Syrian government forces say they are advancing against Islamic State in Aleppo province, although the main opposition says 'moderate' rebels are also being targeted. ..

While the fight with Islamic State continues, the U.N. says a nationwide 'cessation of hostilities' between government forces and opposition groups that came into force three days ago is largely holding.

The army's made advances here against IS and has regained control of a key road that leads to a major prize… the northern city of Aleppo.

Syrian state TV says government forces are clearing the road of mines..

But Syria's main opposition says the government is violating the truce by simultaneously attacking opposition forces considered 'moderate' by the West and which WERE part of the original cessation deal.

The truce is not a formal ceasefire -- it's meant to allow peace talks to resume and for aid to reach besieged communities.

But it IS the first major attempt to halt the fighting after five years of war...even though the outlook for peace seems bleak.