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In a significant deployment, the Indonesian Navy is sending the warship KRI Sultan Iskandar Muda-367 (SIM-367) and 120 personnel to Lebanon for a United Nations peacekeeping mission. The ship, departing from Surabaya, Indonesia, will embark on a journey that includes stops in Batam, Colombo (Sri Lanka), Salalah (Oman), and Port Said (Egypt) before arriving in Beirut in the third week of December 2024.
This mission marks the continuation of Indonesia’s significant commitment to UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon). The SIM-367 will take over from the TNI Konga XXVIII-O UNIFIL Maritime Task Force (MTF), whose deployment concludes in early January 2025. Indonesia is the largest contributor of troops to UNIFIL, with approximately 1,230 personnel currently serving. [[1]]
The deployment comes at a time of heightened tensions in the region. Recently, two indonesian soldiers were injured in an israeli attack but have since returned to duty. [[2]] This underscores the risks faced by peacekeeping forces in Lebanon.
“This ship will carry out a peace mission for 365 days as part of UNIFIL – a multinational mission responsible for maintaining security stability in the region,” stated Colonel Widyo Sasongko, Head of Details Service of the Koarmada II Indonesian Navy.
The departing Indonesian forces received a send-off from Commodore Isswarto, representing the Commander of Koarmada II. Isswarto emphasized the importance of professionalism and international cooperation during the mission.
“You will interact with other countries’ officers, UNIFIL elements, and local communities. Therefore,uphold the values of professionalism,tolerance,and international cooperation,” Isswarto advised the 120 soldiers.
Beyond the MTF, Indonesia also contributes to other UNIFIL units, including ground troops and medical personnel. The Indonesian commitment highlights the nation’s dedication to international peace and security, mirroring similar efforts by the United States in various global peacekeeping operations.
The SIM-367’s voyage will also include an anti-submarine helicopter,further demonstrating Indonesia’s commitment to a comprehensive peacekeeping approach. The mission’s success will be crucial in maintaining stability in a volatile region, a concern that resonates with global security interests, including those of the United states.
The Indonesian Navy’s deployment underscores the ongoing need for international cooperation in maintaining peace and stability in conflict zones worldwide. The mission’s success will be closely watched by the international community.
In a meaningful deployment, the Indonesian Navy is sending the warship KRI Sultan iskandar Muda-367 (SIM-367) to Lebanon for a United Nations peacekeeping mission. This move underscores Indonesia’s commitment to international peace and security, mirroring similar efforts by other nations like the United States in global peacekeeping operations.
A Continued Commitment to UNIFIL
Senior Editor, world-today-news.com: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Salma El Masri. you’re a recognized expert on peacekeeping operations in the Middle East. Could you shed some light on the meaning of Indonesia’s continued involvement with UNIFIL?
dr. Salma El Masri: It’s a pleasure to be here. Indonesia has been a crucial contributor to UNIFIL for many years, consistently demonstrating a commitment to peace and stability in Lebanon. As the largest troop-contributing country to UNIFIL, they play a vital role in maintaining security and assisting the Lebanese government in securing its borders.
A Vital Role in a Volatile Region
Senior Editor: The deployment comes at a time of heightened tensions in the region. Recently, two Indonesian soldiers serving with UNIFIL were injured in an Israeli attack. Can you speak to the dangers these peacekeepers face?
Dr. Salma El Masri: UNIFIL operates in a complex and often volatile habitat. The recent incident involving Indonesian soldiers highlights the very real risks these peacekeepers face. Despite these challenges, they play a crucial role in upholding the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah and mitigating the risk of violence escalating.
Senior Editor: Certainly. This latest deployment consists not just of troops but also includes a warship,the KRI Sultan Iskandar Muda-367. What does this say about Indonesia’s approach to peacekeeping?
Dr. Salma El Masri: It shows a multifaceted commitment.
The inclusion of a warship, along with the 120 personnel, signifies a dedication to a complete peacekeeping approach. This allows UNIFIL to project a presence both on land and at sea, enhancing the overall security environment.
Maintaining Global Stability
Senior Editor: Given the political and security complexities of the region,why is Indonesia’s peacekeeping role so vital on a global scale?
Dr. salma El Masri: The stability of Lebanon has implications far beyond its borders. UNIFIL’s success contributes to regional and even global security by preventing wider conflict. Indonesia’s active participation helps ensure the mission’s effectiveness, directly impacting global stability and geopolitical interests.
Senior Editor: Dr. El Masri, thank you so much for sharing your expertise on this important topic.
