Projectile Found, UN Report: Israeli Attack Kills Three TNI Members in UNIFIL
The United Nations (UN) has released initial investigation results regarding incidents on 29 and 30 March that killed three TNI soldiers while serving in the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission. This was announced by UN Spokesperson Stephanie Dujarric.
For the 29 March incident, the UN revealed that preliminary analysis was conducted based on evidence including the impact site and projectile fragments found at UN position 7-1. The results indicate that the projectile used was a 120mm main tank round.
The round is said to have originated from an Israeli Defence Forces Merkava tank fired from the east towards the Ett Taibe area.
“It should be noted that, to reduce risks to UN personnel, UNIFIL has again provided coordinates of all its positions and facilities to the Israeli Defence Forces on 6 March and 22 March,” Dujarric stated in a press release from the UN Information Centre in Indonesia on Wednesday (8/4).
Meanwhile, for the 30 March incident, the preliminary investigation shows that the explosion was triggered by an improvised explosive device (IED). This finding is based on analysis of the blast site, the condition of the affected vehicle, and the discovery of a second IED nearby on the same day.
The explosion is believed to have occurred due to a tripwire mechanism triggered by the victims.
“The investigation assesses that, given the location of the incident, the characteristics of the explosion, and the current context, the IED was most likely planted by Hezbollah,” he said.
In these events, three TNI soldiers fell: Major Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, Sergeant First Class Muhammad Nur Ichwan, and Corporal Farizal Rhomadon.
The UN stated that these preliminary findings have been conveyed to the governments of Indonesia, Lebanon, and Israel.
Nevertheless, Dujarric emphasised that the report is still preliminary and based on interim physical evidence. The UN’s comprehensive investigation is ongoing, including further procedures and communications with relevant parties to gain a more thorough understanding of the situation amid the continuing conflict.
“An Investigation Board will be formed for both cases, in accordance with UN procedures,” he said.
The UN also expressed deep condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and to the Indonesian government.
Additionally, hopes were expressed that all injured victims from this incident and others may recover fully soon.
“These incidents are unacceptable. We have urged the relevant parties to investigate and prosecute these cases through national authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure criminal accountability for crimes against peacekeepers,” he said.
Dujarric added that attacks on UN peacekeeping personnel could be categorised as war crimes under international law.
“All parties must comply with their obligations to ensure the safety and security of peacekeepers at all times. The inviolability of United Nations facilities must be respected,” he said.
The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has strongly condemned the Israeli attack in southern Lebanon, which is seen as increasing risks to the safety of UN peacekeeping forces.
Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) is urging the government to take firm diplomatic steps following the deaths of TNI soldiers in the peacekeeping mission in Lebanon. The incident involving the Israeli tank, as per the UN investigation.
Spokesperson for the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Yvonne Mewengkang, stated that Indonesia’s involvement in the mission is part of a strong global commitment to maintaining world peace and security.
Indonesia is urging the UN Security Council to hold an emergency meeting, while experts highlight challenges in investigating the UNIFIL attacks.