Indonesia delays discussions on the Board of Peace amid Iran–US conflict

Jakarta – The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that following the escalation of the conflict between Iran and the United States-Israel this month, Indonesia has decided to suspend discussions related to the Board of Peace (BoP). Spokesperson Yvonne Mewengkang said the move was taken because Indonesia’s attention is currently on monitoring developments in the Middle East conflict and ensuring the safety of Indonesian citizens there. ‘As the Foreign Minister said a few days ago, all discussions with BoP are now suspended or, in other words, on hold,’ Yvonne told a media briefing in Jakarta on Friday. She explained that the government continues to ensure protection for Indonesian nationals in affected areas and focus on preparing anticipatory steps in facing the escalation. Regarding continuity of Indonesia’s participation in the Board of Peace, Yvonne asserted that any decision on participation in various international mechanisms will be based on national interests, an independent foreign policy, and developments on the ground. Earlier, President Prabowo Subianto was said to respect various inputs and criticisms related to proposals that Indonesia suspend or even end its membership in the BoP. ‘The government is not anti-criticism. We listen while observing the situation,’ said Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/Head of the National Land Agency Nusron Wahid when accompanying the President in a meeting with religious leaders and community organisations in the Presidential Palace, Jakarta, Thursday night (5/3). However, the government believes that forums such as the BoP remain an important vehicle to pursue peace. The government’s current position is to make the body part of Indonesia’s diplomatic effort to foster peace in Palestine, he added.