Hopes and fears for the Syria ceasefire

he US and Russia announce ceasefire in Syria Truce takes effect at midnight, 27 February Excludes action against ISIL, the al-Qaeda-linked Nusra front and other militants Critics say this loophole will allow attacks to continue The United Nations Monitoring the ceasefire in Syria could be a big challenge for the United Nations. However, officials admit monitoring the truce could be a big challenge. Vitit Muntarbhorn from the UN Commission of Inquiry on Syria said: “We hope that all three elements will be well-implemented, bearing in mind that, for us, in regards to humanitarian access to besieged areas, and also the need to release those who are arbitrarily detained such as women, children – these elements are not conditional.” “They should take place immediately in terms of access to besieged areas as well as release of women, children and the aged.”