the ].<ref name="Leningrad" /> By late February 2013, the Aleppo international airport was almost totally surrounded by rebel forces.<ref>{{cite web|last=Surk |first=Barbara |url=http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/feb/23/battle-syrias-aleppo-airport-intensifies/ |title=Battle for Syria's Aleppo airport intensifies |publisher=Washington Times |date=23 February 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}<br />{{cite web|url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/world/syria-rebels-seize-key-checkpoint-near-aleppo-airport-ngo-332405 |title=Syria rebels seize key checkpoint near Aleppo airport: NGO |publisher=NDTV.com |date=18 February 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}<br />{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Feb-18/206927-syria-rebels-seize-key-checkpoint-near-aleppo-airport-activists.ashx#axzz2MhLzu4oB |title=Syrian rebels push offensive for major airport|publisher=The Daily Star |date=|accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> Later, the Syrian army regained control of the strategic Tel Sheigeb town allowing them to approach the airport.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2013/03/201332145439859542.html |title=Syria army seizes key Aleppo airport road|publisher=Al Jazeera|date=|accessdate=6 July 2013}}<br />{{cite news|last=Evans |first=Dominic |url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/2013/03/01/uk-syria-crisis-idUKBRE92013C20130301 |title=Assad forces take Aleppo village, reopening supply line|publisher=Reuters|date=1 March 2013 |accessdate=6 July 2013}}</ref> In November 2013, the Syrian army retook the town of al-Safira.<ref name="http">{{cite news|title=Syrian army captures strategic town at approaches to Aleppo |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/01/us-syria-crisis-safira-idUSBRE9A00LO20131101 |work=Reuters |date=1 November 2013 |accessdate= 2 November 2013}}</ref> This opens a road for the government to support the besieged Kuweires Military Airbase and Aleppo Power Plant. | |||
| In February 2014, it was reported that the army planned to encircle Aleppo and impose a mix of blockades and truces, as well as attempt to recapture the Sheikh Najjar Industrial City in order to attempt to rebuild the economy and provide jobs.<ref name="SAAblockadeAleppo"/> As of October 2014, the army has been able to seize Sheikh Najjar, reinforce Aleppo Central Prison and capture Handaraat, thereby imposing a siege on rebel-held Aleppo. This was a difficult task, as Aleppo presented many more logistical challenges for the army, especially for pro-government groups such as Hezbollah, who would prefer fighting closer to Lebanon. Tensions came to ahead in this respect in early April 2014, when a Syrian Republican Guard officer allegedly murdered a Hezbollah commander during an argument over the opposition advance in al-Rashadin,<ref>{{cite news|title=Tensions Grow Between Hezbollah and the Syrian Regime|url=http://www.stratfor.com/sample/analysis/tensions-grow-between-hezbollah-and-syrian-regime |work=Stratfor |date=23 April 2014 |accessdate=25 April 2014}}</ref> and other pro-government militant groups sent as reinforcements such as the National Defence Force proved unreliable in combat.<ref name = "Al-Sham">{{cite web|url=http://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/aleppo-syrias-stalingrad-10290|title=Aleppo: Syria's Stalingrad?|publisher=The National Interest|accessdate=10 May 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2014/04/syria-aleppo-offensive-rebels-jabhat-nusra-regime.html#|title=West Aleppo faces unending assault|publisher=Al-Monitor|accessdate=17 April 2014}}</ref> Second, rebels control more terrain in Aleppo than in other cities, so effectively cutting off access was more difficult. Third, rebels have a strong presence in the countryside and around the border crossings with Turkey.<ref>{{cite news|title=The Siege of Aleppo? |url=http://iswsyria.blogspot.fr/2014/03/the-seige-of-aleppo.html |work=Institute for the Study of War |date=18 March 2014 |accessdate=25 March 2014}}</ref> In April 2014 government commanders inside the city were saying that on the contrary to implementing such a strategy, "the best can do in Aleppo is just secure ... positions".<ref>{{cite news|title=Aleppo Now A De Facto 'Partition City' In Syria|url=http://www.npr.org/2014/04/27/307473375/aleppo-now-a-de-facto-partition-city-in-syria |work=NPR |date=28 April 2014 |accessdate=28 April 2014}}</ref> | |||
| Little by little, the SAA has taken control of the surrounding districts in Aleppo City with help from the Syrian Air Force, who carries multiple air raids each day on Islamic Front positions all around the western part of the province. The brief rebel offensive that targeted the Al-Zahra Quarter in west Aleppo was quickly repelled by the SAA and National Defense Forces (NDF), despite the infiltration by the former into the Air Force Intelligence neighborhood. | |||
| With the capture of the Sheikh Najjar (Industrial Zone) and Handarat Districts, the SAA has launched a new wave of attacks that seek to envelop the Islamic Front and cutoff their last supply route into the city. The encirclement can be seen in the map above, which depicts the SAA’s current attacks on Bustan Al-Pasha, Khalidiyyeh, and the farms of Mazra’a Halabi in the north; while in the south, the SAA is on the offensive at Al-Amariyya and Bustan Al-Qaseer. The Islamic Front has fought hard to hold their positions in the Handarat District’s vicinity; however, the absence of reinforcements and supplies has left many rebels demoralized and hopeless in the area.<ref>http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/aleppo-battle-map-saa-prepares-envelop-city/</ref> | |||
| == Reactions == | |||
| === Domestic reaction === | |||
| * {{flagu|Syria}} – President ] said on the occasion of the 67th anniversary of the Syrian Arab Army in August 2012, that "the army is engaged in a crucial and heroic battle... on which the destiny of the nation and its people rests..."<ref>{{cite news|title=Syria army in 'crucial and heroic battle', says Bashar al-Assad |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/9443296/Syria-army-in-crucial-and-heroic-battle-says-Bashar-al-Assad.html |work=The Daily Telegraph |date=1 August 2012 |accessdate=23 September 2012 |location=London}}</ref> | |||
| === Foreign reactions === | |||
| * {{flagu|Armenia}} – Armenia began sending humanitarian aid to Aleppo in mid-October.<ref>{{cite news|title=Armenian Humanitarian Aircraft Lands in Aleppo |url=http://www.turkishweekly.net/news/143669/armenian-humanitarian-aircraft-lands-in-aleppo.html |publisher=] |date=16 October 2012 |accessdate=13 November 2012}}</ref> The aid is distributed by Red Crescent, the Armenian National Prelacy in Aleppo, Aleppo Emergency unit and the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia to Syria. Governor of the Aleppo Governorate, Hilal Hial, said, "the Syrian people highly appreciate this humanitarian gesture of the Armenian people, underling the strong Syrian-Armenian cooperation."<ref>{{cite news|title=The Governor of Aleppo and al-Baath Arab Socialist Party expressed their gratitude to the Armenians for the humanitarian aid |url=http://armenpress.am/eng/news/699119/the-governor-of-aleppo-and-al-baath-arab-socialist-party-expressed-their-gratitude-to-the-armenians.html |publisher=] |date=13 November 2012 |accessdate=13 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * {{flagu|France}} – The ] said, "With the build-up of heavy weapons around Aleppo, Assad is preparing to carry out a fresh slaughter of his own people", while Italy and the UN peacekeeping chief also accused the government of preparing to massacre civilians.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://english.alarabiya.net/articles/2012/07/27/228747.html |title=Red Cross to pull some staff out of Syria as world powers fear Aleppo 'slaughter' |date=27 July 2012 |publisher=Al Arabiya |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * {{flagu|Iran}} – As the battle of Aleppo started, ], the head of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, met with Assad in Damascus and vowed that Iran would help Assad to confront "attempts at blatant foreign interference" in Syria's internal affairs, declaring, "Iran will not allow the axis of resistance, of which it considers Syria to be an essential part, to be broken in any way."<ref>{{cite news|author=Babak Dehghanpisheh and Liz Sly |url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/syrias-bashar-al-assad-makes-rare-appearance-with-visiting-iranian/2012/08/07/614c2836-e094-11e1-8fc5-a7dcf1fc161d_story.html |title=Iran pledges support for Syria as battle rages for Aleppo |publisher=Washington Post|date=7 August 2012 |accessdate=2 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * {{flagu|Russia}} – The Russian Foreign Ministry issued an official statement condemning the bombing that occurred on 9 September 2012 in which more than 30 people were killed. "We firmly condemn the terrorist acts which claim the lives of innocent people", stated the Ministry on 11 September. The Foreign Ministry also called the foreign powers to pressure the armed opposition to halt launching "terrorist attacks".<ref name="SANA0911">{{cite news|title=Russia Condemns Terrorist Acts in Aleppo, Calls for Immediate Halt of Violence |url=http://sana.sy/eng/22/2012/09/11/441013.htm |agency=Syrian Arab News Agency|date=11 September 2012 |accessdate=11 September 2012}}</ref> The Russian Consulate General in Aleppo "suspended operations" on 16 January 2013.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2013/01/15/world/syria-civil-war/ |title=Moscow suspends consular operations in Aleppo |publisher=Edition.cnn.com |date= 16 January 2013|accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| * {{flagu|Turkey}} – Turkish Prime Minister ] urged international action, saying it was not possible "to remain a spectator" to the government offensive on Aleppo.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/topic/syria/world-cannot-remain-spectators-over-aleppo-turkish-pm |title=World cannot 'remain spectators' over Aleppo: Turkish PM |date=28 July 2012 |publisher=Al Jazeera |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> Reuters reported that Turkey had set up a base with allies Saudi Arabia and Qatar for the purpose of directing military and communications aid to the Free Syrian Army from the city of ]. Reuters also quoted a Doha-based source which stated that Turkey, Qatar and Saudi Arabia were providing weapons and training to the rebel fighters.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/07/27/us-syria-crisis-centre-idUSBRE86Q0JM20120727 |title=Secret Turkish nerve center leads aid to Syria rebels |publisher=Reuters |author=Regan Doherty and Amena Bakr |accessdate=29 July 2012|date=29 July 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * {{flagu|United Kingdom}} – ], the ], said, "the world must speak out to avert a massacre in Aleppo."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.aljazeera.com/topic/syria/world-must-speak-out-avert-massacre-aleppo-says-uk-foreign-minister |title="World must speak out to avert a massacre in Aleppo," says UK foreign minister. |publisher=Al Jazeera |date=27 July 2012 |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> | |||
| * {{flagu|United States}} – The United States said it feared a new massacre in Aleppo by the government: "This is the concern: that we will see a massacre in Aleppo and that's what the regime appears to be lining up for."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/07/20127272474928594.html |title=US fears Syria planning massacre in Aleppo |date=27 July 2012 |publisher=Al Jazeera |accessdate=29 July 2012}}</ref> The United States condemned "in the strongest possible terms" the government SCUD missile strikes on Aleppo in late February, saying that they were "the latest of the Syrian regime's ruthlessness and its lack of compassion for the Syrian people it claims to represent".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/nowsyrialatestnews/us-condemns-syria-slaughter |title=US condemns Syria slaughter |publisher=Now.mmedia.me |date= |accessdate=29 August 2013}}</ref> | |||
| == References == | |||
| {{Reflist|30em}} | |||
| {{Syrian civil war}} | |||
| {{Coord|36|13|N|37|10|E|display=title|region:SY_type:city}} | |||
| {{DEFAULTSORT:Battle of Aleppo (2012)}} | |||
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