Hadi al-Bahra, president of the Syrian Coalition, said that the UN ‘freeze zones’ proposals should be part of a comprehensive, political solution to end the conflict. “Our number one priority is to save Syrian lives, and we are waiting with interest for further details of Staffan de Mistura’s plan before giving our full response. The lives of Syrians are our top priority but we need to look at this from a strategic point of view,” Mr Al Bahra told The Guardian. “Ceasefires and limiting existing violence provide a temporary solution but not a permanent resolution of the crisis. Ceasefires without a clear vision for a full and comprehensive political solution will give the regime time to regroup and reorganize itself to continue its crimes against the Syrian people at a later stage.” In the meantime, the Syrian Coalition continues to endorse the Geneva Communique’s road map for a political transition starting with the formation of a transitional governing body with full executive powers, including over military and security structures, where Assad, and those with blood on their hands, will have no role whatsoever. (Source: Syrian Coalition)