Malbatt can return fire if attacked by Israeli forces: Khaled

PARLIAMENT | The Malaysian Battalion (Malbatt) 850-11 stationed in southern Lebanon can return fire if attacked by Israeli forces, said Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin in the Dewan Rakyat today during the Minister’s Question Time.

Bernama reported him as saying this to Ikmal Hisham Abdul Aziz (PN-Tanah Merah) in the august house.

However, the minister stressed that under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil) safety guidelines, which the Malbatt team observes, they could only do so in self-defence.

Khaled (above) emphasised that the forces are not permitted to engage in offensive actions, as their primary role is that of peacekeepers.

Earlier, the minister assured that the Malaysian forces stationed in southern Lebanon are safe, with no casualties or damage to assets following the recent Israeli attacks on the country.

While acknowledging the increasing threat from Israeli forces, Khaled said the Unifil team has implemented guidelines to ensure the safety of all peacekeeping troops under the mission.

“All forces under Unifil, including the Malbatt team operating in southern Lebanon, have been instructed to cease patrols or logistical movements and remain at their respective posts.

“In consideration of the safety of personnel, Unifil headquarters has also activated protective measures inside bunkers, under established procedures, until the situation stabilises,” he added.

On queries about whether the Malbatt team would be withdrawing, Khaled said such a move would be determined by Unifil and a joint decision of all 50 countries involved in the peacekeeping mission.

“Indonesia, whose soldiers were injured in the Israeli attack, made a statement through its foreign minister on Sept 14 affirming their commitment to continue supporting the peacekeeping mission under Unifil.

“Despite the injuries, their initial response is not to withdraw,” he said.

Since Oct 1, Israel has reportedly launched unprecedented large-scale airstrikes and ground operations in Lebanon.

According to Lebanon’s health ministry, the death toll from Israeli attacks has exceeded 2,300 since the escalation of the conflict.

- Bernama

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