JAKARTA, April 4 — The Indonesian government continues to coordinate closely with the United Nations (UN) to ensure the repatriation of three fallen peacekeepers in Lebanon proceeds quickly, safely and smoothly, with the return of their remains expected in the first week of April.
Indonesia’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Umar Hadi noted that repatriation in a conflict situation is challenging but reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a dignified and timely return, as a mark of respect for the fallen soldiers and a fulfilment of the state’s responsibility to their families.
“Under normal conditions, travel from Beirut to Jakarta takes at least 17 hours.
“However, at present, the intensity of armed clashes at various points in the region, including due to the increasing Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon, not only limits movement but also makes every step a matter of safety,” he said in a statement published in Indonesian Foreign Ministry’s website, on Friday.
The three fallen soldiers, Captain Infantry Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, Sergeant Muhammad Nur and Private First Class Farizal Rhomadhon, were killed in attacks on March 29 and 30 while serving under the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
A ceremony to honour the fallen peacekeepers was held on April 2 local time at Rafic Hariri International Airport, led by the UNIFIL Force Commander as a final tribute to their service and dedication to maintaining world peace.
Umar also conveyed the government’s deepest condolences over the loss, noting that their passing has left profound grief not only for their families but also for the entire nation.
“Their service is part of Indonesia’s commitment to maintaining world peace as mandated in the Preamble of the 1945 Constitution.
“The outpouring of condolences and international support for Indonesia is proof of their success in elevating the dignity and standing of the Indonesian nation in the eyes of the world,” he added.
