A temporary local truce around the Syrian capital city of Damascus has expired, having twice been extended.

The Syrian army began what's called a "regime of silence" on Saturday at midnight in the Eastern Ghouta area, east of Damascus, and in the northwestern province of Latakia. The army said this pacification process would continue for 24 hours around Damascus, and for 72 hours in Latakia.

The lull in fighting in the capital was first extended for 24 hours, and then again for 48 hours. However, Syria's largest city Aleppo was excluded in the deal. The United States and Russia are now pushing for a new ceasefire that would include the northern city.