A compact design for a push-pull latching system for a rectangular plug includes at least one locking and releasing element (11) which is held against a broad side of a plug housing in such a way that the locking and releasing element can be moved parallel to the broad side of the plug housing (1). The locking and releasing element (11) can be formed integrally with the plug housing (1) from an elastic plastic and can have a plurality of locking arms (111) having locking hooks (113). The movement necessary for releasing is then inversely proportional to the number of locking arms (111); the elasticity is also determined by the shape of the locking arms, in particular the width of the locking arms.