AlBab

Al Bab is a city in northern Syria, located approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) east of Aleppo. It is the administrative center of the Al-Bab District within the Aleppo Governorate. Historically, the city has been a significant agricultural and trade hub in the region. Its strategic location has made it a point of interest throughout various conflicts.

The name "Al Bab" is believed to derive from the Arabic word for "gate" or "door," possibly referencing its historical importance as a gateway or a point of entry into the region. The city has a long history, with evidence of settlement dating back centuries. Over time, it has been part of various empires and states that have controlled Syria.

In recent years, Al Bab gained international attention due to its involvement in the Syrian Civil War. The city was captured by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) before being retaken by Turkish-backed Syrian opposition forces in February 2017 as part of Operation Euphrates Shield. This military intervention aimed to clear ISIL from the border region and push back Kurdish forces. Since then, the security situation in and around Al Bab has remained complex, with ongoing efforts to stabilize the area and provide humanitarian assistance to its residents. The population of Al Bab consists primarily of Arabs, with a significant portion of its pre-war population displaced by the conflict.