Indonesia Mourns Fallen Peacekeepers in Lebanon, Condemns Heinous Attack

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is in mourning following the tragic deaths of three of its peacekeepers serving under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which has sparked strong condemnation from President Prabowo Subianto.

The President emphasized the nation’s collective grief and determination to uphold the values of peace for which the soldiers gave their lives. On Saturday evening, April 4, 2026, he issued a heartfelt statement via his official Instagram account, denouncing the “heinous acts” that claimed the lives of the soldiers.

“We, brothers and sisters of one nation, strongly condemn every vile act that undermines peace and causes the loss of our best soldiers,” he declared, as quoted by Antara, underscoring that Indonesia would honor their sacrifice, ensuring their service is remembered as part of the country’s enduring commitment to global peace.

The fallen soldiers -- Major Inf (Posthumous) Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, Sergeant Major (Posthumous) Muhammad Nur Ichwan, and Corporal (Posthumous) Farizal Rhomadhon -- were part of the Indonesian contingent in UNIFIL, a mission that has operated in southern Lebanon since 1978.

Each was posthumously promoted as a mark of respect, and their remains received full military honors upon arrival at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten.

The solemn repatriation ceremony was led directly by President Prabowo, who stood alongside grieving families as the coffins, draped in the Indonesian flag, were laid out with photographs and floral tributes.

The presence of the soldiers’ widows at the front of the ceremony underscored the personal toll of the tragedy, while the military guard of honor reflected the nation’s collective respect.

Beyond symbolic gestures, tangible support has also been extended to the families. Commander of Military Region IX/Udayana, Major General TNI Piek Budyakto, provided a house, a motorcycle, and additional assistance to the family of Sergeant Major (Posthumous) Muhammad Nur Ichwan, recognizing his service and sacrifice.

“This is a real expression of our care and responsibility toward the families of soldiers who gave their lives for the country,” he stated.

The soldiers’ final journeys were marked by military burials in their respective hometowns. Major Inf (Anumerta) Zulmi Aditya Iskandar was laid to rest at Taman Makam Pahlawan/TMP (Heroes' Memorial Cemetery) Cikutra in Bandung, West Java, Sergeant Major (Posthumous) Muhammad Nur Ichwan at TMP Giri Dhamoloyo II in Magelang, Central Java, and Corporal (Posthumous) Farizal Rhomadhon at TMP Giripeni in Kulonprogo, Yogyakarta.

The ceremonies were attended by local leaders, including Yogyakarta Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, who joined in honoring the fallen at Lanud Adisutjipto Air Force Base.

The tragedy comes amid escalating tensions in southern Lebanon. UNIFIL spokesperson Kandice Ardiel reported that Israeli forces destroyed surveillance cameras facing the UN peacekeepers’ headquarters in Naqoura, raising concerns about the safety of personnel.

Ardiel reminded Israel of its obligation to respect UN facilities and ensure the security of peacekeepers. In a separate statement, she confirmed that three Indonesian peacekeepers were injured -- two seriously -- following a blast near El Adeisse on Friday, April 3.

The broader conflict has exacted a heavy toll. Lebanese authorities report more than 1,400 deaths and over 4,200 injuries since Israel launched air and ground operations in March, despite a ceasefire agreement reached in late 2024.

UNIFIL, which expanded its mandate after the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah, continues to face mounting challenges in its mission to stabilize the region.

President Prabowo’s message resonates beyond mourning. He called on Indonesians to carry forward the spirit of peace and unity, warning against divisions that could weaken national solidarity.

“Let us continue the spirit and determination to safeguard peace and not give space to anyone who seeks to divide our togetherness and harmony,” he urged.

The deaths of Zulmi, Nur Ichwan, and Farizal are a stark reminder of the risks borne by peacekeepers in volatile regions. Yet their sacrifice also highlights Indonesia’s steadfast role in international peace efforts.

As the nation grieves, it reaffirms its commitment to honor their legacy -- not only through ceremonies and promotions, but by sustaining the mission they served: the pursuit of peace in a troubled world. ***