Malaysia’s MALBATT 850-13 suspends operational movements in south Lebanon following fatal attacks on UNIFIL peacekeepers, with security levels enhanced.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Battalion (MALBATT) 850-13 contingent in southern Lebanon has been ordered to suspend all operational movements.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the directive followed UNIFIL headquarters orders after two separate attacks on peacekeepers within 24 hours.
One incident involved a projectile explosion near Adchit Al Qusayr, while an improvised explosive device blast killed three Indonesian UN peacekeepers.
“The incidents have claimed the lives of peacekeepers and caused serious injuries to several others,” Mohamed Khaled said in a statement.
He extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
The minister stressed that any attack on peacekeepers violates international humanitarian law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
Security levels for all contingents in the mission area have now been enhanced.
These measures include strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures and strengthened Rules of Engagement.
They also involve a temporary halt to patrol movements and increased Force Protection measures, with continuous situation assessment.
Mohamed Khaled confirmed all MALBATT 850-13 members are currently safe, with their safety as the government’s top priority.
All assignments are now conducted cautiously based on situational assessments and UNIFIL operational instructions.
