UN Probe On Indonesian Peacekeeper Deaths Released

THE United Nations (UN) peacekeeping mission in south Lebanon (UN Interim Force in Lebanon)(UNIFIL) released preliminary findings in the deaths of three Indonesian peacekeepers on March 29 and 30, Major Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, First Sergeant Muhammad Nur Ichwan, and Corporal Farizal Rhomadon.

A UN statement read, “Regarding the incident on March 29, based on the available evidence, including analysis of the impact site and notably the fragments of the projectile discovered in United Nations position 7-1, the projectile was a 120mm tank main armament round, fired by an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Merkava tank from the east, in the direction of Ett Taibe. To mitigate the risk to United Nations personnel, UNIFIL had provided the IDF with the coordinates of all its positions and facilities on March 6 and March 22.”

“With reference to the incident on March 30, based on the available evidence, including analysis of the site of the explosion, the impacted vehicle, and a second improvised explosive device (IED) discovered nearby the same day, the explosion was caused by a victim-activated (tripwire) IED. The investigation has assessed that, given the location of the incident, the nature of the explosion, and the current context, the IED was most likely placed by Hizbullah”, the statement continues.

“These are preliminary findings, based on initial physical evidence. The full investigation processes of the UN continue, including required procedures and engagement with the parties concerned to understand the full context and circumstances amidst ongoing hostilities, and Boards of Inquiry will be convened in both cases, in accordance with established UN procedures. Attacks on UN peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law. All actors must adhere to their obligations to ensure the safety and security of the peacekeepers at all times. The inviolability of UN installations must be respected.”

In the meantime, the UN has requested with the relevant parties that the cases be investigated and prosecuted by national authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure criminal accountability for crimes against peacekeepers.

Indonesia’s Battalion (INDOBATT) has been the largest peacekeeper contingent in Lebanon for years as UNIFIL’s largest contributor with around 755 personnel.