Israel Attacks Lebanon, Indonesian UN Peacekeeper Killed
An Indonesian peacekeeper has been killed after a projectile exploded near a United Nations (UN) position in southern Lebanon, amid rising regional conflict that also endangers international missions. The incident has drawn sharp condemnation from UN leadership and calls for immediate de-escalation.
The Indonesian “blue helmet” serving with the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) was reported to be at a post near Adchit Al Qusayr when the projectile exploded. Another peacekeeper suffered serious injuries from the blast and is still receiving hospital treatment.
UNIFIL stated that it does not yet know the origin of the projectile and has launched an investigation to determine the circumstances of the incident.
“No one should lose their life while serving the cause of peace,” the mission said, quoted from the official UN website on Monday (30/3/2026).
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly condemned the incident, which occurred in the context of escalating conflict in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said the event is part of a series of incidents endangering the safety of peacekeeping forces.
“This is one of several incidents endangering the safety and security of peacekeepers, including in the last 48 hours,” Dujarric said.
“Once again, the Secretary-General calls on all parties to uphold their obligations under international law and to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and property at all times,” he added.
UN leadership also reminded that attacks on peacekeepers constitute a serious violation of international humanitarian law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and “may be considered war crimes”. The resolution forms the basis for UNIFIL to help end hostilities between Israeli forces and the Hezbollah group nearly two decades ago.
“There must be accountability,” the statement said.
The Secretary-General expressed deep condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the fallen peacekeeper, as well as to Indonesia. He also prayed for a full and speedy recovery for the injured officer.
Guterres also expressed appreciation to the men and women serving in UNIFIL, while emphasising the importance of their safety, security, and freedom of movement. The UN also urged all parties to immediately de-escalate and comply with obligations under Security Council resolutions.
Indonesian Government Response
The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirmed the death of the peacekeeper and three others injured while serving in UNIFIL.
“Indirect artillery fire hit the Indonesian contingent’s position near Adchit Al Qusayr on 29 March 2026. The incident occurred amid reports of exchanges of fire between Israeli military and armed groups in southern Lebanon,” the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs wrote on its X account.
Indonesia strongly condemned the incident and called for a thorough and transparent investigation.
“We extend our highest respects to the fallen personnel for their dedication and service to international peace and security. Our prayers and sympathies are with the bereaved family, and we pray for the full recovery of the injured personnel. Indonesia is working with UNIFIL to ensure the prompt repatriation of the remains and the best medical care for the injured,” it continued.
According to the Ministry, the safety and security of UN peacekeepers must always be fully respected in accordance with international law. Any actions endangering peacekeepers are unacceptable and disrupt joint efforts to maintain peace and stability.
“Indonesia once again strongly condemns Israel’s attacks in southern Lebanon and calls on all parties to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, to stop attacks endangering civilians and civilian infrastructure, and to return to dialogue and diplomacy to prevent further escalation and achieve peace,” the Ministry wrote.
Healthcare Workers Also Become Victims
Amid the same escalation, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus reported the death of another healthcare worker in southern Lebanon.
“Israel’s expanding military operations in southern Lebanon have resulted in the death of another health worker today,” Tedros said in a statement published on the X platform.
The paramedic was killed in an attack on an ambulance in the city of Bint Jbeil, while a medical warehouse in the same location was also destroyed in the attack.
“Prior to today’s attack, WHO has verified that 51 Lebanese health workers have been killed since 2 March, including nine paramedics just yesterday,” Tedros said.
“Attacks on health facilities must stop immediately. This must not become the new normal.”