Forces of Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad walk near the glass factory in Jubaila village in the countryside of north-east Aleppo after regaining control of the area October 19, 2014.

The Syrian regime army has reportedly advanced in the rebel-held areas around Aleppo in a bid to fully besiege the northwestern city, opposition sources and activists reported Monday.

Sources said the army has managed to gain control over strategic posts in Aleppo suburbs with the help of Iranian, Lebanese and Afghan militias.

The town of al-Jubaila, along with a glass factory and a cement plant near Aleppo’s central prison, have fallen under the grip of Assad’s militias, sources added.

Activists said the Syrian regime’s recent gains indicate that the city of Aleppo, once the economic hub of Syria, could soon be subject to a dreadful siege.

Opposition fighters suggest the regime is gaining ground in the area by using toxic gases after failing to win over the armed opposition with conventional weapons.

Aleppo became a key battleground in the fight between Syrian rebels and government forces after the uprising against Assad erupted in 2011.

 
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