The Indonesian military is preparing to deploy more than 700 peacekeepers to the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) later this month. This deployment comes less than two months after Indonesian peacekeeping soldiers were killed by Israeli attacks in the region.
Deployment Amid Rising Tensions
A new batch of at least 742 soldiers is scheduled to depart on May 22 to replace the current group serving in the Garuda Contingent. As of May 1, 2026, Indonesia is the largest contributor of personnel to UNIFIL, providing 748 soldiers out of a total force of approximately 7,400 peacekeepers from 47 countries.
“As one of the largest contributors to UN Peacekeeping Missions, Indonesia continues to uphold its constitutional mandate and independent and active foreign policy in supporting world peace, including through the assignment of the Garuda Contingent Task Force to UNIFIL,” stated Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono.
The Cost of Peacekeeping
The mission has become increasingly perilous, with six UN peacekeepers killed during Israel’s escalating offensive in recent months, four of whom were Indonesians. Jakarta has since demanded a “thorough investigation” into these deaths.
Tensions have escalated since the 2024 invasion of southern Lebanon, during which Israeli troops attacked peacekeeping forces multiple times. In October of that year, two Indonesian soldiers were wounded when Israeli tanks entered the village of Naqoura, the site of UNIFIL headquarters, and opened fire.
A Strategic Dilemma
Aisha Kusumasomantri, a director at the think-tank Indo-Pacific Strategic Intelligence, describes the deployment as a “tough dilemma.” She notes that while Indonesia is committed to international security, the UN peacekeeping operation may lack the capacity to defend itself in South Lebanon.
According to Kusumasomantri, Israel has targeted peacekeepers partly because it blames UNIFIL for allowing Hezbollah to grow into one of the Middle East’s strongest militias. She also suggests Israel is attempting to control the region by destroying infrastructure and replacing indigenous populations with settlers.
Kusumasomantri added that because UNIFIL serves as a witness to events in South Lebanon, the force could potentially testify if Israel is charged with humanitarian law violations.
Future Outlook and Potential Withdrawal
The current UNIFIL mandate is set to conclude at the end of 2026, after which personnel are expected to withdraw gradually. However, the security situation may force an earlier decision.
Honi Hovana, spokesperson at the Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs, stated this week that Indonesia will “consider early troops withdrawal” if the mandate can no longer ensure the protection of its personnel.
While a new mandate could potentially be issued by the UN Security Council, analysts suggest the likelihood is low. Such a development would likely require a “real ceasefire” enforced by the international community, rather than one that is constantly violated.
Currently, the Israeli military continues to conduct daily strikes amid clashes in southern Lebanon, despite a US-mediated ceasefire that was intended to last until May 17.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Indonesian soldiers are being deployed?
Indonesia is deploying a new batch of at least 742 soldiers, scheduled to depart on May 22.
Why has Israel targeted UN peacekeepers in the region?
According to analyst Aisha Kusumasomantri, Tel Aviv partly blames UNIFIL for allowing Hezbollah to grow into one of the strongest militias in the Middle East.
Under what conditions would Indonesia withdraw its troops early?
Indonesia will consider an early withdrawal if the force’s mandate is no longer able to provide adequate protection for its personnel.
Do you believe international peacekeeping forces can remain effective when stationed in active combat zones?
