Beirut, March 30: An Indonesian Peacekeeper was killed in an attack near the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) headquarters in the southern village of Adchit al-Qusayr. The incident, attributed to shelling from the Israeli side, has prompted Indonesia to demand a transparent investigation into the matter.
According to local media reports cited by the Xinhua news agency, initial reports indicated that UNIFIL personnel were also injured during the attack. Following the shelling, UNIFIL helicopters were seen heading towards the incident site.
This attack comes amid ongoing gunfire and escalating tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border. UNIFIL issued a statement on social media platform X, confirming the tragic death of one peacekeeper due to a projectile explosion near Adchit al-Qusayr, with another seriously injured. The statement emphasized that no one should lose their life while working for peace.
UNIFIL reiterated its appeal for all parties to adhere to their responsibilities under international law and ensure the safety of UN personnel and property, urging avoidance of actions that could endanger peacekeepers.
The statement further noted that deliberate attacks on peacekeepers constitute a serious violation of international human rights law and Security Council Resolution 1701, potentially amounting to war crimes. The ongoing conflict has resulted in numerous casualties on both sides of the Blue Line, highlighting that there is no military solution and that violence must cease.
Indonesia has confirmed the death of its peacekeeper in Adchit al-Qusayr and condemned the incident, calling for a fully transparent investigation. The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep condolences over the loss of the peacekeeper and injuries to three others, honoring the fallen for their dedication to international peace and security.
The ministry stated, “We are deeply saddened by this loss. Our prayers are with the grieving families, and we wish for the swift recovery of the injured. Indonesia is working with UNIFIL to ensure the return of the fallen and to provide the best medical care for the injured.”
Indonesia has once again condemned the Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon and urged all parties to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, halt attacks on civilians and infrastructure, and return to dialogue and diplomacy.