What a Syrian 'cessation' would mean

In Syria , a partial ceasefire - or "cessation of hostilities" - comes into effect on 27 February, but it's not going to bring about a total end to the conflict.

The Syrian government, the main opposition grouping and Kurdish militias say they will observe the pause in fighting, but major armed groups may endanger the "cessation".

All parties agree the so-called Islamic State (IS) group and the al-Qaeda-linked Nusra Front will still be fought; while other factions fear they may also be targeted amid the confusing Syrian situation.

BBC Monitoring explains why a cessation of hostilities is a tough task.

Created by Alexi Peristianis in consultation with Sara Fayyad and Roj Ranjbar.