Fijian soldiers assigned to the Golan Heights under the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) and the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation (UNTSO) are reported to be safe amid the tumultuous situation in Syria. This comes in the wake of significant changes in the Syrian government, as rebel forces have captured the capital, Damascus, effectively ending over 50 years of rule by President Bashar al-Assad, who is believed to have fled to Russia in search of asylum.
In light of these developments, Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs Pio Tikoduadua has confirmed that he received updates from the Commander of Joint Task Force Command and personnel stationed in the Golan Heights. A noteworthy point shared by Tikoduadua is that a Fijian officer, formerly stationed in Damascus, has successfully returned to Camp Faour, showcasing the effectiveness of their contingency measures for peacekeeping.
Despite tensions in the operational area, the minister assures that all Fijian troops with UNDOF and UNTSO remain secure and accounted for, with no immediate threats to their safety. They are closely collaborating with the United Nations and relevant stakeholders to maintain a vigilant watch over the evolving situation. Robust contingency plans are in place to protect personnel should the need arise.
Over the weekend, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) conducted operations in the Golan Heights’ demilitarised zone to counter the activities of rebel groups. Fortunately, United Nations positions were not targeted, and personnel, including those at Observation Post 71, remained unharmed. Recovery efforts for equipment affected by a recent rebel infiltration are currently underway.
The IDF’s additional security measures within the buffer zone have significantly bolstered the safety of UNDOF and UNTSO personnel. Furthermore, local communities near UN positions have shown their support for the Fijian peacekeepers, actively cooperating to uphold stability in the region. Tikoduadua praised the perseverance and commitment of the troops, highlighting Fiji’s steadfast dedication to international peace and security.
Overall, this situation highlights the resilience of peacekeeping forces in adverse conditions and reinforces the importance of international cooperation in maintaining stability. It also serves as a testament to Fiji’s longstanding role in promoting global peace.
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