Rebel forces have intensified their offensive in Aleppo, Syria, capturing key landmarks in the city, which is the country’s second largest. This resurgence of opposition activity marks the first significant assault on Aleppo since 2016, when President Bashar al-Assad's government regained full control. Reports indicate that airstrikes conducted late Friday resulted in the deaths of 20 insurgent fighters, while the Syrian army has acknowledged substantial losses among its ranks since the offensive began on Wednesday.

Celebrations erupted among rebel fighters outside Aleppo's historic citadel, with one fighter expressing deep emotional ties to the city, recalling the loss of his brother in the conflict 13 years prior. The ongoing clashes highlight the fragile state of security in the region, as government forces attempt to repel the advancing rebels.

In Gaza, violence escalated with an Israeli airstrike that killed five individuals, including charity workers from World Central Kitchen, which has now paused its operations in the area for the second time this year following previous attacks that claimed the lives of its staff. The situation remains dire, with reports of over 30 fatalities in Gaza overnight, as residents face relentless bombardment.

Meanwhile, in southern Lebanon, an Israeli drone strike resulted in two deaths and multiple injuries, including a child, as tensions continue to simmer along the border. Despite sporadic incidents, a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah appears to be holding.

In Georgia, protests erupted for a third consecutive night in Tbilisi against the government's decision to halt discussions on joining the European Union. Approximately 1,000 demonstrators gathered outside parliament, leading to the arrest of 107 individuals by police amid ongoing unrest following disputed parliamentary elections last month.