Malaysian Government Condemns Israeli Attack in Lebanon
Background
A devastating explosion near Saida Stadium in Lebanon has left six members of the Malaysian Battalion (Malbatt) 850-12 team injured while en route from Beirut to Camp Marakah. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from the Malaysian government, with Prime Minister’s Office spokesman Fahmi Fadzil describing Israel’s actions as "cruel and unacceptable".
Government Response
The Malaysian government has strongly condemned the Israeli attack, with Fahmi stating that "this cannot be accepted". The Cabinet discussed the incident at a meeting today, with Fahmi also slamming Israel’s repeated strikes on Lebanon since September. The government has reiterated its commitment to sending military personnel under the UN to Lebanon and other countries.
Defence Minister’s Statement
Defence Minister Khaled Nordin revealed that Putrajaya had a backup plan in place in case the situation in southern Lebanon escalates and prompts the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil) to withdraw due to Israel’s aggressive actions. However, for now, Malaysia’s commitment to its UN peacekeeping mission remains unchanged.
Incident Details
The explosion occurred at 1.54pm local time (7.54pm in Malaysia) while the Malbatt team was en route from Beirut to Camp Marakah. One soldier, injured in the hand, is receiving treatment at Hamood Hospital in Saida, while the remaining five, with minor injuries, have safely arrived at Marakah Camp. The cause of the explosion remains unclear, with Defence Minister Khaled stating that it was likely caused by the explosion of a car, although it is unclear whether this was due to a drone or an Israeli fighter jet.
UN Peacekeeping Mission
The first deployment of the Malbatt 850-12 team, consisting of 220 officers and members of other ranks, began on Wednesday and will continue in stages until November 18 as part of their UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon.
Conclusion
The Malaysian government’s swift condemnation of the Israeli attack is a testament to its commitment to upholding international law and protecting the safety of its citizens serving in UN peacekeeping missions. As the situation in Lebanon continues to unfold, it is essential that the international community remains vigilant and demands an end to Israel’s aggressive actions.
FAQs
Q: What was the cause of the explosion that injured six Malbatt members?
A: The cause of the explosion remains unclear, with Defence Minister Khaled stating that it was likely caused by the explosion of a car, although it is unclear whether this was due to a drone or an Israeli fighter jet.
Q: How many Malbatt members were injured in the explosion?
A: Six Malbatt members were confirmed to have sustained injuries in the explosion.
Q: What is the Malaysian government’s response to the incident?
A: The Malaysian government has strongly condemned the Israeli attack, with Prime Minister’s Office spokesman Fahmi Fadzil describing Israel’s actions as "cruel and unacceptable". The government has reiterated its commitment to sending military personnel under the UN to Lebanon and other countries.