The ceasefire in Syria that came into effect on Monday evening is largely holding on its first full day, with no civilian deaths reported in the initial 15 hours, according to the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
Residents in the divided city of Aleppo reported calm after months of heavy fighting. However, sporadic attacks by both government forces and rebels were recorded late on Monday, including aerial bombardment in Hama province and shelling near Damascus.
The Syrian government has said the truce will apply across the country for seven days, but reserves the right to respond to any violations. Rebel factions have given a guarded welcome, expressing reservations about implementation.
Humanitarian groups are poised to deliver aid to besieged areas, particularly Aleppo, where an estimated 250,000 civilians are trapped. UN officials said convoys were ready to travel from Turkey but required better guarantees of peace.
The deal, brokered by the US and Russia, is seen as a crucial test of diplomatic efforts. If it holds for seven days, the two powers will carry out co-ordinated strikes against jihadist groups. More than 300,000 people have died since the conflict began in 2011.
