Syrian opposition chief negotiator Mohammed Alloush said that the Iran-backed Shia militants currently fighting against the Sunni opposition in Syria are no difference from the Islamic States (IS) terrorist groups.
The remarks came during the first round of meeting between Syria opposition group and representatives from the Syrian regime kicked off Monday in Astana to participate in the negotiations on a political solution to the conflict in Syria, which has left more than 250,000 people dead since 2011.
“We seek ceasefire and immediate freeze of military operations throughout Syria. We call on all parts to abide by the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254, which calls for a ceasefire and political settlement in Syria.” said Alloush.
The talks, backed by Russia and Turkey, are the first between the two warring sides in a year. The talks are expected to focus on consolidating a shaky ceasefire that has been in place since December 30.
Kazakh Foreign Minister Kairat Abdrakhmanov who delivered an opening speech, said that “negotiations” are the only and best way to end conflict in Syria.
Syrian U.N. ambassador Bashar al-Jaafari heads delegates representing the Syrian government in the peace talks.
Rebel spokesman Yehya al-Aridi said that the opposition was backing out of the first direct talks because of the government’s continued bombardment and attacks on a flashpoint area near Damascus.
“We will not enter into any political discussions and everything revolves over abiding by the cease-fire and the humanitarian dimension of easing the suffering of Syrians under siege and release of detainees and delivery of aid,” al-Aridi said.