Russia, Iran, Turkey agree on establishing 'de-escalation zones' in Syria

Astana [Kazakhstan], May 5 (ANI): Russia, Iran and Turkey have agreed to establish four "de-escalation zones" in war-torn Syria during talks in Kazakhstan's capital, Astana. A memorandum in this regard was signed between these countries on Thursday. However, Syrian armed opposition's delegation did not sign the memorandum and stormed out in protest against Iran's participation in the deal. They are protesting the role of Iran as a guarantor of the agreement, accusing it of fuelling the sectarian nature of the conflict. The agreement is the latest attempt to reduce violence in the Arab country and would go into effect on Saturday. According to the agreement, the de-escalation zones include the provinces of Idlib, areas north of Homs, the eastern Ghouta suburbs outside Damascus, and an area in the south of the country. The memorandum calls for a pause in fighting, including government airstrikes and for unhindered aid deliveries in and around the four main zones still held by rebels unaffiliated with the Islamic State, the New York Times reported. The memorandum also calls for all parties to fight terror groups like the Islamic State and the Qaeda-linked group once known as the Nusra Front. (ANI)