Indonesia Pushes for Evaluation of Global Peacekeeping Forces’ Security

Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono delivers his statement to the media at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Tangerang, Saturday (04/04). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)

The Indonesian Government has expressed deep condolences over the deaths of three Indonesian peacekeeping personnel carrying out their duties with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in Lebanon.

The three personnel were Major Inf. (posthumous) Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, Sergeant Major (posthumous) Muhammad Nur Ichwan, and Corporal Second Class (posthumous) Farizal Rhomadon.

“We all extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families. We hope and pray that the souls of these heroic warriors of the nation are accepted by the Almighty God, and that their families are granted health and patience in facing this tragedy,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono in his statement at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Tangerang, on Saturday (04/04).

In addition to the three fallen personnel, the Minister also revealed that three other personnel were injured. “Last night, I also received a report that three TNI soldiers were wounded. The cause, like the two previous incidents, is still under investigation by the UNIFIL,” he added.

In response to the incident, the Indonesian Government, through its Permanent Representative in New York, has taken diplomatic steps by requesting the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to hold a meeting. According to the Minister, the request has been approved by France, the penholder on the Lebanon issue at the UN Security Council.

“The extraordinary Security Council meeting will focus on two main points: first, we strongly condemn the attack on the peacekeepers and UNIFIL. Second, we demand a thorough investigation because this is a peacekeeping mission,” he explained.

In his statement, Sugiono emphasized that attacks on peacekeeping forces are unjustifiable. He also stressed the importance of security guarantees for peacekeeping personnel.

“They are peacekeepers, not peacemakers. They are not equipped with the capability for peacemakers. Their equipment and training are for maintaining peace and preserving peaceful situation, and this is also the mandate of UN peacekeeping forces,” said the Minister.

Moreover, Indonesia is urging the UN to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the safety aspects of peacekeeping forces in various operational areas, particularly in the UNIFIL mission in Lebanon.

“We once again strive to ensure that our peacekeeping forces are healthy and safe in carrying out the tasks entrusted to them,” he stressed.

This step serves as a strong signal that Indonesia is not only grieving but also leading efforts for change. The sacrifices of the soldiers must not be in vain.

Amid the loss, one message resonates strongly from the Government. The state is present, honors, and will continue to protect every soldier wherever they serve, for a more peaceful world. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (EST/TM)