Syrian regime forces took control of half of Handarat village in the north of Aleppo on Wednesday, as fighting continues to rage in and around the village. Zaman al-Wasl’s sources denied recent reports the regime had taken full control of the strategic village.
Pro-regime forces launched a counter attack on Handarat early on Wednesday, seeking to cut off supply lines rebels have used to transport aid into the city of Aleppo.
Reuters reported that the Assad army had captured Handarat after 10 days of fierce fighting with Al-Qaeda's Syrian wing, the Nusra Front, along with other Islamist brigades. But local activists have denied the reports, saying the fight is ongoing, admitting that the regime army controls 50 percent of the village.
Aleppo city is divided between the Syrian military, backed by pro-regime militias, and a range of insurgent groups including Al-Qaeda's Nusra Front, Islamist brigades and Western-backed rebels.
UN Syria envoy Staffan de Mistura is attempting to enact a local ceasefire in Aleppo city to allow access for urgent humanitarian assistance.
Insurgent-held districts have been flattened by Syrian air force bombardments, including barrel bombs – crude explosive devices packed with shrapnel and nails.
