Sukamta, Vice Chairman of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), has brought sharp focus to the tragic death of Corporal Rico Pramudia. Corporal Pramudia was an Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) soldier serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeeping mission. He tragically succumbed to his injuries after a month of hospitalization in Beirut, following an artillery projectile explosion in the Adchit Al Qusayr area.
Expressing profound sorrow, Sukamta extended his deepest condolences for the loss of this exemplary TNI soldier, who was dedicated to the UNIFIL mission in Lebanon. He affirmed that this profound sacrifice underscores Indonesia’s unwavering commitment to fostering global peace, a principle enshrined within the nation’s constitution. “We convey our deepest condolences for the passing of the best TNI soldier who was part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mission in Lebanon. This sacrifice is a concrete form of Indonesia’s commitment to maintaining world peace, as mandated by the constitution,” Sukamta told kumparan on Friday (24/4).
Sukamta emphasized that the untimely death of Corporal Rico demands serious attention from all stakeholders, particularly given that the UNIFIL headquarters itself has become a frequent target for conflicting parties.
“This incident must serve as a serious concern for all parties. Attacks occurring within the UNIFIL operational area clearly demonstrate a significant escalation in the on-ground situation, thereby exposing peacekeeping forces to increasingly heightened risks,” he further elaborated.
The Vice Chairman steadfastly stressed that the protection of personnel undertaking UN peacekeeping missions must never be neglected.
“We believe that the protection of UN personnel must be an utmost priority and should not be overlooked by any party, especially amidst the dynamic conflict involving Israel and other regional actors,” Sukamta articulated.
In light of these escalating threats, Sukamta urged the United Nations to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the protection mechanisms and mandate for UNIFIL forces, ensuring they are adequately aligned with the evolving realities on the ground.
He underscored the urgency of this review, stating, “We encourage the United Nations (UN) to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the mandate and protection mechanisms for UNIFIL forces, to align with the evolving threat realities on the ground. Furthermore, transparent and accountable investigative measures are imperative for this incident, to ensure clarity and foster accountability.”
Beyond the United Nations, Sukamta also called upon the Indonesian government to undertake a thorough review of security protocols and troop deployment strategies for its peacekeepers, particularly in the aftermath of Corporal Rico’s tragic demise.
He clarified the scope of this domestic review: “The Indonesian government needs to conduct a comprehensive review of the security aspects, readiness, and deployment patterns of soldiers in peacekeeping missions, without diminishing Indonesia’s commitment as an active contributor to maintaining global stability.”
Sukamta vehemently asserted that the pursuit of global peace should never come at the cost of futile sacrifices, especially from dedicated soldiers serving on the front lines.
He concluded with a solemn reflection, “Every fallen soldier must serve as a poignant reminder that the endeavor to maintain peace necessitates a robust system, adequate protection, and a collective commitment from the entire international community.”
Offering a final tribute, Sukamta added, “May the fallen soldiers find their rightful place with God Almighty, and may their grieving families be granted solace and unwavering strength.”
With Corporal Rico Pramudia’s passing, the total number of Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) soldiers who have tragically lost their lives during peacekeeping missions in Lebanon now stands at four. The other brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice include:
- Posthumous Infantry Major Zulmi Aditya Iskandar
- Posthumous Sergeant First Class Muhammad Nur Ichwan
- Posthumous Corporal Farizal Rhomadhon
Summary
Corporal Rico Pramudia, an Indonesian National Armed Forces (T