KUALA LUMPUR, March 14 — Malaysian peacekeepers serving in southern Lebanon have been confirmed safe after an airstrike by the Israel Defense Forces struck an area close to their observation post early Saturday morning.
According to Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin, the strike occurred at about 2.35am local time, approximately 100 to 200 metres from the base of the Malaysian Battalion (MALBATT) 850-13 peacekeeping contingent.
The airstrike reportedly targeted a bridge crossing the Litani River, a strategic area in southern Lebanon where the Malaysian unit operates as part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
Malaysian Troops Withdraw as Safety Precaution
Officials said a follow-up strike occurred around 3.02am, damaging several facilities and accommodation areas near the observation post.
At the time of the incident, one officer and eight other Malaysian personnel were stationed at the observation post. The MALBATT Tactical Operations Centre immediately ordered the soldiers to withdraw from the area to ensure their safety.
The ministry confirmed that all personnel successfully evacuated and no Malaysian casualties were reported following the airstrike.
Peacekeeping Mission Continues
Malaysia’s MALBATT 850-13 contingent is deployed in Lebanon as part of the UN peacekeeping mission tasked with maintaining stability along the Israel-Lebanon border region.
The Defence Ministry said it is closely monitoring developments in the region through coordination with UNIFIL and international partners to ensure the safety of Malaysian troops stationed overseas.
Despite the nearby airstrike, authorities said the situation involving the Malaysian contingent remains under control and the peacekeeping mission continues as planned.
Rising Tensions in Southern Lebanon
The incident highlights the growing security risks faced by international peacekeepers in southern Lebanon amid escalating regional tensions.
Military activity in the region has increased in recent weeks as cross-border strikes and retaliatory attacks continue to affect areas near UN peacekeeping positions.
Malaysia has repeatedly emphasised that the safety and welfare of Malaysian Armed Forces personnel deployed abroad remain the government’s top priority, particularly those serving in high-risk peacekeeping missions.
