The United States, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom have jointly called for an immediate de-escalation in Syria following a surge in violence as rebel forces launched an offensive against government-controlled areas. The renewed clashes have intensified the 13-year-long conflict, leaving civilians caught in the crossfire.

Over the weekend, an alliance of Syrian rebel factions, led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), reportedly seized control of Aleppo, a key city in northern Syria. In response, Syrian President Bashar Assad announced a counteroffensive, supported by airstrikes from his government and its ally, Russia.

Airstrikes on the rebel-held city of Idlib early Monday left at least 25 people dead, according to the opposition-run White Helmets rescue organization. The Syrian Army also reported recapturing several towns from the advancing rebels.

The rebel forces, which began their offensive on November 27, have since moved southward into Hama Province after their victory in Aleppo, raising concerns about further destabilization in the region.

In a joint statement issued late Sunday, the US, UK, France, and Germany urged all parties to protect civilians and critical infrastructure to prevent further displacement and disruption of humanitarian aid.

"The current escalation only underscores the urgent need for a Syrian-led political solution to the conflict," the statement read, referencing UN Security Council Resolution 2254, which calls for peace talks between the Syrian government and opposition forces.

The recent escalation has reignited fears of a broader humanitarian crisis, with international actors emphasizing the importance of dialogue and restraint to prevent further suffering in the war-torn nation.