VOINews, Canada: The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Friday unanimously adopted a resolution to extend the mandate of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan Heights for an additional six months.
The resolution, co-sponsored by Russia and the United States, emphasized the necessity for Israel and Syria to fully comply with the 1974 Disengagement Agreement. This agreement aims to maintain the ceasefire and stability in the region, which remains a critical area of tension in the Middle East.
With the adoption of the resolution, the UNDOF mandate, originally set to expire on December 31, 2024, has been extended until June 30, 2025. The resolution underscores the prohibition of military activity within the demilitarized zone, except by UNDOF personnel.
Expressing deep concern over the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the resolution called on all parties to exercise restraint and cooperate fully with UNDOF to prevent further escalation. It also highlighted the importance of addressing risks faced by peacekeepers, including unexploded ordnance, and ensuring adequate resources and security measures for the mission.
The resolution further requested UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to provide a report on its implementation within 90 days.
UNDOF serves as the peacekeeping force responsible for monitoring compliance with the ceasefire between Syria and Israel, following the signing of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement.
This agreement required Israel to withdraw its forces from the entirety of Mount Hermon, which it had occupied during the 1973 Arab-Israeli War. Additionally, the agreement established the current boundaries between Israel and Syria, along with associated military arrangements, creating two demarcation lines—one for Israel (blue) and the other for Syria (red)—with a buffer zone separating the two sides.
As tensions continue to simmer in the region, the extension of UNDOF's mandate underscores the international community's commitment to preserving peace and stability in the Golan Heights./ANTARA/VOI
