UN backs Syria envoy's ceasefire bid

UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The Security Council on Wednesday unanimously endorsed a temporary cease-fire proposed by the U.N.-Arab League envoy to Syria during this weekend’s Muslim Eid al-Adha holiday, agreeing that it could break the cycle of violence and provide space for a political transition to begin in the war-torn nation.

In a press statement approved by all 15 members, the U.N.’s most powerful body, which has been deeply divided over Syria, called on all regional and international actors to support a cease-fire in Syria and to use their influence on President Bashar Assad’s government and opposition fighters to end the violence.