Three Indonesian Soldiers Killed by Israel, BSMI: The UN Should Protect Peacekeeping Forces
REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA – The Indonesian Red Crescent (BSMI) has conveyed deep condolences over the deaths of three Indonesian National Army (TNI) soldiers on duty with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in southern Lebanon.
The General Chairman of the National Board of BSMI, M. Djazuli Ambari, stated that this incident is a deeply regrettable humanitarian tragedy. According to him, the loss of these three soldiers serves as an important reminder of the need to protect all personnel carrying out the world’s peacekeeping mandate.
“We convey our deepest condolences over the passing of the nation’s finest soldiers in carrying out the noble task of maintaining world peace. This is not only a loss for Indonesia but also for the international community that upholds humanitarian values,” Djazuli said in his statement on Wednesday (1/4).
BSMI emphasises that all humanitarian and peacekeeping missions must receive full protection in accordance with international humanitarian law. Djazuli stressed that attacks on peacekeeping forces, medical personnel, or volunteers constitute serious violations that cannot be justified under any circumstances.
“We strongly condemn any form of attack on peacekeeping personnel. Especially if the attack involves parties to the conflict, including those allegedly carried out by Israel. This is a serious violation of international law and must be investigated transparently and accountably,” he asserted.
Furthermore, BSMI urges the United Nations (UN) and all relevant parties to ensure maximum protection for all peacekeeping forces, including TNI soldiers serving in conflict areas.
According to Djazuli, countries involved in conflicts have an obligation to guarantee the security of peacekeeping operation areas and not to take actions that endanger their safety.
“The enforcement of international humanitarian law must be carried out without exception. All parties are obliged to comply with the principles of protection for non-combatants, humanitarian personnel, and peacekeeping forces,” he said.
As a humanitarian organisation, BSMI reaffirms its commitment to continue playing an active role in humanitarian efforts, both domestically and internationally, and to stand with the international community in advocating for humanitarian values, neutrality, and peace.
BSMI also prays that the fallen soldiers receive the best place beside Allah SWT and that their bereaved families are granted strength and resilience.