Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced that the Government of Fiji has issued evacuation advisories for citizens in areas impacted by escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. In an interview, Rabuka reaffirmed the government’s dedication to safeguarding its citizens and peacekeepers engaged in promoting stability in conflict zones worldwide.
The Prime Minister acknowledged that Fijians are aware of the risks involved in such regions before tensions escalated. However, he reaffirmed Fiji’s ongoing stance on the situation in the Middle East, distinguishing the conflict as a bilateral issue between Israel and Iran. Fiji will continue its peacekeeping efforts with the United Nations in the region.
Rabuka emphasized the importance of respecting territorial integrity as part of the resolution recognized by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. He noted that countries have historically retreated to their internationally recognized borders, but there are instances of violations, and nations have the right to defend their citizens and territories.
Highlighting Fiji’s long-standing involvement in peacekeeping since 1978, Rabuka stated that the nation will persist in this role until the UN withdraws from conflict-affected areas. He confirmed that Fijian service members on-duty will remain in these regions as part of the commitment to maintaining peace.
In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that Iran will “pay the price” in response to missile strikes. The Israeli government is considering various retaliatory actions, including strikes on Iranian oil refineries, military targets, or nuclear sites. U.S. President Joe Biden expressed support for Israel’s right to respond, while stressing that any retaliation must be “proportional.”