12-6-2024 (JAKARTA) United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed gratitude to Indonesia’s incoming president, Prabowo Subianto, for his commitment to aid Gaza during a meeting at an aid conference in Jordan on Tuesday. Prabowo, who is set to become president of the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation, has promised to dispatch peacekeeping forces contingent upon a United Nations-backed ceasefire and to promptly increase medical aid.
Blinken congratulated Prabowo, currently serving as Indonesia’s defence minister, on his election victory and discussed the advantages of the US-led ceasefire initiative for both Israelis and Palestinians, according to State Department spokesman Matthew Miller. Blinken acknowledged Indonesia’s support for the ceasefire proposal and its efforts to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza.
During his address at the conference held on the Dead Sea’s shores, Prabowo outlined Indonesia’s readiness to provide medical teams, a field hospital, and a hospital ship to the conflict-ridden Gaza Strip. He also proposed evacuating 1,000 individuals for medical treatment in Indonesia and offering care for traumatised children, with plans to return them to Gaza post-conflict.
“While we are prepared to support and contribute to these efforts, the ultimate resolution lies in a two-state solution,” Prabowo stated. “A two-state solution, ensuring both Palestine and Israel coexist in security and safety, is essential for resolving this issue.”
The United States, a longstanding ally of Indonesia, has advocated for a more significant global role for the Southeast Asian nation, renowned for its religious moderation. However, some US officials have previously questioned Jakarta’s aspirations on the global stage. Despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties with Israel, Indonesia maintains limited interactions, such as trade, and there is cautious optimism from Israeli officials about potential future normalisation.
Previously, the US had denied Prabowo a visa due to allegations of involvement in the abduction of democracy activists during the final days of Suharto’s regime. However, in a sign of changing attitudes, US President Joe Biden has extended his congratulations to Prabowo, signalling a shift in approach.
Indonesia’s proactive stance on the Gaza crisis highlights its growing influence and willingness to engage in international humanitarian efforts, underscoring its commitment to global peace and stability.
