Indonesia The COW News Digital The president of Indonesia has warned that his government could withdraw from the proposed “Board of Peace” initiative for Gaza Strip if it fails to protect Palestinian interests or align with Indonesia’s national priorities.
President Prabowo Subianto made the remarks during a meeting with leaders of several Islamic organizations on Thursday evening, according to an official government statement. The discussion focused on Indonesia’s decision to participate in the peace platform reportedly backed by former U.S. president Donald Trump as part of a broader effort to stabilize Gaza after months of conflict in the region.
Subianto reassured religious and community leaders that Indonesia’s involvement would remain conditional. He emphasized that Jakarta would immediately withdraw from the initiative if it concluded that the platform was not benefiting Palestinians or if it conflicted with Indonesia’s national interests.
“The government will not hesitate to step back if the mission fails to serve Palestinian interests,” the president said, according to the statement. He added that Indonesia’s long-standing support for the Palestinian cause would remain a guiding principle in any international engagement related to Gaza.
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Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, had earlier indicated that it was prepared to contribute security personnel to a possible peace mission in Gaza. Officials suggested that between 5,000 and 8,000 Indonesian troops and police officers could participate in stabilization efforts if the plan moves forward.
However, the proposal has triggered debate within Indonesia. Several policy analysts and religious figures have criticized the government’s decision to join the initiative, arguing that it could undermine the country’s long-standing diplomatic stance supporting Palestinian self-determination.
Some critics also pointed to ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the broader regional conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, warning that Indonesia should avoid becoming entangled in geopolitical disputes.
Earlier, the Indonesian Ulema Council had urged the government to reconsider its involvement in the peace platform, citing concerns over Washington’s role in the regional conflict. The council argued that Indonesia should distance itself from initiatives perceived to be influenced by major power politics.
Meanwhile, leaders of Indonesia’s largest Islamic organizations offered a more cautious view, suggesting that participation in the platform could provide Jakarta with an opportunity to advocate for ceasefire negotiations and humanitarian relief in Gaza.
Indonesia’s foreign minister has also indicated that all activities related to the Board of Peace have been temporarily suspended due to the ongoing regional conflict, leaving the future of the initiative uncertain.
