May 12, 2012 – The Force Commander and Head of Mission of the United Nations

Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF), MGen I.S. Singha, welcomes the release of the four UNDOF peacekeepers who had been held since 7 May in the vicinity of Al Jamlah in the area of limitation.

Heavy fighting between the Syrian Arab Armed Forces and armed opposition groups, including heavy bombardment in the areas of Saida, Ain Dhakar, Abu Harten, Zerzun, Al Jamlah and Hanud had taken place in the three days preceding the 7 May incident, whereby a four-member UNDOF patrol was intercepted and held by an armed group identifying itself as the Al Yarmouk Martyrs Brigade. The peacekeepers were not injured and have been safely returned/released.

The Force Commander appeals to all sides to exercise maximum restraint and to respect the integrity of the Agreement on Disengagement of Forces between Syria and Israel, as well as the mandate and operations of UNDOF in support of that Agreement. The Force Commander reiterates the call of the Secretary-General to all parties to respect UNDOF's freedom of movement and safety and security.