TNI to Deploy Troops to Lebanon Again, Soldiers' Safety Urged as Priority

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Deputy Chairman of DPR RI Commission I, Dave Laksono, has urged the government to prioritise the safety of TNI soldiers who will be deployed for peacekeeping duties in Lebanon in May 2026.

“We emphasise that the safety and welfare of the soldiers on duty must be the top priority,” Dave said when contacted by Kompas.com on Wednesday (13/5/2026).

Dave stated that logistical support, equipment, and coordination with United Nations (UN) forces must be ensured to operate optimally, given the high risks in the assignment area.

“Ongoing evaluations of the dynamics on the ground are necessary so that every policy remains relevant and soldiers can carry out their duties safely,” Dave explained.

Nevertheless, Dave believes the government’s decision to send TNI soldiers to Lebanon again is a manifestation of Indonesia’s commitment to maintaining world peace.

“Commission I of DPR RI views the government’s decision to continue deploying TNI soldiers to Lebanon as a concrete embodiment of Indonesia’s commitment to maintaining world peace,” Dave said.

It was previously reported that the government will send 744 Indonesian National Army (TNI) personnel, grouped in the Garuda Contingent Task Force (Satgas Konga), for the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mission in May 2026.

Foreign Minister Sugiono advised the soldiers to prepare themselves and carry out their duties well, with full enthusiasm and sincerity, as they represent Indonesia on the world stage.

Sugiono stated that the coordination meeting is crucial to strengthen coordination amid geopolitical dynamics and increasing risks in the assignment area.

According to him, the meeting should not be seen as mere routine.

“The Foreign Ministry will continue to carry out coordination and cooperation to enhance the peacekeeping mission as part of the constitutional mandate and the country’s reputation,” Sugiono said.