On Wednesday, 27 March, the Saeima decided to extend the participation of the Armed Forces of Latvia in the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) international operation until 1 May 2026.

UNTSO military observers are located in the Middle East to monitor ceasefires, supervise armistice agreements, prevent isolated incidents from escalating and assist other UN peacekeeping operations in the region. Latvia has been asked to continue its participation by the commander of the operation.

The security situation in Israel is tense, a high level of threats also exists in the neighbouring countries of Lebanon, Syria and Egypt. Therefore the UNTSO operation has demonstrated that it remains relevant and fulfils its duties also during military tensions, especially as the situation stabilises, the annotation of the draft decision states.

The aim of this international peacekeeping operation is to restore and maintain international peace and security, as well as to deter aggression or other violations of peace. The personnel involved in the operation are not authorised to engage in combat, except in cases where it is necessary for self-defence.

Saeima Press Service