KOTA TINGGI: Malaysian peacekeeping troops in Lebanon remain safe despite recent encounters with the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
The Defence Minister said there had been several incidents in which Malaysian Battalion (Malbatt) 850-13 personnel came across the IDF, but stressed that these were not confrontations.
“There were situations where they encountered each other, but no action was taken by the IDF. We are grateful that no untoward incidents occurred,” he added.
Mohamed Khaled said this in a press conference after officiating JanaVeteran programme held at Teluk Sengat here on Saturday (March 28).
He described the incident between Malbatt and the IDF as recent, adding that instructions have since been issued to prevent any recurrence.
Mohamed Khaled said Malaysian troops in Lebanon have been reminded to remain vigilant at all times given the evolving security situation.
“We are a peacekeeping force. Our role does not involve offensive operations, as stipulated under our mandate,” he said.
Mohamed Khaled noted that Malaysian personnel are deployed under the United Nations (UN) peacekeeping mission, which governs their operations and conduct on the ground.
He said the priority remains the safety and security of all Malaysian troops stationed in the conflict area.
“If necessary, they will remain in bunkers and limit movement to ensure their safety,” he added.
Khaled said Malaysia is bound by UN procedures and cannot unilaterally withdraw its troops without following proper processes.
“We must understand that decisions involving deployment and command fall under the UN once we agree to participate,” he said.
He added that all measures would be taken to safeguard personnel, including suspending certain duties if the situation worsens.
Mohamed Khaled said there are currently more than 500 Malbatt personnel serving in Lebanon under the peacekeeping mission.
