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". Islamist rebel forces have become increasing prominent in the conflict in Syria, and they are believed to command tens of thousands of fighters. The signatories include members of the Free Syrian Army as well as more radical Islamists - among them the powerful al-Nusra Front, which has links to al-Qaeda. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-24239779
