Syria ‘cease-fire’: Lull before the storm

The partial “cease-fire” negotiated by the US and Moscow appears bound to fall apart at any moment as parties in the Syria war prepare for a renewal of fighting.

 

The deal that began last week allowed the war to continue at a slow boil against Islamic State and al-Qaida’s Nusra Front, but could soon reignite full force if either side is unhappy with the status quo.

 

And there are a plethora of signs that both sides are preparing for such an eventuality.

 

On Sunday, Russia’s Defense Ministry said the cease-fire had been violated 15 times in the past 24 hours.

 

Since the partial truce went into effect at midnight on February 28, 135 people have been killed in areas covered by the deal, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Saturday, highlighting its fragile nature as plans to continue peace talks continue to be delayed.

 

Read More: Syria ‘cease-fire’: Lull before the storm – Middle East – Jerusalem Post