Fiji has received an official invitation from the Israeli Government to consider deploying soldiers to Gaza for peacekeeping duties. This announcement was made by Minister for Defence and Veterans Affairs Pio Tikoduadua during the welcoming ceremony for the first battalion of the Fiji Infantry Regiment, which recently returned from the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI) at Black Rock Camp in Votualevu.
Mr. Tikoduadua emphasized that the decision to send troops to Gaza will not be straightforward, particularly given the ongoing violence in the region. “I want to inform you that we have received an invitation from the Fiji Government to send troops to Gaza,” he stated. He noted that it would require careful consideration from the government and that deploying soldiers is a significant commitment.
While there is no immediate decision, Mr. Tikoduadua expressed confidence in the readiness of Fiji’s troops to undertake such a mission if it is approved. He remarked, “I am not saying that our troops will go, but if it happens for them to be deployed for peacekeeping duties, I know our troops will stand prepared.”
In addition to the focus on potential deployment, the Minister took the opportunity to commend the soldiers for their safe return and encouraged them to reconnect with their families. He also acknowledged the leadership shown during the UNAMI mission, highlighting the vital responsibility leaders have in ensuring the safety and well-being of their personnel during deployments. “It is never easy to lead on tour… I thank our commanders for carrying out that duty with integrity and care,” he concluded, reinforcing the importance of leadership in military operations abroad.
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