Foreign Minister Welcomes Return of Nine Indonesian Humanitarian Activists, Accuses Israel of Violating International Law

Republika.co.id, Jakarta — Foreign Minister Sugiono stated that nine Indonesian citizens (WNIs) involved in the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 humanitarian mission have returned to the country on Sunday (24 May 2026) afternoon. The nine humanitarian activists were reportedly detained by the Israeli military.

Sugiono said the return of the volunteers was the result of coordination and negotiations by the Indonesian government with several parties. “This afternoon, with gratitude to Allah SWT, the Almighty God, we welcome back our compatriots involved in the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0,” the Foreign Minister said during a press conference after welcoming the Indonesian citizens at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on Sunday (24 May 2026).

He explained that the volunteer group was intercepted and detained on 18 May. Following various efforts, the nine Indonesian citizens were able to return safely to Indonesia. “Alhamdulillah, our compatriots arrived safely in the country this afternoon,” he said.

Sugiono reiterated Indonesia’s condemnation of the detention of the humanitarian volunteers, stating that Israel’s military action constitutes a violation of international law as the volunteers were civilians delivering humanitarian aid to Palestine.

The Foreign Minister also expressed gratitude to various parties who assisted in the release and repatriation of the volunteers, thanking the Indonesian President, the leadership and members of the DPR Commission I, Global Sumud Flotilla, and Global Peace Convoy Indonesia.

Additionally, the Indonesian government appreciated assistance from the governments of Turkey, Jordan, and Egypt in the repatriation process. “We extend special thanks to the governments of Turkey, Jordan, and Egypt, particularly Turkey, which assisted in the pickup of our compatriots from Ashdod,” he said.