Indonesian officials have indicated that the country may pull out of the US-backed Board of Peace if the initiative fails to make progress on Palestinian independence.
The comments followed President Prabowo Subianto’s two-day consultations with political, religious, and foreign policy leaders to clarify Jakarta’s position and address domestic concerns about its involvement in the board.
After a February 3 meeting with leaders of Islamic organisations at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, Foreign Minister Sugiono stated that Indonesia would leave the Board of Peace if its key objectives—including Palestinian statehood—were not met. “Ultimately, it is the independence and sovereignty of Palestine,” he said, emphasising that Jakarta has set clear benchmarks for the board to promote peace in Gaza following recent Israeli aggression.
The Board of Peace was launched by US President Donald Trump on January 22 during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, with Prabowo signing the charter shortly after. The initiative is intended to address the situation in Gaza but has been suggested for broader conflict mediation by the US.
Mr Sugiono acknowledged that the board is still in its early stages, with details such as its office location and secretariat yet to be finalised.
Over 50 representatives from Indonesia’s major Islamic organisations, including Muhammadiyah, the Indonesian Ulema Council, and Nahdlatul Ulama, attended the discussions at the Presidential Palace. Indonesian Ulema Council vice-chairman Cholil Nafis echoed Prabowo’s stance, saying Jakarta would not be obliged to support board positions that conflict with its own views and is prepared to withdraw if no progress can be made.
Prabowo also met with former foreign ministers and deputy ministers on February 4. Former deputy foreign minister Dino Patti Djalal voiced support for Indonesia’s involvement, describing the Board of Peace as the only viable mechanism currently under discussion to address ongoing violence in Palestine. He cautioned, however, that the board is an experimental platform, not a guaranteed solution, and noted the challenge of Israel’s participation.
“There is no other option on the table. The reality is that the Board of Peace is part of the solution to stop repeated ceasefire violations by Israel,” Dr Dino said, underscoring the delicate balancing act Indonesia faces in advancing Palestinian interests while engaging in international diplomacy.
