On November 28, 2024, the Syrian opposition factions launched Operation "Deterrence of Aggression" against Bashar al-Assad's forces, Iranian-backed militias, Hezbollah, and Iraqi militias operating in northwestern Syria, particularly in the areas of Aleppo, Aleppo countryside, Idlib, and Idlib countryside.

This operation was a response to the ongoing escalation of attacks by the Assad regime and its allies on opposition-controlled areas. The opposition factions targeted the foreign-backed forces fighting alongside Assad, particularly Iranian militias and Hezbollah, rather than regular Syrian forces.

In retaliation, Russian and Syrian air forces launched heavy airstrikes on civilian areas in Idlib and Aleppo, leading to significant civilian casualties and widespread destruction of infrastructure. The already dire humanitarian situation in these regions worsened, with large-scale displacement and lack of basic necessities for the affected population.