GSF Volunteers Return to Indonesia as DPR Commission I Deputy Chair Praises Government's Swift Response
Anton Sukartono Suratto, Deputy Chairman of Commission I in the Democratic Party faction of Indonesia’s People’s Representative Council (DPR), praised the government’s diplomatic efforts in facilitating the return of Indonesian nationals who were volunteers with the 2026 Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF). He stated that the government provided consistent support and protection for the citizens throughout the release process.
“Alhamdulillah, we are grateful that the nine Indonesian GSF volunteers previously detained by Israeli authorities have safely returned home. I commend the Indonesian government’s swift diplomatic actions, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its diplomatic missions, for their continuous support and protection from the initial liberation process until their return,” Anton told journalists on Monday, 25 May 2026.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring citizen safety and called for an end to violence and military aggression in Gaza. Anton also quoted Foreign Minister Sugiono, emphasising that citizen safety is a top national priority and Indonesia will consistently advocate humanitarian values and support the Palestinian struggle through international diplomacy.
Anton condemned Israel’s inhumane treatment of GSF activists, urging all parties to uphold international humanitarian law and universal human rights. “We also condemn actions that disregard humanitarian principles and human rights abuses against humanitarian volunteers. Solidarity efforts should be met with approaches that respect international humanitarian law and universal human values,” he added.
It is known that the Indonesian GSF volunteers detained by Israel arrived in Indonesia on Sunday, 24 May, greeted by Foreign Minister Sugiono. The nine Indonesian citizens were arrested when Israeli forces intercepted GSF humanitarian aid ships on Monday, 18 May. The GSF fleet was gradually intercepted, with volunteers detained by Israeli authorities.
All GSF volunteers, including the nine Indonesians, were released on Thursday, 21 May local time and first flew to Turkey on a chartered aircraft before returning to Indonesia. Some detained Indonesians reported inhumane treatment, including physical violence such as being beaten or subjected to electric shocks.
The following is the list of nine Indonesian nationals detained by Israeli forces, according to GPCI reports:
Herman Budianto Sudarson (GPCI - Dompet Dhuafa), aboard Zapyro
Ronggo Wirasanu (GPCI - Dompet Dhuafa), aboard Zapyro
Andi Angga Prasadewa (GPCI - Rumah Zakat), aboard Josef
Asad Aras Muhammad (GPCI - Spirit of Aqso), aboard Kasr-1
Hendro Prasetyo (GPCI - SMART 171), aboard Kasr-1
Bambang Noroyono (Republika), aboard BoraLize
Thoudy Badai Rifan Billah (Republika), aboard Ozgurluk
Andre Prasetyo Nugroho (Tempo), aboard Ozgurluk
Rahendro Herubowo (GPCI and iNews Media Team), aboard Ozgurluk