Indonesian House of Representatives Praises Government's Success in Securing the Release of Indonesian Citizens Detained by Israel

Parliamentary Deputy Speaker Sukamta of the PKS faction welcomed the release of Indonesian humanitarian activists who joined Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0, who had been detained by Israel while carrying out an international humanitarian mission for Gaza. He expressed gratitude to the Indonesian Government, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for acting quickly, intensively, and effectively to secure their release.

Sukamta emphasised that the achievement was the result of collaborative efforts across Indonesian state institutions. He noted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ diplomatic engagement, cross-border coordination, and the support provided to Indonesian citizens were crucial in the release process. He also appreciated the involvement of the Indonesian Embassy in various countries, which monitored, communicated, and facilitated throughout the handling of the case. Additionally, he said that the coordination with aviation authorities, immigration, and protection elements for Indonesians functioned well to ensure safe repatriation.

‘We see how the state protects its citizens,’ he said, describing it as evidence of good cooperation among the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Indonesian diplomatic missions abroad, and other related agencies in ensuring the safety of Indonesia’s humanitarian activists.

The PKS representative also offered special thanks to friendly countries, especially Turkey, for assistance during the evacuation and repatriation process. ‘We also thank friendly countries, particularly Turkey, for helping protect and repatriate the humanitarian activists,’ he added.

According to information from Foreign Minister Sugiono, the activists were picked up by Turkish Airlines, brought to Istanbul, and then flown back to Jakarta. Sukamta hopes this incident will strengthen the international community’s commitment to protecting humanitarian workers and halting actions that obstruct aid to the Palestinian people.

‘Humanitarian solidarity for Palestine must not waver. The international community must ensure that aid can be delivered safely and that humanitarian activists are protected,’ he concluded. (H-4)

Nine Indonesian volunteers arrived in Istanbul, Turkey for health checks, visas, and testimonies before being repatriated to Indonesia.