JAKARTA (Bernama) – Two Indonesian personnel from the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) were injured during an attack by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) in southern Lebanon.
Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi confirmed that the soldiers sustained minor injuries from IDF tank fire while monitoring from a watchtower at the Indonesian contingent’s base in Naqoura on Thursday morning.
This area, known as the ‘blue line’ is monitored by UN peacekeepers under United Nations Security Council (UNSC) mandate aimed at maintaining stability in Lebanon.
“The two personnel received immediate treatment at the nearest hospital and are currently in good condition,” Retno stated in a statement.
Indonesia condemned the attack and called for a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible, while emphasising the importance of respecting the inviolability of UN territory under all circumstances.
“Indonesia emphasises that any attack on peacekeepers is a serious violation of international humanitarian law and United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which serves as the basis for UNIFIL’s mandate,” she said.
While attending ASEAN Summit meetings in Laos, Retno has been in direct communication with the commander of the Garuda Force Headquarters Support Unit regarding the incident.
UNIFIL has also urged the IDF to fulfil its obligations to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and facilities, she added.
