Syrian Army advances in Aleppo after launch of offensive

Aleppo, Syria (6:34 P.M.) - Less than 24 hours after the announcement of the Aleppo offensive aimed at capturing the rebel-held districts of east Aleppo, government forces were able to secure the Ramousah-'Amiriyah highway and its intersection following consistent advances around Al-Badawi mosque in 'Amiriyah.

Preceding this advance were 8 intense hours of violent clashes on the Ramousah Bakery axis. This sensitive advance places the Syrian Army forces on the outskirts of Sukkari district, the militants' administrative hub in the embattled city.

Moreover, government troops now have fire control over the jihadist forces in the aforementioned areas.

Notably, opposition forces suggested that Jabhat Fath Al-Sham (formerly Jabhat Al-Nusra) is relocating many of its fighters from all jihadist-held Aleppo and massing them at Sukkari where they have imposed a curfew.

Meanwhile, Syrian helicopters dropped thousands of leaflets atop east Aleppo neighborhoods calling on militants to turn themselves in before it becomes too late.

The Syrian Army and its allies are expected to capture and fortify Sadkop at any time. Securing this region will enable its use as a launchpad for operations on Sukkari and Sheikh Sa'eed.

Whatever the future holds for east Aleppo, it incontestably doesn't bode well for the jihadist forces- especially following the harrowing defeat at the artillery base.

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