Conflict in Lebanon: Defence ministry considering options to bring back Malbatt 850-11

ALOR GAJAH: The government has considered two options to bring home over 800 officers and members of the Malbatt 850-11 Battalion currently on a peacekeeping and humanitarian mission in Lebanon.

Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said this follows concerns over the conflicts and unrest occurring in the Middle East.

According to a report from Sinar Harian, he mentioned that the two options include securing prior approval from the United Nations (UN) or Malaysia independently repatriating the battalion.

He added that the Ministry continues to closely monitor the situation in the region through information received from the Malbatt Battalion and the UN.

“The matter has been reported to the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, regarding the latest developments in Lebanon from time to time.

“The Ministry has discussed the risks of unrest in Lebanon since last year and has outlined several plans to bring back the involved personnel,” he stated.

He spoke to reporters after the Handover Ceremony of Rumah Kasih Ihsan Parliament Alor Gajah Keys to Three Recipients in Kampung Kelemak on Monday (Aug 5).

Adly, who is also the Member of Parliament for Alor Gajah, said that if the situation continues to deteriorate, the Ministry would not hesitate to promptly evacuate the Malbatt officers and members without waiting for a decision from the UN.

He noted that this step ensures the safety of the personnel is prioritised by Malaysia.

“For now, the best step is to activate the evacuation plan immediately if the conflict situation in the region worsens,” he added.