Istanbul: Syrian opposition groups have taken control of Aleppo and other regions in Syria to protect civilians from attacks by the Bashar al-Assad regime, according to Hadi Al Bahra, president of the National Coalition of Syrian Revolution and Opposition Forces (SMDK). Speaking at a press conference in Istanbul, Al Bahra highlighted the necessity of these actions following years of oppression by regime forces and Iranian militias. According to Anadolu Agency, Al Bahra noted that regime airstrikes on civilians reached an alarming frequency, with 52 strikes documented in a single day in November. As attacks on the Syrian populace increase, there has been a noticeable decline in humanitarian aid. He also mentioned that shifting policies in countries like Lebanon are leading to rights violations and increased returns to liberated areas. Al Bahra explained that the rapid population growth in liberated regions is surpassing the existing infrastructure. "These developments forced Syrians into military confrontati on," he said. The operations aim to stop regime attacks on liberated areas and establish a deterrent stance against hostile forces by liberating areas that are sources of attacks. Al Bahra further elaborated on the goals of the Syrian opposition forces, which include liberating cities, towns, and villages for civilians who have lost access to essential services, ensuring military security, and paving the way for people to return to their homes. He stressed the importance of reviving the political process in accordance with UN Security Council Resolutions 2118 and 2254, criticizing international negligence for prolonging Syrian suffering. Highlighting the coordination with the Syrian National Army (SNA) in Aleppo, Al Bahra assured that the SNA prioritizes civilian safety. He emphasized the protection of public and private properties in Aleppo and the resumption of work by public employees. He reaffirmed that the Syrian revolution is rooted in moral principles and aims to achieve victory through morality. Al Bahra reiterated the SMDK's commitment to safeguarding the rights of all ethnicities and groups in Syria. He emphasized that the primary goal is to find stability within Syria, avoiding further migration or asylum crises. Clashes between Assad regime forces and armed opposition groups in rural areas of Aleppo last Wednesday marked a renewed escalation in the conflict, which began in 2011.