KOTA TINGGI: The decision to retain or recall peacekeeping troops in Lebanon, including the Malaysian Battalion (Malbatt) 850-13, lies with the United Nations (UN), says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
The Defence Minister said as the situation in Lebanon escalates, it is no longer aligned with a peacekeeping mission under the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil).
“The purpose of sending our troops to join Unifil in Lebanon was as a peacekeeping force between the conflicting parties, namely Israel and Hezbollah.
“But today, the situation has changed. They are at war with each other and that is not the mandate given to Malbatt or other forces under Unifil,” he told reporters after releasing lobster seeds into Sungai Sedili Besar in Kampung Gembut here yesterday.
There are currently about 600 Malbatt personnel in Lebanon.
Since the troops were deployed as peacekeepers, their equipment and weapons were suited to that role, not for engagement in an active conflict, he added.
“Wisma Putra has requested the UN to review whether the continued presence of these forces is appropriate. We are now waiting for a response from them.
“We will wait for the decision to remain or return,” he said, adding that the decision would be made between the Malaysian government and the UN.
“At the moment, our troops have been instructed to cease all patrol efforts and remain in their bunker,” he added.
Previously, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said Malaysia would request the UN to review the terms of deployment for peacekeeping missions following the worsening security situation in Lebanon.
The peacekeeping mission is scheduled to end at the end of this year, but Malaysia cannot unilaterally withdraw its personnel as the deployment falls under a UN mandate.
Separately, Mohamed Khaled said firm action will be taken following the death of Prebet Muhammad Amirul Raziq Rosafindi in an incident in Bentong, Pahang.
He said any form of violence, misconduct or breach of discipline does not reflect the values, integrity and professionalism upheld by the Armed Forces.
Mohamed Khaled said the ministry would ensure justice is upheld and has instructed the Armed Forces to strengthen discipline and integrity within its ranks through firm action.
“There will be no compromise against any party involved,” he said.
The case is undergoing legal proceedings and will be determined by the courts in accordance with the law, he added.
