Syrian President, Bashar al-Assad said de-escalation zones proposed by Russia is a chance for rebels to reconcile with Damascus and drive out militants. <br/><br/>In an interview with Belarusian TV Channel, he said, his primary aim is to protect civilians. He said rebels should help drive jihadist groups out of the de-escalation zones. <br/><br/>Russia's proposal for zones took effect last week, covering areas in the west of the country. <br/><br/>However, Syria's opposition rejected the Russian plan, calling it a threat to the country's territorial integrity.