RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Growing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have prompted calls in Indonesia for stronger measures to protect its citizens in Lebanon, as concerns rise over the safety of both peacekeepers and civilians in the conflict-prone region.

Lawmaker Yudha Novanza Utama of the Indonesian House of Representatives Commission I urged the government to ensure the safety of Indonesian citizens by anticipating further escalation that could impact them in the area. “The safety of Indonesian citizens abroad must be the state’s top priority, especially amid armed conflict situations that could escalate at any time,” Yudha said in Jakarta on Monday, April 20, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

According to Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there are currently 934 Indonesians in Lebanon, including 756 personnel serving in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and 178 civilians.

He stressed the importance of the government preparing contingency plans to respond to any worsening escalation in Lebanon. The conflict, he noted, not only affects regional stability but also has implications for Indonesia’s role in global peacekeeping missions and the protection of its citizens in conflict zones.

“I appreciate the swift steps taken by the government through the Foreign Ministry and Indonesian representatives abroad in ensuring the safety of our citizens. However, vigilance must be increased given the highly dynamic nature of the conflict,” he said.

Yudha also encouraged Indonesia to remain active in international diplomacy efforts to support de-escalation, including through multilateral forums such as the United Nations. He said that the House's Commission I will continue monitoring developments in Lebanon and ensure the government remains prepared to protect Indonesians amid increasingly complex global conflicts.

“Indonesia must continue to push for peaceful conflict resolution while ensuring that the safety and interests of its citizens remain a priority in every foreign policy decision,” he concluded.

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah continues to drive instability along the Israel-Lebanon border, rooted in longstanding tensions and past wars. Hezbollah, a powerful armed group in Lebanon, opposes Israel, while Israel views the group as a major security threat, leading to periodic clashes and cross-border attacks.

Recent escalations have raised concerns about the safety of civilians and peacekeepers in the region, as well as the risk of a wider conflict. The situation remains volatile, prompting increased international attention and calls for de-escalation to prevent further impact on regional stability. ***