20-9-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) Two vehicles belonging to the Malaysian Battalion 850-11 (Malbatt 850-11), serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil), came under attack from local civilians on Wednesday. The incident, which occurred near Tyre, has raised questions about the safety of peacekeeping forces in the region.
According to a statement released by the Malaysian Armed Forces, the attack involved three officers and seven enlisted personnel who were returning to Camp Marakah after completing a mission at Unifil headquarters in Camp Shama. The peacekeepers, travelling in two Fitted for Radio (FFR) vehicles, encountered an unusual traffic jam on the Tes Road-Burj Al Qibli route.
The situation rapidly escalated when approximately 30 civilians attempted to halt the Malbatt vehicles. In a display of aggression, the group began hurling rocks at the peacekeepers and used sharp objects to puncture the tyres of their vehicles. Faced with this sudden outburst of hostility, the commanding officer made the prudent decision to instruct both vehicles to seek refuge at a safe location and await assistance from the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).
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Angkatan Tentera Malaysia mengesahkan 2 buah kenderaan pasukan Malaysian Batalion 850-11 terbabit dalam insiden tindakan agresif orang awam di Lubnan pada 18 Sept 24.#MALBATT… pic.twitter.com/zg1ffM6btx
— Air Times News Network (@TheAirTimes) September 20, 2024
The LAF’s swift response was crucial in defusing the tense situation. Upon arrival, they successfully managed to calm the crowd and prevent further violence. In a show of cooperation, the LAF coordinated a loader to transport both the damaged vehicles and Malbatt personnel safely back to Camp Marakah.
The Malaysian Armed Forces confirmed that all personnel returned to the camp without injury, although both vehicles sustained damage in the attack. Despite this unsettling incident, Malbatt has affirmed its commitment to continue its routine duties as mandated by Unifil.
This attack on peacekeepers has sparked concern within the international community. It underscores the complex and often volatile environment in which UN peacekeeping missions operate. The incident also highlights the importance of local support and understanding for the presence of international forces in conflict-prone regions.
