Nearly 100 rebel groups sign up to Syrian ceasefire deal

YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 26, ARMENPRESS. The Syrian opposition High Negotiations Committee (HNC) said on February 26 that nearly 100 rebel groups agreed to the recently negotiated Russian-US ceasefire in the Arab republic, “Armenpress” reports citing Sputniknews website.

As co-chairs ofthe International Syria Support Group (ISSG), Moscow and Washington announced a plan foraceasefirebetween the Syrian government and rebel forces starting this Saturday.

The ceasefire does not apply toDaesh jihadist group or other designated terrorist organizations, including al-Nusra Front.

The HNC confirms the acceptance amongthe Free Syrian Army and the armed opposition toadhere toa temporary truce starting atmidnight onFebruary 27 forthe duration oftwo weeks," the HNC said ina statement.

The agreement was reached after "negotiations with97 opposition groups," the committee said, withoutnaming the exact rebel forces.

Earlier this week, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Gennady Gatilov told RIA Novosti that Russia and the United States were intalks overthe preparation ofthe draft UN Security Council resolution. The draft will reportedly be put upfor a vote onFebruary 26.