Jusuf Kalla Doubts Prabowo Will Succeed as Iran-US Mediator

Jakarta – Former Vice President Jusuf Kalla (JK) has expressed appreciation for President Prabowo Subianto’s plans to mediate following United States and Israeli strikes on Iran on Saturday, 28 February 2026. However, Kalla expressed doubt about the success of such efforts.

“Yes, the intention is commendable, but this is a situation that is far more complex,” Kalla stated at his residence in Brawijaya Raya Street, South Jakarta, on Sunday, 1 March 2026.

“Even Palestine and Israel cannot be reconciled – it is difficult,” he continued. “The world is determined by the nature of America. We are not even equal to America. How can you reconcile parties that are unequal in negotiations of this kind?” he asserted.

Regarding the conflict’s impact on Indonesia, such as rising oil prices, Kalla said the government should continue to anticipate the global situation despite Indonesia’s geographical distance from the Middle East.

According to Kalla, the government must maintain stability by ensuring justice and balance for the community. He warned that injustice and inequality could trigger social unrest.

“We hope Indonesia, especially the government, conducts fair administration and protects the people by providing good priorities for society, so that what happens in other countries does not occur here,” he said.

Israel struck Tehran on Saturday, 28 February 2026. Following the attack, Israel closed its airspace and declared a state of emergency. According to The Guardian, Israel closed its airspace to anticipate the possibility of Iranian counter-attacks using drones and missiles. An Israeli military spokesperson stated that the strike was a preliminary step to eliminate threats to the country.