Foreign Minister Soegiono Commends Efforts of Volunteers and Turkish Government

Foreign Minister Soegiono welcomed Indonesian volunteers who were previously kidnapped by Israeli forces. He and the volunteers held a press conference at Soekarno-Hatta Airport on Sunday, 24 May 2026. Addressing the volunteers, the Foreign Minister said, “Welcome back. Enjoy reuniting with your families.”

The Foreign Minister began his statement by thanking various parties for assisting the volunteers’ return. He cited President Prabowo Subianto’s guidance, along with the Global Sumud Flotilla and Global Peace Convoy Indonesia movements. Specifically, he mentioned the governments of Turkey, Egypt, and Jordan.

“Particularly the Turkish government for helping to repatriate volunteers from Ashdod, an Israeli port city,” Soegiono said.

The Foreign Minister then emphasised his appreciation for the volunteers’ efforts, stating this was part of Indonesia’s foreign policy and struggle for Palestine’s rights and a two-state solution.

“I believe you are a tangible manifestation of this effort!” the Foreign Minister said.

The government also condemned Israeli forces’ treatment of the volunteers. Soegiono stated that the violence against them constituted a breach of international law, as the volunteers were civilians delivering humanitarian aid to Palestinians. The condemnation was previously raised at the UN Security Council.

Humanitarian activist Maimun Herawati of Global Peace Convoy Indonesia added that the Global Sumud Flotilla central committee is preparing legal action against Israeli forces for torturing the volunteers. She also urged the public to continue supporting Palestinian independence and humanitarian aid.