Indonesia says Gaza board role not backing Israel
Deputy Foreign Minister Arrmanatha C. Nasir made the remarks during a coordination meeting with the House of Representatives’ Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Agency, or BKSAP, in Jakarta on 19 February.
In a statement released Friday, Nasir said Indonesia’s participation in the board, launched by US President Donald Trump, is aimed at ensuring the country remains engaged in international efforts to promote justice, independence and lasting peace for the Palestinian people.
He told lawmakers that Indonesia’s involvement allows it to influence diplomatic processes related to Gaza while maintaining its constitutional mandate to support Palestinian statehood.
Nasir also briefed parliamentarians on what he described as diplomatic achievements in 2025 and outlined foreign policy priorities for the year ahead, including peace diplomacy, protection of Indonesian citizens overseas and a more active role in addressing global strategic issues.
BKSAP Chairman Syahrul Aidi Maazat underscored the need for the government to adhere to Indonesia’s “free and active” foreign policy doctrine, which emphasises independence in decision-making and participation in global peace efforts.
“It is vital to ensure that Indonesia’s presence in international forums, including the Board of Peace, remains consistent with the Constitution and our long-standing support for Palestinian independence,” he said. “We cannot let our diplomacy lose its moral compass.”
Beyond the Gaza issue, the meeting served as a platform for the Foreign Ministry and the legislature to strengthen coordination on foreign policy initiatives and align priority agendas.
Both sides agreed to intensify information-sharing on strategic developments and expand inter-parliamentary partnerships to bolster Indonesia’s influence abroad.
Officials said closer coordination between the executive branch and parliament is expected to help synchronise diplomatic programmes and advance Indonesia’s national interests while contributing to global peace efforts.