Secretary-General Welcomes Release of United Nations Disengagement Observer

Force Peacekeepers, Calls on Parties to Respect Mission Mandate

 

The following statement was issued by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today:

The Secretary-General welcomes the release of the 45 United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) peacekeepers who had been forcibly taken on 28 August by armed elements from United Nations Position 27 and detained.  He appreciates the efforts of all concerned to secure their 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.  The Secretary-General demands that all parties respect UNDOF’s mandate, freedom of movement and the safety and security of its personnel.

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For information media • not an official record