Indonesia Withdraws from Board of Peace, Signals Risk for Palestinian Support

Indonesia has announced its intention to withdraw from the ‘Board of Peace’ established by U.S. President Donald Trump if the platform does not serve the interests of Palestinians. President Prabowo Subianto articulated this position during a government statement issued on Friday, following a meeting with various community leaders.

The board’s formation has sparked criticism, with many local experts and advocacy groups asserting that Indonesia’s involvement undermines its historical support for the Palestinian cause. Concerns have been raised regarding the substantive impact of Indonesia’s proposed contribution of troops for a Gaza stabilization force.

Prabowo reportedly emphasized the need for the board to yield benefits for both Palestinian and Indonesian interests. Hanif Alatas, a representative of the Islamic Brotherhood Front, conveyed that the president made it clear that a withdrawal would occur if the board fails to align with these interests. “The president said that if he sees that there is no longer any benefit for Palestine…and that it is not in line with Indonesia’s national interests, he will withdraw,” Alatas stated.

The Indonesian Ulema Council, a significant clerical authority, has previously called for the nation to exit the board entirely, citing the United States’ involvement in the ongoing conflict surrounding Iran. In contrast, the Nahdlatul Ulama organization posited that Indonesia could utilize its position on the board to advocate for de-escalation in the Middle East. Yahya Cholil Staquf, the group’s chief, suggested that Indonesia might suspend the board’s agenda until constructive dialogue pertaining to de-escalation and peace initiatives is achieved in the region.

Further complicating matters, Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Sugiono previously declared that all discussions related to the Board of Peace have been suspended due to the ongoing conflict. This development indicates significant tensions and the potential for a reassessment of Indonesia’s foreign policy strategies in relation to the Israeli-Palestinian situation.

For more on Indonesia’s diplomatic stance in the Middle East, see an earlier report on Jakarta’s historical support for Palestine here.

Published on 2026-03-06 05:44:00 • By Editorial Desk • Category: International