Six members of the Malaysian Battalion (Malbatt) were injured in an explosion near Saida Stadium in Lebanon on November 7, 2023, but they are reported safe and currently recuperating at Camp Marakah alongside other battalion members. The Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) Headquarters released a statement confirming that the injured soldiers, part of the Malbatt 850-12 convoy, were traveling from Beirut to Camp Marakah when the incident occurred.
The ATM's statement detailed that the convoy reached Camp Marakah around 5:30 p.m. local time (11:30 p.m. Malaysian time) the same day. Out of the six injured soldiers, five were able to arrive directly at the camp, while one member required immediate medical attention at Hamood Hospital. This individual was discharged by 12:01 a.m. Lebanese time (6:01 a.m. Malaysian time) on November 8, following successful treatment.
According to ATM, follow-up treatment for the injured soldiers will be administered by Malbatt 850’s medical officers at Camp Marakah. The statement assured that the soldiers will return to active duty only after they have fully recovered. ATM highlighted its commitment to the well-being and safety of its personnel, especially while they carry out peacekeeping duties under the United Nations (UN).
This unfortunate incident happened as the Malbatt 850-12 team, comprising 220 officers and other ranks, had recently arrived in Lebanon. They were set to continue Malaysia's long-standing peacekeeping mission in Lebanon as part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The explosion occurred at approximately 7:54 p.m. Malaysian time (1:54 p.m. Lebanese time), adding immediate challenges to the team’s arrival.
UNIFIL has initiated a formal investigation into the explosion. The ATM noted that it will monitor developments closely through its Joint Headquarters (MK AB), ensuring the public receives timely updates on the situation. The ATM’s statement emphasized the Malaysian Armed Forces' commitment to peacekeeping and the safety of its troops during such missions.
Meanwhile, ATM confirmed that the rotation of Malaysian peacekeeping personnel, in line with UNIFIL’s arrangements, will continue as planned. The changeover of Malbatt units between the outgoing Malbatt 850-11 and the incoming Malbatt 850-12 is proceeding without delay. The second group of Malbatt 850-12, consisting of 219 personnel, is expected to depart Malaysia for Lebanon on November 10.
This deployment represents Malaysia's continued dedication to international peacekeeping efforts, a role it has maintained for years under the UN banner. The Malbatt team’s responsibilities include supporting stability in Lebanon and safeguarding the safety of civilians in the region. Malaysia’s involvement in UNIFIL reflects a broader commitment to international security and exemplifies the nation's dedication to peace efforts globally.
While the incident underscores the inherent risks associated with peacekeeping missions, the quick response of the Malbatt medical team and the coordinated support from ATM underscore the resilience and preparedness of Malaysian troops abroad. The mission remains undeterred by the incident, with Malaysia reaffirming its support to the UN’s mission in Lebanon. ATM assured that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure the protection and well-being of Malaysian peacekeepers, enabling them to fulfill their roles in promoting peace and security in the region.
Source: Malay Mail
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