In Response to Global Tensions, Muhammadiyah's International Relations Institute Urges Strengthening of Indonesian Diplomacy
Jakarta – The Institute of International Relations and Cooperation (LHKI) of the Muhammadiyah Central Leadership believes that Indonesia’s position within the context of global conflict extends beyond merely managing relations with Iran and the United States-Israel alliance; rather, it reflects the constitutional mandate of the nation in conducting an independent and active foreign policy.
Imam Addaruqutni, Chairman of the LHKI’s Central Leadership, stated that Indonesia must properly prepare its diplomatic corps, particularly in strengthening their ability to comprehend global and regional issues in depth.
“I believe Indonesia must properly prepare its diplomats to excel in discourse and understanding global and regional issues,” Imam told Republika.co.id on Monday, 2 March 2026.
He added that diplomats are currently appointed directly by the president. Diplomats and ambassadors are not subordinates of the Foreign Minister; they are state representatives with full authority.
“If President Prabowo truly engages in strategic global issues, then diplomats too must possess a strong global vision,” he stated.
Imam also assessed that the quality of Indonesian diplomats currently falls short compared to the diplomatic generation during President Sukarno’s era, and even during President Suharto’s time. Current diplomats lack excellence in conveying international issue narratives.
Regarding the conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran, he expressed that the entire world regrets this escalation.
According to him, President Prabowo’s proposal to mediate the conflict between the United States and Iran represents a positive step aligned with the spirit of independent and active foreign policy, aimed at promoting peaceful resolution without causing extensive casualties.
“I believe the President, perhaps along with his ministers and the Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs, should clearly communicate to Indonesian society that the president has taken the correct position by not siding with either party,” Imam said.
Imam stated that the President is not biased towards Iran or the United States. Iran is a friendly nation, and other nations are equally friends.
Therefore, he emphasised that President Prabowo’s role must focus more on ensuring that the United States does not excessively position itself as a superpower seeking to dominate all others.
Previously, numerous incidents have occurred, such as Venezuela being attacked for American control. America has also entered other nations, including Iran, whose leader was killed by America.
Imam added that the United Nations has also previously conveyed that the United States violates humanitarian norms.
For this reason, President Prabowo, who currently enjoys good relations on the global stage, is expected to be able to pressure the increasingly aggressive United States and Israel.
“I believe President Prabowo has good relations in global communications; I think he needs to further consolidate his position not just by pressing Iran to be more lenient but rather President Prabowo should also pressure the United States and Israel,” he stated.