Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham Forces Capture Aleppo Airport, Assad Issues Statement

The Syrian army has reported losing dozens of soldiers in the largest attack in recent years by the Islamist group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). On the day before, the group stormed Aleppo. By Sunday morning, it became clear that HTS forces had seized control of the local airport, Reuters reported.

Troops loyal to the country’s president, Bashar al-Assad, have relocated from the city. In support of the Syrian army, Russian military forces carried out strikes against HTS positions.

The United States has issued a statement saying it is closely monitoring the situation in Syria. A representative from the U.S. National Security Council, Sean Savett, stated that the current crisis stems from Syria’s refusal to participate in the political process and its reliance on Russia and Iran.

On Sunday night, Assad made a statement regarding HTS’s advances. He reassured the public that the army, with its allies’ support, could handle the threat.