Despite glimpses of hope, the mood in Aleppo remains muted as families reunite amid fears of renewed violence, following a significant capture by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) activists. Abdulkafi, an English teacher, joyously embraced his ailing father for the first time in years, exemplifying the bittersweet nature of reconnecting with loved ones. However, the atmosphere in the city is laden with apprehension, with many residents expressing unease about the potential for warfare to resume.
Interviews reveal a complex tapestry of emotions as people grapple with gratitude towards HTS for basic services like electricity and water, and simultaneous concerns about their safety and freedom. Many describe a constant state of nervousness, fearing airstrikes from the government, which have already claimed numerous lives, as reported by human rights organizations. This persistent anxiety is echoed by those who tread carefully in public, wary of surveillance and retribution by the regime, should they reestablish control.
While some residents observed that rebels were treating the local populace with respect, others remained skeptical. An anonymous citizen shared their trepidation, recounting memories of bombings that left lasting scars on the community. The absence of a peaceful coexistence, coupled with the psychological impact of past violence, means that fear prevails over hope.
Reports from various individuals indicate a struggle to adjust, noting that the local Christians have yet to see direct threats from HTS. However, their apprehension regarding HTS's historic reputation for violence against minorities looms large. Confusion and uncertainty ripple through the community as people attempt to decipher the rebels’ promises of moderation, recalling past events where initial safety morphed into persecution.
Despite some optimism about life under HTS, there remains a deep-rooted wariness. Individuals increasingly stockpile resources, uncertain of what comes next. As life oscillates between moments of familial joy and the haunting specter of conflict, the people of Aleppo stand firm between hope and reality, navigating the delicate balance of rebuilding lives in a fragile environment.
Interviews reveal a complex tapestry of emotions as people grapple with gratitude towards HTS for basic services like electricity and water, and simultaneous concerns about their safety and freedom. Many describe a constant state of nervousness, fearing airstrikes from the government, which have already claimed numerous lives, as reported by human rights organizations. This persistent anxiety is echoed by those who tread carefully in public, wary of surveillance and retribution by the regime, should they reestablish control.
While some residents observed that rebels were treating the local populace with respect, others remained skeptical. An anonymous citizen shared their trepidation, recounting memories of bombings that left lasting scars on the community. The absence of a peaceful coexistence, coupled with the psychological impact of past violence, means that fear prevails over hope.
Reports from various individuals indicate a struggle to adjust, noting that the local Christians have yet to see direct threats from HTS. However, their apprehension regarding HTS's historic reputation for violence against minorities looms large. Confusion and uncertainty ripple through the community as people attempt to decipher the rebels’ promises of moderation, recalling past events where initial safety morphed into persecution.
Despite some optimism about life under HTS, there remains a deep-rooted wariness. Individuals increasingly stockpile resources, uncertain of what comes next. As life oscillates between moments of familial joy and the haunting specter of conflict, the people of Aleppo stand firm between hope and reality, navigating the delicate balance of rebuilding lives in a fragile environment.
