Speaking during a press statement in St. Petersburg, Russia, on Wednesday (June 18), Minister Sugiono responded to the outcome of the recent G7 Summit, in which member countries declared that Iran would never be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons.
"We did not expect this situation at all, and their stance has only made things worse. Once a war starts, we do not know when and how it will stop," Sugiono stated.
His remarks came after Iran launched ballistic missiles at Tel Aviv last week, in retaliation for an Israeli airstrike on Iranian soil that killed six nuclear scientists. Commenting on Iran’s retaliatory attacks, Sugiono stressed that civilians affected by violence also have the right to defend themselves.
"Those affected by these attacks are also human beings — they have the right to live and to defend themselves," he emphasized.
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Sugiono reiterated Indonesia’s call for de-escalation and peaceful resolution, saying the Indonesian government is ready to contribute in any way to support peace in the region.
"Indonesia is always ready to contribute to peace, in any way possible," he said.
At the G7 Summit held in Canada, leaders of the seven advanced economies reaffirmed their commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. They expressed strong support for Israel's right to self-defense and stressed the importance of protecting civilians.
"In this context, we affirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel," read the joint statement.
The G7 leaders also called for a broader de-escalation of hostilities, including a ceasefire in Gaza, and pledged to monitor the impact on global energy markets, coordinating with partners to maintain market stability.
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Translator: Mentari Dwi G/Genta Tenri, Resinta S
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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