Israeli Media Highlights Prabowo's 'Free Palestine' Call

Israeli media outlet, The Times of Israel, has highlighted the actions of Indonesian President Prabowo Subiability, who shouted ‘Free Palestine’ during a speech in East Java. The event took place during the centenary commemoration of the Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor Islamic boarding school in Ponorogo.

In its report on Monday (21/09/2026), the media noted that during his speech at Gontor, Prabowo reaffirmed Indonesia’s firm stance regarding the Middle East crisis and the importance of strengthening national power, particularly in relation to the Palestinian people who continue to face pressure from Israel.

“The ongoing attacks against Palestinian citizens must encourage Indonesia to build its national strength,” Prabowo stated, according to the media report.

Concluding the event, the Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia, Abdulfattah A.K. Al-Sattari, presented a keffiyeh to Prabowo as a symbol of respect.

The moment at Gontor drew significant attention from the Israeli media, as it occurred nearly a year after Prabowo concluded his speech at the United Nations General Assembly in New York using the word “Shalom.” The outlet also highlighted Prabowo’s comments regarding Israel during the event.

“The world must recognise, respect, and guarantee the safety and security of Israel,” the report quoted Prabowo as saying. “Only then can we achieve true peace.”

Additionally, The Times of Israel had previously claimed that Prabowo was preparing to visit Israel once a hostage release deal and ceasefire were reached in Gaza last October. However, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a clear denial regarding such travel plans, reaffirming Indonesia’s support for the people of Gaza.