Rebel groups laud truce but vow to defend area

BEIRUT: The two main groups controlling Syria’s rebel enclave of eastern Ghouta have welcomed the UN demand for a ceasefire, but vowed to fight back in case of renewed attacks.

Rebel groups Jaish al-Islam and Faylaq al-Rahman issued separate statements late Saturday after the ceasefire demand, following seven days of ferocious regime bombardment.

The resolution, adopted after repeated delays, did not specify when the truce would go into force but said it should be implemented “without delay” to allow for humanitarian aid deliveries and medical evacuations.

“Jaish al-Islam is committed to protecting humanitarian convoys that will enter Ghouta,” the group said in a statement.

But it warned that its fighters will “immediately respond to any violation” committed by regime forces.

Faylaq al-Rahman echoed that position.

“We confirm our full commitment to the (UN) resolution... Nevertheless, we reserve the right to defend the civilians of eastern Ghouta in case of renewed attacks,” it said in a statement.

Both Faylaq al-Rahman and Jaish al-Islam are factions founded in 2013.

The have taken part in Syria peace talks in Geneva, which were brokered by the United Nations, and in the Kazakh capital Astana, organised by regime allies Russia and Iran and rebel backer Turkey.