Indonesia Condemns Attacks on UNIFIL Peacekeeping Forces in Lebanon

The Permanent Mission of the Republic of Indonesia to the United Nations, Umar Hadi, has firmly stated Indonesia’s strong stance against the increasing attacks on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeeping forces in southern Lebanon. Umar conveyed that Indonesia calls on all parties to ensure the safety, security, and respect for the peacekeepers still on duty. He also urged that the best medical treatment be provided to injured personnel to ensure their swift and complete recovery. “Indonesia calls on all parties to guarantee the safety and honour of the peacekeepers, and to ensure that those injured receive the best medical treatment,” Umar said on Tuesday (31/3). He highlighted that the current escalation of conflict did not arise suddenly, but is a consequence of military operations conducted by Israel in Lebanese territory. Indonesia, he continued, strongly condemns the attacks as they violate Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. “This escalation did not occur in a vacuum. Israel’s attacks in southern Lebanon constitute a serious violation of Lebanon’s sovereignty,” he asserted. According to Umar, the rising conflict in the region has been accompanied by a surge in attacks on UNIFIL personnel in recent weeks. He assessed that these attacks are not mere ordinary incidents, but serious violations that could undermine UNIFIL’s ability to carry out its mandate in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Furthermore, he warned that attacks on peacekeeping forces could be categorised as threats to international security and even potential war crimes under international law. Therefore, Indonesia demands an immediate, transparent, and accountable investigation into the incidents. Umar emphasised that the investigation must be independent and not merely a justification for certain parties. “We demand a credible and independent investigation, and call on the Security Council to ensure follow-up on the investigation’s results,” he said. Indonesia also calls on all involved parties, including Israel, to comply with international law, cease aggressive actions, and exercise restraint from steps that could worsen the situation on the ground. In addition, Umar stressed the importance of swift action from the UN Security Council and the Secretary-General to guarantee full protection for UNIFIL personnel and assets, including through reviewing security protocols and activating contingency and evacuation plans. He affirmed that the safety of peacekeepers must be the top priority for the international community. Indonesia, he said, also extends respects to the personnel who have fallen while carrying out their duties to maintain world peace. “There must be no more attacks on peacekeepers. The world must act decisively to protect those who safeguard international security,” he concluded.