Fijian troops stationed in the Golan Heights under the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) and the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation (UNTSO) are reportedly safe amid the ongoing turmoil in Syria. This reassurance comes in the wake of significant developments, including the apparent collapse of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s decades-long regime, as rebel forces captured the capital, Damascus, in a rapid offensive that unfolded in less than two weeks.
Reports suggest that President Assad may have fled to Russia seeking asylum, a move that follows his unexpected absence from the public eye during the escalation of violence led by Islamist militant groups.
Fiji’s Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, has received updates on the situation from military leaders in the Golan Heights. He confirmed that a Fijian officer who had been stationed in Damascus was successfully evacuated and has returned to Camp Faour, underscoring the effectiveness of Fiji’s peacekeeping contingency plans.
Tikoduadua reassured that all Fijian personnel with UNDOF and UNTSO, including those at the headquarters in Camp Faour, are secure and accounted for. While the situation is described as calm but tense, he emphasized that there is no immediate threat to the Fijian peacekeepers. The country remains in close collaboration with the United Nations and other relevant stakeholders to monitor evolving circumstances in the region. There are also robust plans in place to protect personnel should the security environment change.
Over the weekend, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) conducted operations within the demilitarized zone in the Golan Heights to counteract activity from rebel groups. Tikoduadua assured that United Nations positions were not targeted and that the personnel, including those at Observation Post 71, remained unharmed. Efforts are currently underway to recover equipment and supplies that were temporarily disrupted due to a rebel infiltration.
The Minister noted that the IDF’s increased security measures within the buffer zone are significantly enhancing the safety of UNDOF and UNTSO staff. Additionally, local communities situated near UN positions have expressed their support for the peacekeepers and are actively cooperating to uphold stability in the area.
Tikoduadua also praised the Fijian troops for their remarkable commitment in these challenging circumstances, reiterating Fiji’s ongoing dedication to contributing to international peace and security.
In summary, while the situation in Syria remains volatile, the safety and preparedness of Fijian peacekeepers reflect a commitment to stability and peacekeeping efforts in a region facing upheaval. This serves as a hopeful reminder of the role that dedicated international cooperation plays in navigating challenges and protecting those who work in service of peace.
Leave a comment