Indonesia Urges All Parties in Middle East Conflict to Exercise Restraint

Indonesia has expressed profound concern regarding the escalating conflict in the Middle East region, which continues to expand and trigger mounting casualties. The security situation in the region is deemed increasingly alarming as cross-border attacks persist.

Through an official statement issued on Monday 9 March, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu RI) announced that the government has received various reports from Indonesian representations in the region concerning the deteriorating situation.

“After receiving reports from various Indonesian representations in the Middle East region regarding the increasingly concerning security situation, the Indonesian Government again expresses profound concern over the intensifying and expanding tensions and their impact in the Middle East,” the government statement read.

Indonesia has also called for the cessation of military actions exacerbating the regional situation. The government specifically urged the United States and Israel to halt attacks against Iran.

At the same time, Indonesia called upon Iran to cease strikes targeting neighbouring countries in the Gulf and Middle East region. The nations referenced include the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan.

The Indonesian Government emphasised the importance of all parties adhering to principles of international law in addressing the ongoing conflict.

Indonesia further stressed the obligation of all nations to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other countries.

“Indonesia reiterates the obligation of all parties to uphold the principles of international law, particularly concerning the prohibition of the use of force against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states,” the statement continued.

Additionally, Indonesia encouraged all parties involved in the conflict to exercise maximum restraint and prioritise diplomatic channels.

“Indonesia encourages the parties to exercise maximum restraint, de-escalate tensions, and return to the negotiating table through dialogue and diplomacy,” the government stated.

Amid the ongoing developments, the government also ensured continued monitoring of the condition of Indonesian nationals in the conflict zone.

“The Indonesian Government continues to closely monitor the impact of the conflict on Indonesian nationals in the region and has prepared contingency measures should conditions necessitate repatriation from various countries,” the statement concluded.