Indonesia has called on all parties involved in Middle East conflicts to respect international humanitarian law following the killing of its peacekeeping personnel in Lebanon.
The statement came after three Indonesian peacekeepers serving under the United Nations mission in Lebanon were killed amid ongoing hostilities in the region. According to Indonesia’s defence ministry spokesman Rico Ricardo Sirait, the safety of peacekeeping troops must remain the highest priority, and all sides must ensure the protection of personnel deployed under international mandates.
Indonesia emphasized that attacks affecting peacekeepers represent a serious concern under international law and urged restraint to prevent further escalation. The government reiterated its commitment to supporting peacekeeping operations while calling for adherence to established legal frameworks governing armed conflict.
The peacekeepers were part of the UN peacekeeping contingent deployed in southern Lebanon, an area that has witnessed increased military activity in recent days due to intensified cross-border exchanges between Israeli forces and Hezbollah. The situation has placed UN positions in proximity to active combat zones, raising risks to personnel operating under the United Nations flag.
The deaths occurred amid heightened clashes in southern Lebanon, where Israeli military operations and Hezbollah’s retaliatory attacks have expanded the scope of the conflict. UN peacekeeping positions, including those staffed by Indonesian personnel, have reportedly been affected by indirect fire and nearby strikes during these exchanges. The incident highlights the growing dangers faced by peacekeepers as the conflict environment becomes increasingly volatile and operations take place closer to UN-monitored zones.