UN reveals initial findings on incident involving three TNI members in UNIFIL
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The United Nations (UN) has revealed several preliminary findings from the investigation into the incidents on 29 and 30 March that claimed the lives of three TNI members attached to UNIFIL, according to UN Spokesperson Stephanie Dujarric.
The spokesperson stated that regarding the 29 March incident, based on available evidence, including analysis of the impact site and particularly the projectile fragments found at UN position 7-1, the projectile was a 120mm main tank round fired by an Israeli Defense Forces Merkava tank from the east towards Ett Taibe.
“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 Defense Forces on 6 March and 22 March,” Dujarric said in a press release from the UN Information Centre in Indonesia on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, regarding the 30 March incident, based on available evidence, including analysis of the explosion site, the affected vehicle, and a second improvised explosive device (IED) found nearby on the same day, the explosion was caused by an IED activated by the victim (tripwire).
“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,” she said.
According to her, the incidents that led to the deaths of Major Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, Sergeant First Class Muhammad Nur Ichwan, and Corporal Farizal Rhomadon have been reported to the governments of Indonesia, Lebanon, and Israel.
The spokesperson reiterated that these are preliminary findings based on initial physical evidence. Meanwhile, the full UN investigation process, including necessary procedures and engagement with relevant parties to comprehensively understand the context and circumstances amid ongoing hostilities, is still underway.
“An Investigation Board will be established for both cases, in accordance with UN procedures,” she said.
The spokesperson extended deepest condolences to the families of the fallen peacekeepers and to the Government of Indonesia.
She also hoped that all parties would join in praying for the full recovery of all those injured in this incident and others.
“These incidents are unacceptable. We have urged the relevant parties to investigate these cases and process them legally through national authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure criminal accountability for crimes against peacekeepers,” she said.
She added that attacks on UN peacekeepers may constitute 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,” she said.