After nearly fours years of sustained and bloody fighting, there may finally be the slightest glimmer of hope for the remaining citizens who still cling to life in the ruined ancient city of Aleppo. According to Steffan de Mistura, the United Nations Envoy to Syria, the regime of President Bashar Al Assad has given an indication that it may be prepared for a ceasefire in and around the city for a period of six weeks.

While the talk of a ceasefire is still very tentative, it is the first positive sign to emerge from Syria in months that some relief may be on the way and there is at least a glimmer of hope that humanitarian relief can be delivered to Aleppo.

The freezing of hostilities will be a temporary respite from the constant artillery barrages and barrel bombs that have killed thousands and brought the citadel city to ruins. De Mistura is briefing the Security Council in a closed session, but so far, there is no indication of when the suspension of air strikes will begin. In all of the darkness that has embraced Syria, there is at least a ray of light.