ALEPPO, Syria — Fighting fronts exploded in Aleppo following a relative calm that prevailed for almost a month. Planes kept roaming the skies over the city and its countryside despite the harsh weather conditions and the snow, while clashes were ongoing.

The regime forces, with Hezbollah and Iran’s unhidden support, wanted to resolve the battle in Aleppo, particularly in its northern countryside, which is the largest opposition stronghold. Despite the sudden progress that was made by the regime forces, it can be argued that the plan, in preparation for months, has failed to achieve the regime’s political and military goals. The regime and its allies have suffered heavy losses in the offensive.

The events began at 6 a.m. Feb. 17 as regime forces conducted a surprise attack against opposition forces. The offensive was only covered by the Hezbollah-run Al-Manar news channel, which may confirm Hezbollah’s significant role in this battle. The offensive was conducted from several positions at the same time, with the objective of confusing the opposition forces and distracting them from the offensive’s main goal.

The al-Aziza, al-Rashidin and al-Zahraa fronts witnessed fierce clashes that did not result in the advance or retreat of any of the parties. The main and most violent offensive took place in the northern countryside of Aleppo, starting from two fronts. With the help of their allies, the regime forces and Hezbollah managed to breach and infiltrate into the opposition defenses and take control of the towns of Bashkoy, Ratyan and Hardetneen.