LOC19:27
16:27 GMT
AMMAN, Jan 19 (KUNA) -- The Syrian opposition declared on Thursday reaching a cease-fire with the regime to halt fighting in Wadi Baradah, a low land which secures much of the water consumed by the capital population.
Opposition-run websites reported that the truce went into effect tonight, following negotiations among the involved parties, with German mediation, adding that the guns had actually fallen silent on all the frontlines in the water-rich, lush region, located on outskirts of the capital.
According to the reported deal, gunmen who refuse the deal will be allowed to move to the opposition-controlled Idlib region in the north. Those who opt to stay must hand over their guns to the Syrian authorities.
The Syrian-operated monitor also reported that calm was generally prevailing in the valley and that a UN delegation arrived in the region to help organize exit of gunmen from the area.
Russia and Turkey have recently worked out a truce that went into effect on most of the frontlines. However, on-and-off fighting has continued in some regions, namely Wadi Baradah and Deir Ezzor, Northeast Syria, where Islamic militants reportedly gained ground and sealed off a key air facility for the regime. (end)
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