New York  - The United Nations Security Council on Friday extended a three-decade old observer force in the disputed Golan Heights claimed by both Israel and Syria.

The 15-nation council, in a unanimous decision, prolonged for another six months the 1,000-strong UN force that has been observing a ceasefire between the two countries since 1974.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, in a report to the council, said the region had remained "generally quiet" over the last six months, but warned that it would remain "tense" until the Middle East situation was resolved.

Israel and Syria last month announced they had revived indirect peace talks that had stalled eight years ago, and both countries' leaders have said they were prepared for direct negotiations. (dpa)