Captured UN peacekeepers released
45 Fijian peacekeepers, detained two weeks ago by armed opposition elements in Syria "are in good condition"
12 September 2014, 9:10am
Matthew Agius
Matthew Agius
1 min read
UN peacekeepers observe Syria's Quneitra province at an observation point on Mount Bental in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights, Syria
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon welcomed the release of 45 United Nations peacekeepers who had been captured in the Golan Heights last August by opposition militants who had seized control of the Quneitra crossing from President Bashar Assad's troops.
The world body had announced yesterday that the 45 Fijian peacekeepers were released “in good condition and will undergo medical assessment”.
The peacekeepers, serving as part of the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF), were detained two weeks ago by armed elements of the opposition in the vicinity of Al Qunaytirah amid increased fighting in the area between Syrian Government forces and armed groups.
Mr. Ban expressed his appreciation to all concerned for their efforts to secure the peacekeepers’ safe release.
“The Secretary-General emphasizes to all parties the impartiality of United Nations peacekeepers. UNDOF is on the ground to monitor the Disengagement of Forces Agreement between Israel and Syria,” said Mr. Ban, demanding that all parties respect UNDOF’s mandate, freedom of movement and the safety and security of its personnel.
Matthew Agius is Senior Reporter on Law and Court Affairs at MaltaToday.
He is also a Leg...
