In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the escalating conflict in Syria, highlighting the significant territorial gains made by non-state actors, including the terrorist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the Syrian National Army (SNA). These groups now exert control over regions inhabited by approximately 7 million people, including the strategic city of Aleppo, Syria's second-largest urban center.

On November 27, a coalition of HTS and armed opposition groups launched a coordinated ground operation, supported by drone cover, which resulted in the capture of nearly all of Aleppo and Idlib governorates. In response, Syrian government forces have attempted to establish defensive positions in Hama, a city with a population of around 1 million, but these defenses are reportedly under severe pressure as HTS and allied forces continue to advance.

The situation has been exacerbated by intensified airstrikes from pro-government forces, targeting both military and civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, leading to civilian casualties. Reports indicate that as HTS and armed opposition groups have gained ground, they have launched drone and rocket attacks, further contributing to the rising toll on civilians in Aleppo and Hama.

Additionally, on November 30, the SNA initiated an operation in Tal Rifaat, a region north of Aleppo, which is controlled by Syrian government-affiliated forces. This offensive has resulted in significant territorial shifts, with many fighters and tens of thousands of civilians evacuating to northeastern Syria.

The meeting also addressed ongoing tensions in the northeast, where the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have taken control of seven militias previously aligned with government forces, citing an imminent threat from the Islamic State (ISIL). This move was reportedly supported by the US-led international coalition. As hostilities continue to escalate between the SNA and SDF, the potential for further conflict remains high, underscoring the volatile and complex nature of the situation in Syria.