Mahfud MD urges safety guarantees for TNI troops in Lebanon

If they are not safe, there must be an explanation,Surabaya (ANTARA) - Constitutional Law expert Mahfud MD has urged the government to guarantee the safety of Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) serving on peacekeeping missions in Lebanon following recent fatalities.

“TNI soldiers are in the mission on a state duty. Therefore, their safety must be guaranteed. If they are not safe, there must be an explanation,” he said at Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Indonesia Surabaya (STESIA) on Monday.

Mahfud highlighted the lack of clarity regarding who has fully responsible for commanding and ensuring the security of peacekeeping forces in conflict zones.

According to the former Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs, conditions on the ground are complex, as warring parties often disregard international regulations.

“Even though peacekeeping forces operate under the United Nations, some parties do not fully comply with these rules,” he said.

He also pointed to indiscriminate attacks, including those targeting health facilities and medical personnel, which are now affecting Indonesian troops deployed on peacekeeping missions.

Mahfud urged the government to clarify its stance on Indonesia’s involvement in Lebanon and to ensure maximum protection for all personnel serving in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

Regarding the possible withdrawal of TNI troops from Lebanon, he said the decision rests entirely with the government and the military.

“This is the authority of the TNI and the government,” he said.

Four TNI soldiers serving in UNIFIL have reportedly been killed while carrying out their duties in Lebanon.

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Translator: Willi Irawan, Asri Mayang Sari