Security Council Press Statement on United Nations Disengagement Observer Force

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Mark Lyall Grant ( United Kingdom):

The members of the Security Council strongly condemned intense fighting in the Area of Separation, including the attack, which led to injuries suffered by two United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) peacekeepers on 6 June.  The members of the Security Council urged full respect of the disengagement agreement of 31 May 1974.

The members of the Security Council called upon all parties to fully cooperate with UNDOF in good faith to enable it to operate freely and to ensure full security of its personnel.  The members of the Security Council expressed their deep concern at the risk that all military activities in the area of separation conducted by any actor pose to the long-held ceasefire and the local population.  The members of the Security Council also noted with grave concern that there have been a number of incidents threatening the safety and security of United Nations personnel in recent months and underscored they would continue to monitor the situation closely.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed their unconditional support for UNDOF and expressed their deepest gratitude to UNDOF personnel and to troop-contributing countries, including the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization’s (UNTSO) Observer Group Golan.  The members of the Security Council recalled their request in resolution 2084 (2012) for the Secretary-General to ensure the Force has the capacity necessary to fulfil the mandate.

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For information media • not an official record