President Prabowo Subianto on Thursday sought support from Indonesian Islamic clerics over Jakarta’s stance on escalating tensions in the Gulf following recent U.S. and Israeli military strikes on Iran.
Speaking during a meeting at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta, Prabowo said Indonesia’s policies were aimed at safeguarding national unity and sovereignty.
More than 160 clerics, Islamic scholars, leaders of Islamic boarding schools, representatives of Islamic mass organizations, senior figures from the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), and government officials, including members of the Red and White Cabinet, attended the meeting.
Chairman of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) Ahmad Muzani said the gathering was intended to exchange views and share information on recent geopolitical and geoeconomic developments.
"The president explained that all policies taken are for the integrity of the Republic of Indonesia, the unity of the nation, and the sovereignty of the state,” Muzani told reporters after the meeting late Thursday.
He said participants expressed understanding of the president’s position and pledged support and prayers for the government’s efforts.
"They understand that the steps taken by the president are on the right path, and we were asked to continue supporting and praying so that his policies can proceed smoothly,” he said.
The meeting lasted more than three hours, beginning at the time of the breaking of the fast and continuing with a dialogue session from 8:00 p.m. local time until after 11:00 p.m.
Presidential Special Adviser for Hajj Affairs Muhadjir Effendy said Prabowo also explained Indonesia’s involvement in the Board of Peace (BoP), initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump for Gaza.
Muhadjir, a senior figure in the Muhammadiyah Islamic organization, said the president stressed that Indonesia’s participation in the body followed extensive consultations with leaders from Gulf countries.
"The president emphasized that joining the BoP was not a sudden decision. It followed a long process and discussions with leaders in the region, particularly in the Gulf,” Muhadjir said.
He added that Prabowo described the move as a “strategy from within,” aimed at influencing peace efforts in Gaza by engaging directly in the forum.
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Translator: Genta Tenri Mawangi, Maria Cicilia Galuh, Martha H
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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