TNI on Alert Level 1, Defence Attaché Ordered to Plan Evacuation of Indonesian Citizens in Middle East
JAKARTA — TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto has issued a level 1 alert telegram in response to the global conflict occurring, particularly in the Middle East.
One of the seven orders issued by Agus in the telegram is for the TNI Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS) and Defence Attachés of the Republic of Indonesia to map, chart, and plan the evacuation of Indonesian citizens in affected countries.
The Head of the TNI Information Centre (Kapuspen), Brigadier General Aulia Dwi Nasrullah, confirmed the existence of the telegram when contacted by Kompas.com on Saturday evening (7 March 2026).
“If necessary and in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemenlu), Indonesian Embassies (KBRI), and relevant authorities in accordance with the escalation situation in the Middle East region,” stated the third point of the directive.
Aulia emphasised that this heightened readiness is part of TNI’s core duty in safeguarding national security. According to him, the TNI must always be operationally prepared to anticipate developments in the strategic environment at international, regional, and national levels.
“TNI carries out its duties professionally and responsively, realised by consistently maintaining capability and strength to remain operationally ready, and prepared to anticipate developments in the international, regional, and national strategic environment,” said Aulia.
In the circulated document, the TNI Commander issued seven major instructions to units within the TNI.
Firstly, the TNI Main Operational Command (Pangkotamaops) was ordered to put personnel and major weapons systems on standby. Additionally, they were instructed to conduct patrols at strategic vital installations and economic centres.
These patrols encompass airports, sea and river ports, railway stations, bus terminals, and critical facilities such as the state electricity company’s offices.
Thirdly, the TNI Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS) was ordered to instruct defence attachés of the Republic of Indonesia in countries affected by the conflict to map and chart the situation of Indonesian citizens. Additionally, they were asked to prepare evacuation plans if necessary. This measure is carried out in coordination with the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Indonesian diplomatic representatives in the relevant countries.