Archive: 21 August 2026
Showing 1,101-1,150 of 1,528 articles
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:48 WIB
Video: Forest and Land Fires Threaten Sumatra and Kalimantan, Forestry Businesses on Alert!
The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that the risk of forest and land fires in Sumatra, Java and Kalimantan will peak between August and September 2026. The Indonesian Forestry Entrepreneurs Association (APHI) says the situation was anticipated due to the El Niño Godzilla phenomenon causing a longer dry season. Forestry businesses are implementing security, prevention and control measures in collaboration with plantation companies, including the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI).
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:47 WIB
Mandatory Halal Certification by October 2026, Business Readiness Remains a Challenge
Indonesia's mandatory halal certification for micro and small enterprises, certain products, and imports takes effect by 17 October 2026, yet only around 4 percent of businesses are currently certified. Economist A. Hakam Naja of INDEF argues that certification should be seen as consumer protection and economic opportunity rather than a burden. He calls for accelerated digitalisation, stronger oversight of self-declared certifications, and a reinforced halal ecosystem to position Indonesia as a global halal hub by 2029.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:45 WIB
IDX Monitors Shares of Haji Isam's Company (TEBE) Amid Unusual Market Activity
The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has placed PT Dana Brata Luhur Tbk (TEBE) under Unusual Market Activity (UMA) monitoring following an abnormal share price increase. The stock, owned by Haji Isam, has risen 60.81% over the past month despite a 4.29% decline on the day of the announcement. The IDX emphasised that UMA status does not necessarily indicate a violation of capital market regulations.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:44 WIB
Israeli Hardline Minister Showcases Gallows Site for Palestinian Executions
Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has publicised the construction of a hanging facility designated for Palestinians convicted of terrorism in military courts. The site follows the passage of a law mandating the death penalty for Palestinians, while Jewish extremists remain exempt from the same punishment. The move has drawn renewed international condemnation of the controversial minister.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:44 WIB
Governor Pramono Anung Dispatches Rp442 Million in Baznas (Bazis) DKI Jakarta Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims
The DKI Jakarta provincial government, together with civil servants, regional bodies, municipal enterprises and business partners, has channelled humanitarian assistance worth Rp5.85 billion to communities affected by the earthquake in seven districts of East Nusa Tenggara. Of this total, Baznas (Bazis) DKI Jakarta and its CSR partner Yummy Bites contributed Rp442.134 million in the form of 671 logistics packages focused on family food needs and nutrition for toddlers. Governor Pramono Anung released the aid at Jakarta City Hall on Thursday, with further fundraising open until 25 August 2026.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:42 WIB
All Flights at Singkawang Airport Cancelled Due to Forest Fire Haze
All flights to and from Singkawang Airport in West Kalimantan were cancelled on Friday due to thick haze from forest and land fires, which reduced visibility below safe operational standards. Super Air Jet has suspended flights until 23 August 2026, while TransNusa is reviewing cancellations on a daily basis. Authorities are monitoring weather, air quality and visibility, and have advised residents to limit outdoor activities and wear masks.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:42 WIB
Karangantu Estuary in Serang Cleaned Up, Shipwrecks Removed
The Karangantu estuary in Serang, Banten, is undergoing dredging and normalisation works to remove decades of accumulated shipwrecks and sediment. The project, led by the Cidanau Ciujung Cidurian River Basin Agency under the Ministry of Public Works, aims to improve flood control and provide safer access for fishing boats. Local fishermen have welcomed the improvements but say the estuary still needs to be deepened by around two metres to prevent vessels running aground.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:42 WIB
Mount Semeru erupts, ash column reaches 800 meters
Mount Semeru in East Java erupted on Friday morning, producing an ash column that reached 800 metres above the summit and drifted southwest. The volcano remains at Level III alert status, with authorities maintaining exclusion zones and warning residents of potential hot clouds, lava avalanches, and lahars along nearby rivers. The eruption follows several earlier events the same morning, underscoring the ongoing volcanic hazard in the area.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:41 WIB
IDstar Drives Cloud and AI Adoption in Indonesia Through Collaboration with Tencent Cloud
Indonesian IT firm IDstar is strengthening its partnership with Tencent Cloud to accelerate enterprise cloud transformation in the country. The collaboration has already seen IDstar act as implementor for a major telecommunications company's cloud migration, deploying nearly 200 IT professionals. The move positions IDstar to expand its cloud migration and managed services offerings for enterprise clients across Indonesia.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:41 WIB
Sjafrie Invites Chinese Armed Forces to Heping Garuda Exercise with TNI
Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has invited China's People's Liberation Army to participate in the Heping Garuda joint exercise with the Indonesian National Armed Forces. The invitation was announced during a joint statement at the Ministry of Defence in Jakarta, signalling deepening defence cooperation between the two nations.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:38 WIB
From Running to Padel, Nu Fit Drives Growth of the Sports Industry
Indonesian sports brand Nu Fit is expanding its presence across multiple sports categories, from running and yoga to the emerging sport of padel. The company has signed an agreement to become the official ball sponsor of Court Social Club, a padel community managed by AHHA Management, and will support its athletes in national and international competitions. Nu Fit aims to position itself as a quality local sports brand that grows alongside Indonesian sports communities.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:37 WIB
Palm Oil Company Concession Sealed with Yellow Lines After Repeated Fires
Indonesia's Ministry of Environment has sealed parts of PT Bintang Harapan Palma's concession in South Sumatra following repeated land and forest fires. Inspections identified two fire sites, including one affecting around 454 hectares, and the ministry is considering administrative, criminal, and civil sanctions.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:35 WIB
Economist: Bullion ecosystem extends gold value chain to the economy
Trimegah Sekuritas Indonesia chief economist Fakhrul Fulvian argues that Indonesia's bullion ecosystem can extend the gold value chain by connecting household gold holdings to financing and economic activity. He estimates that 1,800 tonnes of gold, worth around Rp4,460 trillion, could be partially integrated into the financial system through deposits, collateral and financing schemes. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has asked Pegadaian and Bank Syariah Indonesia to bring 20 percent of that gold into the bullion ecosystem.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:35 WIB
43,805 Indonesian Workers Laid Off, Highest in West Java
Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower recorded 43,805 workers affected by layoffs between January and July 2026. West Java accounted for the largest share, with 8,830 workers, representing about 20.16% of the national total. The data excludes those who resigned, retired, became permanently disabled, or died.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:34 WIB
BRIN finds "kelekak" forests speed tin mine ecosystem recovery
Research by Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) shows that traditional kelekak forests in Bangka Belitung significantly accelerate the ecological recovery of former tin mining pits. The forests supply organic matter that supports microorganisms capable of converting toxic heavy metals into harmless sediment, reducing natural recovery time from centuries to decades. The findings highlight the value of preserving local agroforestry systems for environmental rehabilitation.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:34 WIB
KPK Has Not Named Suspects in Bogor Regency Sting Operation
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has elevated a case involving alleged illegal levies at Bogor Regency's Revenue Agency to the investigation stage but has not yet named any suspects. Investigators secured approximately Rp1.5 billion in cash during the operation. The KPK is using a general investigation warrant while it gathers further evidence to identify responsible parties.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:33 WIB
Commemorating National Customer Day 2026, PLN Energises 1,110,000 VA to Support Property and Tourism Development in Sleman
State electricity company PLN has energised a 1,110,000 VA connection for PT Saraswanti Indoland Development Tbk in Sleman, Yogyakarta, to support the development of hotel and apartment facilities. The move is part of PLN's commitment to reliable electricity supply for the property, tourism, and services sectors. PLN officials said the energisation reflects growing investment and economic activity in the region.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:32 WIB
Why Is the Israeli Military Increasingly Entrenched in Syria?
Israel has expanded its military presence in southern Syria since the fall of the Assad regime, building bases and conducting near-daily incursions into Daraa and Quneitra provinces. Residents report arrests, home demolitions, and confiscation of livestock, while rights groups describe the actions as possible war crimes. The situation has escalated despite stalled US-mediated talks on reviving the 1974 disengagement agreement.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:31 WIB
Sidatapa Bamboo Weaving Crafts Towards Leading Creative Products
Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha is running a youth empowerment programme in Sidatapa Village, Buleleng, to develop bamboo weaving crafts, particularly lantern production. The initiative focuses on capacity building for young people, appropriate technology, design innovation, and branding strategies. The programme aims to strengthen the village's position as a bamboo weaving craft centre while preserving local cultural identity.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:31 WIB
PLN Customers in West Java Can Enjoy 50 Percent Discount on Power Capacity Upgrades
State electricity firm PLN is offering a 50 percent discount on power capacity upgrade fees for customers in West Java through its 'Merdeka Daya' programme, running until 25 August 2026. The promotion applies to low-voltage single-phase customers with initial capacity from 450 VA to 5,500 VA who upgrade to a maximum of 7,700 VA. Customers must be registered before 1 August 2026 and complete a transaction via the PLN Mobile app to receive an e-voucher.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:30 WIB
HATM Private Placement of 868 Million Shares, Buyer Investor Revealed
PT Habco Trans Maritima Tbk (HATM), a shipping and logistics company, has updated its private placement plan to a maximum of 868 million shares, representing 10% of its issued capital. The shares will be acquired by affiliated party Multi Sarana Nasional, increasing its stake from 20.11% to 27.37% without changing control of the company. Proceeds will fund capital expenditure for fleet expansion or bank loan repayments, pending shareholder approval at an extraordinary general meeting.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:30 WIB
Doctor Tifa's Pretrial Motion Dismissed: Judge Rules She Is Already a Defendant
The South Jakarta District Court has dismissed the pretrial motion filed by Tifauzia Tyassuma, known as Doctor Tifa, ruling that she no longer has legal standing because she has already been named a defendant. The judge stated that Tifa should have filed an objection to the re-submission of the indictment in the alleged defamation case concerning President Joko Widodo's diploma, rather than pursuing a pretrial motion. The ruling effectively nullifies her pretrial challenge.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:30 WIB
Viral Expulsion of Foreigners from Ubud Gym: Denpasar Immigration Clarifies Citizenship Issue
Denpasar Immigration is seeking three foreign nationals who went viral after being expelled from a gym in Ubud, Bali, to clarify social media narratives alleging racial or citizenship-based discrimination. Officials stated the dispute stemmed from etiquette issues, and the individuals entered Indonesia on Bulgarian passports despite reportedly claiming Israeli citizenship. The gym owner has denied religious or nationality-based expulsion, attributing the incident to rude behaviour towards staff.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:29 WIB
Chronology of Jeep fire that killed two people on Jagorawi Toll Road
A high-speed Jeep Mercedes-Benz lost control and collided with a trailer truck on the Jagorawi Toll Road in East Jakarta early Friday morning, causing the vehicle to catch fire and killing both occupants. Police have handed the case to the East Jakarta Metro Police traffic accident unit for further investigation and victim identification. The identities of the deceased remain unknown as all personal documents were destroyed in the blaze.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:27 WIB
Chinese Defence Minister Invites Indonesia to Modernise National Defence
Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun expressed satisfaction at returning to Indonesia and highlighted the close friendship between the two nations. He called for strengthened defence cooperation and joint responsibility in maintaining security and development. Dong proposed accelerating the modernisation of national defence to provide stability and certainty in a turbulent world.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:26 WIB
Jakarta Provincial Government Collects Rp5.8 Billion in Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims
The Jakarta Provincial Government has dispatched humanitarian aid worth Rp5.8 billion to communities affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. Governor Pramono Anung personally released the shipment from City Hall, emphasising Jakarta's solidarity with disaster-stricken regions. The aid includes logistics, medical supplies, cash, and a commitment to provide a mobile water treatment plant, with distribution coordinated through the national logistics system.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:25 WIB
Profile and Assets of Unsoed Rector Caught in KPK Sting Operation over New Student Admission Bribery
Akhmad Sodiq, Rector of Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed), was among 14 people detained in a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operation in Purwokerto and Jakarta. The operation relates to alleged payments received by the rector in connection with the new student admission process. Sodiq, who was recently re-appointed for a second term, reported net assets of Rp 3.12 billion in his latest state officials' wealth report.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:25 WIB
ESDM Office: 160 mining companies hold operating permits in Banten
The Banten Energy and Mineral Resources Office has completed an evaluation of 239 mining companies, finding that 160 currently hold valid production operation permits. The office is maintaining strict oversight, with administrative sanctions already issued for violations, and plans to summon permit holders next week to discuss operational hour compliance. It also intends to reopen the mining permit moratorium to curb illegal mining, following the closure of 33 illegal sites with provincial police.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:25 WIB
National Police Chief Leads Police Day of Struggle Ceremony, Ignites Spirit to Advance the Nation
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo led the 2026 Police Day of Struggle ceremony in Surabaya, marking the 81st anniversary of the historic Police Proclamation of 21 August 1945. He called on all personnel to uphold the values of courage, devotion, loyalty and integrity inherited from their predecessors. The ceremony underscored the police force's strategic role in maintaining security and stability as a foundation for economic growth and national progress.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:24 WIB
Viral Video Shows Motorcyclist Choking Driver in South Jakarta, Police Investigate
A video showing a motorcyclist choking a car driver in Jagakarsa, South Jakarta, has gone viral, prompting a police investigation. The altercation reportedly began after the driver honked at the motorcyclist who was attempting to overtake. Police have confirmed the driver sustained bruises and chest pain and are working to identify the suspect.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:23 WIB
BSP Strengthens Transformation, Operational Reliability and Business Resilience through BCMS
PT Bumi Siak Pusako (BSP) is reinforcing its corporate transformation agenda by enhancing governance, operational reliability and business resilience through a Business Continuity Management System (BCMS). The company held a three-day workshop in Pekanbaru to develop business impact analyses, risk assessments and continuity strategies. The initiative aims to support production growth in the Coastal Plains and Pekanbaru working area while contributing to national energy security.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:22 WIB
Pekalongan Prosecutor's Office Detains 4 PDAM Tirtayasa Officials, Losses of Rp2.7 Billion
The Pekalongan District Prosecutor's Office has detained four current and former officials of the municipal water company Perumda PDAM Tirtayasa over alleged corruption in procurement of goods and services for the 2022–2023 fiscal year. The suspects are accused of causing state losses of approximately Rp2.7 billion through fictitious procurement and falsified vehicle maintenance vouchers. The new company director has assured the public that water services will continue uninterrupted.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:21 WIB
MV Ocean Porter Seized in Riau Islands Carrying 2.6 Tonnes of Liquid Narcotics
Indonesian authorities have seized the cargo vessel MV Ocean Porter in the waters off Tanjung Balai Karimun, Riau Islands, after intercepting it with 2.6 tonnes of liquid narcotics and millions of illegal cigarettes on board. The joint operation involving the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), Customs and Excise, and Riau Islands Police took place on 17 August as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day security efforts. Ten Myanmar nationals have been detained as the vessel is held as evidence at the Customs dock in Batam.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:20 WIB
Indonesia Seeks to Boost Creative Economy Through Open Network
Indonesia's Ministry of Creative Economy is partnering with the Indonesia Open Network (ION) to strengthen the competitiveness of local creators through digital market access, cross-border trade, financing, and intellectual property protection. The initiative is expected to support a sector projected to attract IDR 183 trillion in investment and employ over 27 million workers. A joint task force will be formed to build the capacity of business actors and coordinate implementation across regions.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:20 WIB
Mayor Discusses BPJS and Stunting, Urges Companies to Help Residents
Bontang Mayor Neni Moerniaeni has called on corporations to help address pressing social and health challenges in the city, including a 16.5% arrears rate for independent BPJS KIS premiums and efforts to reduce stunting. Speaking at the TJSLP Award 2025, she announced the local government will write to companies requesting targeted assistance for residents struggling to pay their health insurance contributions. The mayor also highlighted progress in reducing stunting from 19.8% to around 14%, with a target of below 10%.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:19 WIB
Huawei Unveils Upgraded Xinghe Intelligent Network Under the "Secure and Intelligent Connectivity" Philosophy
Huawei has launched an upgraded Xinghe Intelligent Network Solution aimed at addressing the network stability and security challenges posed by the rapid adoption of AI agents across Asia-Pacific. The solution introduces intelligence and security upgrades across data centre fabrics, WANs, campus networks, and network security, with features such as AI-driven fault analysis, quantum security boards, and autonomous network operations. Huawei positions the offering as a foundational connectivity platform for enterprises in the Agentic AI era, targeting sectors including government, finance, and internet services.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:19 WIB
House Commission XII pushes for presidential regulation on tin to resolve Bangka Belitung impasse
House of Representatives Commission XII is urging the government to issue a presidential regulation that would grant state-owned PT Timah temporary legal authority to purchase tin from local miners in Bangka Belitung. The move is intended to address a production quota shortfall and prevent a resurgence of tin smuggling amid economic stagnation on Belitung Island. The government has already agreed to allow PT Timah to buy community tin as an interim measure while a dedicated tin regulation is being drafted.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:19 WIB
All flights at Singkawang Airport suspended due to thick haze
All flights to and from Singkawang Airport in West Kalimantan were suspended on Friday due to thick haze that reduced visibility below safe operational limits. Super Air Jet has cancelled flights until 23 August 2026, while TransNusa is reviewing cancellations on a daily basis. Authorities are monitoring weather, air quality and visibility, and have advised residents to limit outdoor activities and wear masks.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:19 WIB
Barantin suspends 19 swiftlet nest companies for export violations
Indonesia's quarantine agency has suspended 19 swiftlet nest exporters for failing to meet quality standards required for shipments to China. The sanctions target companies found using chemical additives to whiten products, with some samples showing aluminium levels far above the permitted threshold. The agency stressed the move is a domestic enforcement measure intended to prevent broader restrictions by Chinese customs authorities.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:16 WIB
Police Arrest Two Suspects as Couriers of 93 kg of Cannabis in Medan
Medan police have arrested two men from Aceh suspected of transporting 93 kilograms of dried cannabis intended for distribution in the Tembung area. The arrests followed a pursuit on Jalan AH Nasution and were developed from an earlier raid on a drug den near railway tracks. Authorities are continuing to pursue other identified suspects in the case.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:16 WIB
Video: US Threatens 'Economic War' Sanctions on Iran, Oil Prices Soar
The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) strengthened by 1.68% to 6,501 on Friday morning, with the rupiah also firming against the US dollar. Gold prices remained under pressure due to the Federal Reserve's policy direction and inflation concerns, while oil prices climbed on the back of US threats of economic war against Iran. Market participants are closely watching these developments for further trading signals.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:15 WIB
Government Prepares Rp 31 Trillion to Convert Part-Time PPPK to Full-Time
The Indonesian government has allocated approximately Rp 31 trillion to convert part-time government contract workers (PPPK) to full-time status starting in 2027. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated the funds will be sourced through budget reallocation and disbursed gradually over three years. The policy aims to provide certainty for 231,246 part-time teacher PPPK workers, who will also be given the opportunity to apply for civil servant positions.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:15 WIB
Police investigate fatal car-truck collision on Jagorawi Toll Road
East Jakarta Metropolitan Police are investigating a fatal collision on the Jagorawi Toll Road in which two occupants of a Mercedes-Benz died after their vehicle struck a container truck and caught fire. The accident occurred in the early hours of Friday at kilometre 1.400 A southbound. Authorities are still working to identify the victims and determine the cause of the crash.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:15 WIB
Deputy Hajj Minister: Umrah Pilgrim Funds Turnover Reaches Rp 90 Trillion per Year
Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah estimates that more than three million Indonesians perform umrah annually, generating a fund turnover of approximately Rp 90 trillion per year. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak highlighted the scale of this economic ecosystem while warning of persistent fraud risks, with reports of stranded and deceived pilgrims occurring daily. The ministry is now tracing problematic travel companies for warnings, sanctions, or closure.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:15 WIB
NASA Releases Images of Moon Crater Formed by Elon Musk's Rocket Impact
NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter has captured detailed images of a new crater on the Moon created by the impact of a SpaceX Falcon 9 upper stage. The 18-metre-wide crater was photographed after engineers precisely manoeuvred the orbiter to align its camera with the impact site. The event also served to validate NASA's impact prediction capabilities, with the predicted location proving accurate to within one kilometre.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:13 WIB
Indonesia and FAO launch 2026-2030 sustainable food framework
Indonesia and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization have launched a five-year Country Programming Framework for 2026-2030 aimed at transforming the nation's food and agricultural systems. The framework aligns with Indonesia's medium-term development plan and focuses on sustainability, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and a One Health approach. Officials emphasised a shift towards a two-way partnership, with Indonesia sharing its own innovations and experiences through South-South cooperation.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:13 WIB
Seventh Day After NTT Earthquake, SAR Team Evacuates Two Critical Victims in East Manggarai
On the seventh day of emergency response following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur, the Maumere SAR office evacuated two elderly residents in critical condition from East Manggarai using a Basarnas helicopter. The victims, aged 81 and 71, were flown to Komodo Airport and referred to Pratama Komodo Regional Hospital for intensive care. The operation also delivered presidential aid packages to affected communities.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:12 WIB
Police Reveal Chronology of Alleged Fraud Case Involving Ruben Onsu
Jakarta police have detailed the chronology of an alleged fraud and embezzlement case involving celebrity Ruben Onsu, in which the victim reportedly lost Rp3.5 billion. The victim transferred the funds as investment capital after being offered a business opportunity in February 2025, but the promised returns and principal were never delivered. Ruben has been named a suspect and is expected to be questioned next week.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:12 WIB
FTSE Russell: Definition and Latest August 2026 Review of Indonesian Stocks
FTSE Russell has postponed full index adjustments for Indonesia, including free float increases and new listings, until September 2026. The global index provider acknowledged ongoing monitoring of Indonesian market developments and noted measures by Indonesian authorities to strengthen capital market transparency. The decision affects investor benchmarking and potential foreign fund flows into Indonesian equities.
Fri, 21 Aug 2026, 11:12 WIB
German Chancellor Condemns Israeli Minister Over Call to Kill Palestinians
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has strongly condemned Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir for calling for the targeted killing of Palestinians in Gaza, describing his remarks as inhumane and contrary to international law. German officials and opposition politicians are now calling for sanctions, travel bans, and a halt to arms exports to Israel. Jewish and Protestant leaders in Germany also denounced Ben-Gvir's statements as shameful and an attack on humanity.