UNFICYP's response to farming incident in Deryneia

Farming near the ceasefire lines inside the UN buffer zone is strictly prohibited and risks provoking tensions. No farmer is ever granted permission to work near the ceasefire lines, such actions jeopardise the safety and security of both civilians and UN peacekeepers.Earlier today a farmer damaged a UN vehicle preventing him from crossing the northern ceasefire line inside the UN buffer zone near Deryneia. Regrettably, a UN peacekeeper sustained minor injuries during the incident.Threats to the safety of UN peacekeepers and damage to UN property are unacceptable and may constitute a serious crime under international law.We call on all farmers to comply with all UN rules and regulations for farming activities inside the buffer zone.Our top priority remains to prevent tensions and maintain the status quo across the UN buffer zone.