DHAKA: Eleven Islamist rebel groups in Syria have announced they do not recognise the authority of the main opposition alliance, the National Coalition.

A joint statement says, ‘All groups formed abroad without having returned to the country do not represent us’.

They also call for the opposition to unite under an ‘Islamic framework’, reports the BBC.

Islamist rebel forces have become increasing prominent in the conflict in Syria, and they are believed to command tens of thousands of fighters.

It comes amid fighting on the ground between the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIS), an offshoot of al-Qaeda, and more moderate rebel forces, especially in areas along Syria’s northern and eastern borders.

BDST: 1755 HRS, SEPT 25, 2013
RoR/SRS