Deputy Defence Minister: Indonesia Remains Safe Amid Middle East Escalation

Jakarta — Indonesia’s Deputy Defence Minister Air Marshal (Retired) Donny Ermawan Taufanto has stated that Indonesia’s situation remains safe despite the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

“Thankfully, our condition in Indonesia remains safe. Unlike the current situation in the Middle East, where people cannot enjoy Ramadan as they do in Indonesia,” Donny said during an Eid al-Fitr bazaar at the Defence Ministry building in Jakarta on Tuesday, 10 March 2026.

According to Donny, this represents a blessing from God that all people should be grateful for.

“Similarly, the Defence Ministry’s Employee Welfare Organisation has initiated this bazaar this year, which is held annually by the organisation. This too is a blessing we should be grateful for,” he explained.

In related developments, Israel conducted airstrikes on Tehran, Iran, on Saturday, 28 February 2026. Following the attack, Israel closed its airspace and declared a state of emergency to anticipate a possible retaliatory strike from Iran involving drones and missiles.

An Israeli military spokesperson stated that the strike was a preliminary measure to eliminate threats to the country. Reports indicate that two explosions were heard in Tehran, with strikes occurring near the office of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, according to US officials and other sources familiar with the operation.

The strikes occurred as the United States deployed a large fleet of fighter jets and naval vessels to the region to pressure Iran into reaching an agreement regarding its nuclear programme.

Iran’s news agencies Tasnim and Fars have confirmed the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, though details of his death have not been disclosed. Following Khamenei’s death, Iran declared 40 days of mourning and seven days of national holidays.