UN Probe: Israeli Tank Fire and Hezbollah IED Linked to Deaths of Indonesian Peacekeepers

A preliminary United Nations investigation has revealed that three Indonesian peacekeepers killed in southern Lebanon last month were victims of two separate attacks: one involving Israeli military fire and another involving a Hezbollah improvised explosive device (IED). These incidents mark the first deaths of UN peacekeeping forces in the region during the current escalation of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

Breakdown of the Fatal Incidents

The deaths occurred over two consecutive days in late March, as Israeli forces expanded their ground operations in southern Lebanon to target Hezbollah. According to findings shared by the UN on April 7, the casualties resulted from distinct weapon systems and perpetrators.

The March 29 Attack: Israeli Tank Fire

On March 29, an Indonesian peacekeeper, 28-year-classic Farizal Rhomadhon, was killed when a projectile exploded near a United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) position close to the village of Adchit al-Qusayr. The UN probe determined that the projectile was a 120 mm tank main armament round fired from the east by an Israel Defence Forces (IDF) Merkava tank. Three other soldiers were wounded in the blast.

Crucially, UNIFIL reported that it had communicated the exact locations of all its positions and installations to the Israeli military twice in the days leading up to the strike.

The March 30 Attack: Hezbollah IED

The following day, March 30, two additional Indonesian soldiers—including Zulmi Aditya Iskandar—were killed when an explosion destroyed their vehicle near Bani Hayyan in south Lebanon. A third soldier was seriously wounded and a fourth sustained light injuries.

The United Nations investigation assessed that the nature of the explosion and the location of the incident indicate the IED was most likely placed by Hezbollah.

Demands for Accountability and Justice

The UN has taken a firm stance on the need for criminal accountability. Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for the UN secretary-general, stated that the UN has requested relevant parties ensure the cases are investigated and prosecuted by national authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The Indonesian government has reacted with strong condemnation. The Indonesian foreign ministry described the events as a “heinous attack” and demanded a thorough and transparent investigation. Indonesia has called on all parties to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, urging a cessation of attacks against civilian populations and infrastructure to prevent further escalation.

Context: UNIFIL in the Crossfire

UNIFIL has served as a peacekeeping force between Israel and Lebanon since 1978. However, the force currently finds itself caught in the crossfire of a larger Middle East war, as Israel continues its campaign to dismantle Hezbollah’s infrastructure in southern Lebanon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is UNIFIL?

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) is a peacekeeping force established in 1978 to confirm the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon and assist the government of Lebanon in restoring its effective authority in the south.

Why were the peacekeepers targeted?

The UN probe suggests the peacekeepers were caught in the conflict between the Israeli army and Iran-backed Hezbollah. While the Israeli strike occurred despite UNIFIL sharing its coordinates, the Hezbollah attack involved a roadside IED.

What are the next steps for the investigation?

The UN is pushing for national authorities to take over the prosecution of these cases to ensure criminal accountability for the deaths of the personnel.