KUALA LUMPUR: No airstrikes or ground engagements have been reported within the Malaysian Battalion 850 (Malbatt 850) area of responsibility in Lebanon.
Armed Forces chief General Tan Sri Mohamad Ab Rahman said since the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched their attack on Lebanon, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil) has ordered a suspension of all routine patrols.
"However, Malaysian personnel continue to assist in logistical escort missions. No patrol operations will take place until the situation stabilises and further instructions are received from Unifil," he said during a live interview with Buletin Utama today.
When asked about the armed forces' contingency plans if the situation deteriorates further, he said Unifil has developed a comprehensive evacuation strategy,which outlines the procedures for troop withdrawal under three possible scenarios: permissive, non-permissive, and semi-permissive environments.
"Our personnel are highly trained and ready to implement these evacuation plans should the situation demand it, in accordance with Unifil's directives," he said.
For security reasons, Rahman refused to disclose additional details about the safety protocols or the current status of Malaysian personnel on the ground.
He also reiterated that Malaysia's involvement in the peacekeeping activity will remain fully aligned with Unifil's mission, and no unilateral decisions would be made.
Yesterday, the armed forces in a statement, said that six personnel from Malbatt 850-12 and Malbatt 850-11 sustained minor injuries following a strike near Saida Stadium, Lebanon.
The incident occurred as the Malbatt 850-12 convoy was travelling from Beirut to Marakah Camp.
This morning, Rahman said the convoy arrived safely at the camp at 5.30pm local time (11.30pm Malaysian time).
"Alhamdulillah, our convoy safely arrived at 5.30pm local time. All six personnel only sustained minor injuries. They are now resting at the camp," he told the New Straits Times.