Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that the Fijian Government is advising citizens to evacuate areas impacted by rising tensions between Israel and Iran. In a statement to FijiLive, Rabuka reaffirmed the government’s dedication to the safety of its people and peacekeepers engaged in promoting peace in regions experiencing conflict worldwide.
Rabuka remarked that Fijians are aware of the risks associated with involvement in such conflicts. Nevertheless, he affirmed Fiji’s stance regarding the escalating situation in the Middle East.
The Prime Minister described the conflict between Israel and Iran as a bilateral issue, emphasizing that Fiji will continue its commitment to peacekeeping efforts in collaboration with the United Nations in the region. He underscored the importance of respecting territorial integrity as part of the resolutions acknowledged by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon.
He further explained, “Countries withdrew to their internationally recognized boundaries and borders. However, there have been violations of these borders since then, and nations have the right to defend their citizens and their territories.”
Rabuka highlighted Fiji’s long-standing involvement in peacekeeping operations since 1978, asserting that the country will continue its role until the UN decides to withdraw from conflict-affected areas.
He confirmed that Fijian peacekeepers will maintain their presence in these regions, as the government is committed to fostering peace in the Middle East.
In a related development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that Iran will “pay the price” for missile strikes against Israel. The Israeli government is reportedly considering various retaliatory actions, potentially targeting Iranian oil refineries, military bases, or nuclear facilities.
U.S. President Joe Biden has voiced support for Israel’s right to take action but has stressed that any response should be measured and proportional.