SUMMARY
This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.
UNITED NATIONS – Qatar played a key role negotiating the release of 4 Filipino peacekeepers seized by Syrian rebels in the UN patrolled Golan Heights ceasefire zone, UN officials and diplomats said Sunday.
READ: Filipino peacekeepers released
UN leader Ban Ki-moon praised Qatar’s role as he welcomed the release of the 4 who had been held for 5 days.
Ban “appreciates the assistance of Qatar and of others involved in securing their safe release,” said UN spokesman Martin Nesirky.
It is the second time in two months that Filipino peacekeepers from the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan have been seized by the Syrian rebel group. Twenty-one troops were held for 4 days in March.
“This time the rebels felt under pressure and took more convincing to free the soldiers,” said a UN diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity. “Qatar’s role was important.”
The UN did not immediately give any details of the negotiations or release.
“The secretary general again emphasizes to all parties the impartiality of United Nations peacekeepers,” said Nesirky.
Ban “calls on all parties to respect UNDOF’s freedom of movement and the safety and security of its personnel,” the spokesman added.
UNDOF has been in the Golan Heights since 1974 monitoring a ceasefire between Syria and Israel and Syria. – Rappler.com
Add a comment
How does this make you feel?
There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation.