A week after the surprise capture of the Syrian city of Aleppo, the city is gradually returning to normal life. This was reported by the Reuters agency, based on the videos and testimonies of some of the residents. The agency notes that the night curfew has been canceled, shops are selling bread again, and the Internet connection has improved. On November 27, militants led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group launched an attack, capturing Aleppo, and on December 5, also Homs. "Hayat Tahrir al-Sham" is recognized as terrorist by the United States, Turkey, Russia, and the United Nations. The group has been trying to change perceptions about itself for years.
According to analysts, with the measures taken in Aleppo, the group is trying to show that it is a viable alternative to the government of President Bashar al-Assad. Seeking to reassure Aleppo residents, including minorities, journalists and civil servants, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham issued statements via text messages saying their control of the city would not put them at risk.
The group also vowed that basic services would continue, Reuters said, adding that Christians mostly stayed in the city and held mass on Sunday, which was also attended by some militants.
At the same time, Reuters notes that garbage is still piled up on the streets of Aleppo. Residents are afraid that they will not have enough water or gas to heat their homes. Residents noted that they are happy that life continues. markets, bakeries and gas stations are open, despite long queues and high prices.
Reuters also notes that according to the videos, "Hayat Tahrir al-Sham" provides the soldiers of the Syrian government forces with a special temporary card that protects them from possible punishment. Dozens of government forces have formed queues in front of the centers issuing such cards. Masked militants in black uniforms work in those centers.
