Calls for Cancellation of TNI Troop Deployment to Gaza Intensify
Deep sorrow has enveloped Indonesia following the deaths of three of the TNI’s finest soldiers, who were part of the Task Force from the TNI Mechanised Infantry Battalion XXIII-S/Inti under the UNIFIL mission, killed in an Israeli military artillery attack in southern Lebanon. This incident has sparked serious concerns regarding the safety of peacekeeping troops, while also fuelling demands for the government to reconsider plans to send forces to Gaza.
The attack occurred in the Lebanon-Israel demarcation line area, known as the Blue Line, which should be a weapons-free zone in accordance with the mandate of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 from 2006. Under those provisions, the area is inviolable and must not be breached by any parties involved in the conflict.
Secretary-General of the Gelora Indonesia Party, Mahfuz Sidik, assessed the Israeli military’s attack as a serious violation of international law. He stated that the action reveals a recurring pattern that increases risks for peacekeeping forces in the field.
According to Mahfuz, although UNIFIL forces have a mandate for self-defence, the use of heavy weaponry such as missiles by the Israeli side severely limits that capability. “This situation leaves peacekeeping personnel under constant threat,” said the politician who once served as Chairman of Commission I of the DPR.
He also highlighted the track record of violations committed by the Israeli military in various conflict zones. During the ceasefire period in Gaza since October 2023, attacks have still frequently occurred, including against residential and displacement areas. Available data shows hundreds of civilians have become victims during that period.
Mahfuz views the incident in southern Lebanon that killed TNI soldiers not as an isolated event, but as part of a recurring pattern of actions. “This demonstrates a tendency for ongoing violations,” he emphasised.
Reflecting on the situation, Mahfuz urged the Indonesian government to postpone and review plans to send TNI soldiers to the international stabilisation force (International Stabilization Force/ISF) under the Board of Peace, which is planned to operate in Gaza.
He assessed that there are no adequate security guarantees for personnel to be deployed in that area, especially amid a highly fluctuating conflict situation. Furthermore, the push for the stabilisation force to carry out disarmament tasks against Hamas groups is seen as increasing risks in the field.
“Such assignments could place TNI forces in extremely dangerous situations,” he said.
Mahfuz also alluded to Israel’s stance, which he views as showing no remorse for the various violations that have occurred. On the other hand, he believes that the United States’ indulgence towards those actions has worsened the security situation.
Given these conditions, the discourse on sending troops to Gaza is seen as needing careful consideration, prioritising personnel safety and certainty of international legal protection in conflict zones.