Why did Syria's opposition forces choose now to attack?

Source: Al Jazeera December 7, 2024

Syrian opposition fighters, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have launched a major offensive, capturing most of Aleppo in their first significant advance since the city was retaken by government forces in 2016.

This move follows frustration over stagnant conflict lines and aims to pressure the Assad regime. External factors, like Turkey's backing of rebel groups and Assad's weakened allies (Iran and Russia), have also contributed to the timing of the assault. The offensive marks a dramatic shift in Syria's ongoing civil war dynamics.