Ok, this is probably a rather naive comment to make but what were/ are the rebels demands? Trying to look at the options for peace here. What would stop them fighting the government? If I am correct, Assad was elected democratically, so why can't they pursue the opposition political party route? I'm sure it's far more complex than this but would this not be a start and an end to the killing at least? Elections could be monitored to make sure there is no fixing etc. In return, Assad would have to call an election this year or something similar? What do you think the bargain should be to keep both sides happy?