JK Mourns Fallen TNI Soldiers in Lebanon: This is a Major Loss
Chairman of the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) and 10th Vice President of Indonesia Jusuf Kalla has conveyed deep condolences over the death of TNI soldiers while carrying out a peacekeeping mission in Lebanon. JK emphasised that the fallen soldiers are not only fighters for the nation but also symbols of Indonesia’s dedication to the world.
“I convey my deepest condolences. They are peace heroes who have sacrificed their lives and bodies for humanity and world stability,” JK told reporters on Tuesday (31/3/2026).
He assessed that the presence of TNI in international peacekeeping missions serves as concrete evidence of Indonesia’s commitment to maintaining world order. Indonesia’s presence aligns with the constitutional mandate.
“Their dedication is not only for Indonesia but for all humanity. This is a major loss, yet also a pride for the nation,” he continued.
Jusuf Kalla also called on the public to pray for the fallen soldiers and provide moral support to the families left behind.
Three TNI Soldiers Fallen
Previously, citing Reuters, a total of three TNI soldiers died during peacekeeping duties in Lebanon. Two TNI soldiers were killed following an explosion from an unknown source near Bani Hayyan. Two other soldiers were injured in that explosion.
Meanwhile, another TNI soldier died on Sunday (29/3) night. The victim, identified as Private First Class Farizal Rhomadhon, was killed after a projectile exploded near one of the group’s positions near Adchit al-Qusayr village in southern Lebanon. Another peacekeeper was seriously injured at that time.
The death on Sunday was the first among UN peacekeeping forces in the new war between Israel and Hezbollah that erupted on 2 March.
“These are two separate incidents and we are investigating them as two separate incidents,” said UNIFIL spokesperson Kandice Ardiel.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated that attacks on peacekeepers constitute a grave violation of international humanitarian law and could be considered war crimes.
“We strongly condemn this unacceptable incident—peacekeepers must not be targeted,” said UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix.