Syrian government forces and rebel fighters have clashed again in some areas, just hours before an initial team of six UN ceasefire monitors arrived in Damascus.

A handout image released by the official Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) shows smoke billowing in the Aleppo district of Izaa.

Their deployment comes as clashes erupted in central Homs province. Both the government and the opposition have accused each other of truce violations.

Syria's Ministry of Defense says it will stop "armed terrorist groups" from continuing criminal acts in the country, stressing the government has the responsibility to protect citizens and preserve the country's security.