Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji has announced that the government is advising Fijians to evacuate areas impacted by escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. In a response to inquiries, Rabuka emphasized the government’s dedication to the safety of its citizens and peacekeepers who are engaged in promoting peace in conflict zones globally.
Rabuka noted that Fijians were aware of the risks before the situation intensified. He reiterated Fiji’s stance on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, stating that while the tensions between Israel and Iran are bilateral in nature, Fiji will continue its peacekeeping efforts with the United Nations in the region.
The Prime Minister highlighted the necessity of respecting territorial integrity, a principle upheld by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, and mentioned the historical context of countries reverting to internationally recognized borders. Rabuka acknowledged that violations of these boundaries have occurred and that nations possess the right to defend their citizens and territory.
Fiji has a long-standing commitment to peacekeeping since 1978, and Rabuka confirmed that this involvement will persist until the United Nations withdraws from affected regions. He assured that Fijian military personnel would remain in conflict zones, affirming the government’s commitment to maintaining peace in the Middle East.
In related developments, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Iran will ‘pay the price’ for its missile strikes. The Israeli government is considering various retaliatory actions, which may involve attacks on Iranian oil facilities, military installations, or nuclear sites. U.S. President Joe Biden has voiced support for Israel’s right to respond but underscored that any retaliation must be ‘proportional’.