Islamic Figures Applaud Prabowo's Condolence Letter on the Death of Ayatollah Khamenei
Jakarta (ANTARA) — A number of Islamic figures have welcomed President Prabowo Subianto’s expression of condolences on the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which is seen as reflecting humanitarian spirit and Indonesia’s concern for current global geopolitical dynamics.
The appreciation was voiced by several Islamic figures and scholars ahead of and after Prabowo’s iftar gathering at the State Palace in Jakarta on Thursday.
One of those who offered praise was Jimly Asshiddiqie, chairman of the Advisory Council of the Indonesian Muslim Intellectuals Association (ICMI). He said Prabowo’s move to convey condolences to Iran’s government and people was appropriate as it reflected solidarity of a country with a Muslim-majority population.
“It was exactly right that yesterday the President expressed condolences to the whole Iranian people. So I think as the world’s largest Muslim nation, which upholds Pancasila, belief in the One God, and a just and civilised humanity, we cannot accept barbaric killings,” Jimly said.
He added that Indonesia, as the world’s largest Muslim-populated country outside Western Asia, should play a more strategic role in bridging conflicts and tensions among Muslim countries.
In line with this, Yahya Cholil Staquf, chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) Executive Board, said that Prabowo’s expression of condolence was a normal and humane response when such a sorrowful event occurred. But he stressed that what is just as important is real efforts by various parties to stop violence and armed conflicts that continue.
“We have no choice but to fight with all our might for peace. Stop the war, peace now. There is no alternative. Because if not, no one will be saved. This violence must be stopped by any means,” Gus Yahya said.
He also emphasised the importance of utilising the various forums and international cooperation mechanisms Indonesia possesses to push for peace, including Indonesia’s membership of the Board of Peace (BoP) initiated by the United States.
“Look, we are finding ways to use BoP for peace. Whatever is already in our hands, let us use it. If we need to dig a hole, there is no shovel, we dig with a spoon,” he added.
Earlier, on Wednesday (4/3), President Prabowo sent an official condolence letter to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the death of Iran’s supreme leader, reportedly following a military attack by the United States and Israel.
The letter was delivered directly by Foreign Minister Sugiono to Iran’s Ambassador to Indonesia Mohammad Boroujerdi in Jakarta as a diplomatic honour from the Indonesian government.
Through this step, the government conveyed deep empathy to the Iranian government and people for the loss of a figure who has had a major influence on Iran’s political development and the life of Iranian society.
The move also underscored Indonesia’s commitment to maintaining friendly relations and good cooperation between the two countries.