UK Hinders DNA Testing of Argentina's Fallen Falklands War Soldiers

According to national media, Argentina blames the United Kingdom for delaying the identification process of 123 Argentinian soldiers, who died during the Falklands War and were buried as the Unknown Warriors on the islands.

MOSCOW (Sputnik) – Argentina blames the United Kingdom for delaying the identification process of 123 Argentinian soldiers, who died during the Falklands War and were buried as the Unknown Warriors on the islands, according to national media.

The military conflict between the United Kingdom and Argentina in 1982 over disputed territories in the South Atlantic ended with Argentina's capitulation. Over 900 people died in the fighting.

London has not replied to a request sent by Buenos Aires five months ago to allow Red Cross and Argentinian experts carry out DNA testing on soldiers buried under the caption "Argentine soldier known only to God," La Nacion newspaper reported on Monday, citing government sources. The Argentinian newspaper added that the process will have to be delayed for at least five more months due to the forthcoming winter in the Southern Hemisphere.

The Falkland Islands, home to just under 3,000 residents, is a British Overseas Territory. It is located 300 miles off the coast of Argentina, which still claims sovereignty over the archipelago.

Tensions over the disputed territory have intensified after British oil companies said they found new oil and gas deposits near the islands earlier this year.